Brian Crombie Radio Hour

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, we take on one of the most urgent and defining questions facing Canada today: is the country ready to lead on the global stage—or at risk of falling behind?In Segment 1, Brian is joined by Heather Exner-Pirot of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute to explore whether Canada can finally emerge as a true energy superpower. As geopolitical instability reshapes global energy markets and allies search for reliable, democratic suppliers, Canada appears uniquely positioned to step up. So what's holding us back?The conversation dives into Canada's low-emission energy production, its continued reliance on the United States as a primary customer, and the long-debated failure to build pipeline infrastructure to the West Coast. They also examine how regulatory hurdles—including carbon pricing and clean electricity policies—are influencing investment decisions at a critical moment.But this isn't just about energy. It's about economic growth, global influence, and whether Canada can act strategically in a rapidly changing world.In the closing commentary, Brian reflects on a deeper pattern: why does Canada so often hesitate when opportunity knocks? And what are the real consequences of standing still?Big Question: Is Canada ready to lead—or are we still managing decline?Tune in for a timely, thought-provoking discussion on the decisions that could shape Canada's future for years to come.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, we explore what it really means to communicate, lead, and build meaningful relationships in a world that's getting increasingly transactional.First, Brian sits down with communications coach, author, and leadership advisor Andrea Wojnicki to unpack what separates strong leaders from the rest. They dive into the subtle but critical shifts that elevate leadership communication — from saying less but meaning more, to listening with intention, to building confidence without tipping into arrogance. The conversation also explores practical ways to demonstrate leadership every day and redefines personal branding as something far more intentional: being yourself… on purpose.Then, in a thought-provoking closing commentary, Brian turns to a deeper question: why are we getting worse at connection?As success rises, many people begin treating relationships like strategic decisions — evaluating, optimizing, even “screening” for compatibility. But love and connection don't follow business rules. They require vulnerability, risk, and genuine participation. And in a world obsessed with analysis, we may be losing something essential: the ability to truly know each other.This episode challenges you to rethink both leadership and relationships — and reminds us that real impact starts with real connection.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, we explore how the words we choose — and the effort behind them — can influence everything from national leadership to personal healing.In the first segment, Brian is joined by Patrick Leblond, Associate Professor of Public and International Affairs at the University of Ottawa, to examine the controversy surrounding the Air Canada CEO's resignation. Together, they unpack why this moment goes far beyond politics or “wokeism,” and instead speaks to something more fundamental: respect. The discussion highlights the deep cultural significance of language in Quebec, the expectations placed on leaders in a bilingual country, and why even small efforts to communicate across linguistic lines can carry enormous meaning — especially in times of crisis. In Canada, leadership isn't just about capability; it's about cultural awareness and a willingness to meet people where they are.In the second half, Brian turns to a more intimate conversation with Canadian poet Kathryn MacDonald about her collection The Blue Gate, released during Poetry Month. Centered on a transformative journey to Kenya after the sudden loss of her partner of 39 years, Kathryn's work explores grief, spirituality, and the search for meaning. Through poetry, she captures what often cannot be said outright — holding complexity, emotion, and reflection all at once. The conversation reveals how storytelling, especially in poetic form, creates space for healing and helps us understand life's most difficult moments.At first glance, these topics may seem worlds apart — one rooted in public life, the other deeply personal. But both return to the same essential question: how do we truly hear and understand one another?Because language is more than communication.It's a signal of respect.A keeper of identity.A pathway through loss. And ultimately, a bridge — or a barrier — between us.

Toronto real estate isn't just cooling — it's resetting. On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Darryl Frankfort — developer and host of The Canadian Real Estate Show — for a candid, insider look at what's really happening in the Greater Toronto Area housing market. Darryl breaks down what's driving the current downturn — and why this isn't a typical cycle. From a deep freeze in the condo market to the challenges facing mid-market developments, the conversation explores how years of investor-driven demand, assignment flipping, and financialization have distorted the system. While luxury and boutique projects continue to find footing, the traditional condo model is under pressure — and many smaller investors may now face real losses as the market recalibrates. The discussion also touches on recent policy responses, including tax adjustments and development fee changes. Helpful steps, but not enough to address a deeper issue: The system was built for investors — not end users. Brian then steps back in his closing commentary, The GTA Real Estate Business Needs a Reset, Not a Rescue, arguing this is not just a downturn, but a structural shift — one that demands a fundamentally different approach to housing. Instead of trying to revive the old speculative model, he outlines a path forward: more purpose-built rental, more family-sized housing, better urban design, reduced barriers to construction, and a renewed focus on affordability and livability. Because housing isn't just an asset class — it's infrastructure. And the goal shouldn't be to restart speculation, but to build stronger communities. At its core, this episode asks: If the old model is breaking down… what should replace it?

Are we entering a new chapter in Canada's history — one defined by uncertainty, but also by independence? On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by John Campion — a long-time Liberal strategist and advisor to multiple Prime Ministers — to reflect on what he describes as one of the most significant Liberal conventions in decades. From the recent Montreal convention, John shares insights into a party — and a country — in transition: a new generation of leadership emerging, a growing role for women in Canadian politics, and a renewed focus on economic strength and “Buy Canada” policies. The conversation goes beyond party politics to a broader national shift. A key theme emerges: Canada can no longer rely on the United States in the same way it once did. From trade and defense to geopolitics, the discussion explores what greater self-reliance could mean for Canada, including stronger middle-power alliances and a rethinking of Canada's global role. At the center of this shift is a renewed focus on Arctic sovereignty and emerging global threats. The episode also examines Mark Carney's convention speech — widely described as a defining moment. Direct, urgent, and grounded in global realities, the speech reflected a broader message: Canada must become more independent, more resilient, and more prepared for a changing world. At its core, the conversation raises a larger question: If the global order is shifting… is Canada ready to stand more on its own?

What drives us to explore — and what does it take to step into the unknown? On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores those questions through two very different worlds: space exploration and live performance. In the first conversation, Brian is joined by Eric Brouillet to discuss Space Explorers: THE INFINITE, an immersive experience in Mississauga created in collaboration with NASA. The experience allows participants to step inside the International Space Station, experience life in orbit, and view Earth from a perspective few ever get to see. As humanity prepares for the upcoming Artemis II mission, the conversation reflects on a powerful theme shared by astronauts: Seeing Earth from space changes how you think about everything. In the second conversation, Brian speaks with Lizette Mynhardt, currently starring in Venus in Fur at Canadian Stage. The discussion explores the discipline, emotional range, and vulnerability required for a demanding two-person, 90-minute performance — and what it means to fully inhabit a character on stage. Across both conversations, a shared idea emerges: growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones. Whether in space exploration or live theatre, both worlds demand courage, presence, and a willingness to take risks in unfamiliar territory. At its core, this episode asks a simple question: What changes when we dare to step into the unknown?

Property taxes are rising again — but the bigger question is why, and whether taxpayers are getting the full picture. On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by members of the Applewood Hills and Heights Residents Association Budget Committee — George Tavares, Kim Pines, Athena Tajido, and Mike Harris — who have taken on the rare task of reviewing the 350-page city budget in detail. What they found raises serious concerns about transparency, oversight, and accountability in Mississauga. Residents were told one story about property tax increases — but the underlying numbers suggest a different reality. The discussion explores a reported 25% rise in property taxes over three years, the growing reliance on reserve funds, and whether the full financial picture is being clearly communicated to the public. The conversation also examines the push for an independent Auditor General in Mississauga — a reform supported by residents but ultimately rejected by council. Many other cities use Auditor Generals to improve accountability and identify savings, raising the question of whether internal audits are sufficient on their own. We also look at broader spending pressures, including rising regional costs and a proposed 9.9% increase in policing expenditures through Peel Police. The discussion highlights concerns about duplication, efficiency, and the fact that Mississauga taxpayers fund a large share of regional services without direct control over outcomes. With a municipal election approaching, the debate over fiscal responsibility is intensifying, new candidates are entering the race, and residents are organizing around issues of spending and transparency. At the heart of it all is a simple but important question: Who is accountable for how your money is spent? Because in the end, budgets reflect priorities — and voters ultimately decide what those priorities should be.

Canada prides itself on fairness — but what if fairness is coming at the expense of growth? On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by tax expert Harry Margulies to explore a provocative thesis: Canada may be making policy choices that Sweden addressed long ago. This conversation goes beyond taxes — into productivity, investment, and the long-term health of the Canadian economy. Canada's current tax structure is built around redistribution. However, Harry argues that high income taxes, capital gains taxes, and corporate tax burdens may be discouraging investment and limiting productivity growth. His central point is clear: You can't redistribute what you don't grow. The discussion then turns to the Swedish model, where lower and flatter income taxes, reduced taxes on capital, and higher consumption taxes (VAT) have been used to support growth while maintaining social supports. A key idea emerges: Capital is not the enemy of labour — it is what drives higher wages. Finally, the conversation explores what a similar shift could look like in Canada — including lower corporate and capital gains taxes, paired with a potentially higher GST/HST alongside targeted relief measures. It's a bold and politically challenging idea, but it raises an essential question: Are we optimizing for fairness… or for prosperity? At a time of slowing productivity and increasing global competition, the bigger question becomes unavoidable: Can Canada afford not to rethink its tax system?

For more than 60 years, the United States and Cuba have been locked in conflict — and today, that tension is rising again. On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Mark Entwistle for a deeply informed look at the evolving U.S.–Cuba relationship and what it means for the region and the world. Mark explains how today's tensions are rooted in decades of unresolved history — from the legacy of the Cuban Revolution to long-standing U.S. efforts toward isolation and regime change. In Cuba, however, nationalism and sovereignty continue to shape the response. The discussion then turns to sanctions and economic pressure, including restrictions that function as an oil blockade and their growing humanitarian consequences. Mark raises important questions about the legal and moral foundations of these policies. We then explore Cuba today — a country often misunderstood. While it remains a communist state, it also has a growing private sector and a population increasingly driven by economic frustration rather than ideology. Change, Mark suggests, is more likely to come through economics than politics. The conversation looks ahead to what comes next. Despite rising tensions, the most realistic path may be gradual engagement and negotiation — similar to the 2014 Obama–Castro thaw — focused on pragmatic compromise and limited reform. Finally, we consider Canada's role as a potential diplomatic bridge, supporting Cuba's private sector and working alongside other middle powers to encourage constructive engagement. At the heart of the discussion is a simple but difficult question: After decades of pressure and isolation… is it time for a different strategy?

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian sits down with Ron Duquette, the visionary behind Legends Row — an outdoor museum in Mississauga that honours the individuals who helped shape the city's identity. Located in Celebration Square, Legends Row celebrates 66 inductees across seven categories, recognizing contributions in business, public service, arts, athletics, and community leadership. The conversation begins with the builders of the city — developers like Bruce McLaughlin, Harold Shipp, and Ignat Kaneff — whose vision transformed farmland into one of Canada's fastest-growing urban centres. From there, the focus shifts to culture and identity, highlighting icons like Oscar Peterson and Simu Liu, and exploring how a diverse, immigrant-driven community helped shape Mississauga's unique character. The episode also reflects on leadership and legacy, with insights into influential figures such as Hazel McCallion and Jim Tovey — and what made their impact so lasting. At its core, this conversation asks a bigger question: What kind of legacy are we building today? Because cities aren't just defined by their skyline — but by the people who shape them.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores those questions through storytelling, pilgrimage, and reflection on renewal in a modern world. In the first conversation, Brian speaks with Danyael Halprin about her book A Magical Passover (Starring the Tooth Fairy) — a creative story where traditions meet through imagination. The discussion highlights how storytelling can bridge cultures and understanding, reminding us that meaning often begins with narrative. Brian then speaks with Doug Brien about the Camino de Santiago, the historic pilgrimage route across Camino de Santiago. The Camino becomes a metaphor for life itself — a journey taken step by step, not for speed, but for clarity. Sometimes, the only way forward is to slow down enough to understand what truly matters. In his closing commentary, Brian reflects on two powerful biblical images: the valley of dry bones and the raising of Lazarus. Easter reminds us of miracles and transformation — but in real life, renewal rarely happens all at once. Instead, it unfolds gradually — through reconnection, alignment, and the difficult work of bringing people, ideas, and systems back together. Across geopolitics, business, and real estate, a pattern repeats: we try to solve today's problems with yesterday's thinking, or wait for a single moment to fix everything. But renewal doesn't arrive fully formed. It is built. At its core, this episode asks: In a world searching for quick fixes… what does real renewal actually require?

What if our justice system is solving the wrong problem? On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian sits down with Antonius Clarke of Friends in Toronto Community Services to explore a fundamentally different approach to justice — one rooted in healing, accountability, and community. In Part 1, Antonius introduces the concept of restorative justice — an approach that shifts the focus away from punishment and toward repairing harm. Drawing on Indigenous traditions and international models, including Norway's justice system, the conversation challenges conventional thinking about crime and consequences. Part 2 confronts the deeper issues behind the system. From the overrepresentation of Black and racialized youth to the lasting impacts of colonialism, systemic racism, and poverty, Antonius emphasizes that outcomes cannot change without addressing root causes. In Part 3, the discussion turns to solutions. Through initiatives like the Keep 6 Ambassadors program, his organization is helping youth build pathways forward — through employment readiness, entrepreneurship, and mental well-being support. Because successful reintegration requires more than release — it requires opportunity.Part 4 explores the power of healing circles and community connection, highlighting how rebuilding relationships and providing accessible support can play a critical role in preventing harm and fostering long-term change. Finally, in Part 5, the conversation turns to a broader national reflection on Canada — asking whether the country has truly progressed on issues of race, or simply become more comfortable avoiding difficult conversations. At its core, this episode asks a challenging but necessary question: If the current system isn't reducing harm… is it time to rethink justice entirely?

What's really holding Ontario — and Canada — back? On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores whether the challenge is a lack of ideas or investment — or something deeper: systems that have become too complex to deliver real results. In Part 1, Brian speaks with Eric Lombardi, a self-described “dark horse” in the Ontario Liberal Party leadership election. Lombardi argues that Ontario doesn't suffer from too little government — but from ineffective government. The conversation dives into the structural barriers slowing progress, including overregulation, permitting delays, development charges, and zoning restrictions. Lombardi also outlines his proposal for “down payment mobility insurance” and makes the case that political parties have become too focused on stakeholders rather than citizens. His core message is clear: Ontario has built systems that manage — but no longer build. In Part 2, Brian expands the discussion nationally in his commentary, Abundance, Not Excuses. He argues that this isn't just an Ontario issue — it reflects a broader Canadian shift away from building toward managing complexity. From housing shortages to delayed infrastructure and stalled energy projects, the symptoms are everywhere. Canada, he suggests, has become highly effective at process — but not outcomes. So what's the path forward? A return to abundance: building housing at scale, advancing energy and infrastructure projects, and creating a tax and regulatory environment that supports investment, productivity, and growth. Because ultimately, nations aren't defined by what they regulate — but by what they build.

In this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian Crombie is joined by Marc Dauphin, former emergency room physician and military officer, for a deep dive into the evolving war in Ukraine. The discussion explores Ukraine's shifting battlefield strategy, the rise of drone and AI-driven warfare, and how modern conflict is being transformed in real time. The conversation also examines NATO's role, Canada's defence posture, and the broader geopolitical implications of a prolonged and rapidly changing war. This is not just an update on the war — it's a look at how warfare itself is being rewritten.

In this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by war correspondent and geopolitical analyst Adnan R. Khan for a thought-provoking conversation on what he calls “the illusion of tactical dominance.” While modern militaries are built around precision, technology, and overwhelming force, this discussion challenges a core assumption: that tactical superiority leads to strategic victory. Together, they explore how conflicts in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine reveal a consistent pattern — winning battles does not necessarily mean winning wars. The conversation also dives into the rise of asymmetric warfare, where smaller actors use drones, AI, and adaptability to offset traditional military strength, and why many modern conflicts are evolving into prolonged stalemates rather than decisive outcomes. Finally, the episode examines what this shift means for global strategy, leadership, and Canada's defence posture in an increasingly unpredictable world.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian explores the concept of performance from two powerful angles — elite sport and everyday human health — and what they reveal about long-term success, resilience, and well-being. In the first half of the show, Brian is joined by Jason Dyck, a Canadian coach working with the Norwegian Cycling Federation, for an inside look at Norway's world-leading approach to athletic development. The conversation examines why Norway continues to excel on the global stage — not through early specialization or pressure, but by prioritizing enjoyment, participation, and long-term athlete development. They discuss how sports systems that protect joy and patience often produce stronger, more sustainable elite performance, and what Canada could learn from this model. In the second half, Brian speaks with Anna Sidiropoulos and Carrie Alexander of Core Plus Clinic in Toronto about functional wellness and emerging non-invasive health technologies. The discussion focuses on tools like the Emsella chair for pelvic floor health and Emsculpt Neo for muscle strengthening, fat reduction, and rehabilitation. These innovations sit at the intersection of fitness, recovery, and preventative care, offering new ways to support strength and function across the lifespan. Across both conversations, a common theme emerges: performance — whether in sport or health — is built over time through how we care for the human body. In his closing commentary, Brian expands the idea further to urban design, reflecting on how cities like Toronto could better support human connection and activity. Using examples from global cities and cultural landmarks, he explores how intentional design — from sport systems to healthcare to urban spaces — shapes how people live, perform, and thrive. A wide-ranging episode on performance, purpose, and the systems that shape human potential.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Dr. Dayan Goodenowe, neuroscientist, biotech entrepreneur, and founder of Dr. Goodenowe Restorative Health, for a wide-ranging conversation on brain health, aging, and the future of medicine. At the center of the discussion is a little-known but potentially critical class of molecules called plasmalogens — essential components of cell membranes that play a key role in brain function. Dr. Goodenowe explains how declining levels of plasmalogens may be linked to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, ALS, and dementia, and why this area of research could reshape how we understand cognitive decline. The conversation also explores the evolution from nutritional science to therapeutic development, including efforts to advance plasmalogen-based treatments through regulatory pathways, and the challenges of bringing natural compounds into mainstream medical frameworks. Beyond biochemistry, the discussion turns to a broader critique of modern healthcare systems, with Dr. Goodenowe arguing for a shift from reactive “sick care” toward a more restorative model of health — one focused on prevention, cellular repair, and long-term well-being. The episode also examines the lifestyle foundations of health, including nutrition, muscle strength, purpose, and community, and how these factors interact with emerging science to influence longevity and cognitive resilience. A thought-provoking conversation on what it means to truly restore health — and whether the future of medicine lies in prevention rather than treatment.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Emily Osborne of the Canadian Shield Institute about a growing issue that sits at the intersection of technology, economics, and national security: digital sovereignty. As more of Canada's data — from government systems to private enterprises — is stored on foreign-owned infrastructure, the question becomes increasingly urgent: who really controls that data? The conversation explores the risks tied to reliance on U.S.-based cloud providers, including legal exposure under foreign legislation and the broader implications for security and independence. They also discuss what Canada can do to strengthen its position, from supporting domestic tech companies to investing in sovereign infrastructure and diversifying global partnerships. The role of artificial intelligence adds another layer, highlighting how control over data and AI will shape future economic power. In his closing commentary, Brian reflects on the situation involving Iran, arguing that tactical action without a clear political objective is not true strategy — and questioning where Canada fits in an increasingly complex global landscape. A timely conversation about control, risk, and the future of Canada in a digital world.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Eric Sauvé to examine the escalating conflict involving Iran — and the deeper question of whether military action is being matched with clear political strategy. ⚖️ Part 1 — Tactical Success, Strategic AmbiguityWe explore how early strikes were described as operationally effective, yet raise concerns about the absence of a clearly defined political end state — a core principle in military strategy.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Lisa Baiton to examine Canada's role in a rapidly changing global energy landscape.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Andrew Hendry to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the workforce — and why the most important career skill may still be deeply human.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Colin Robertson to examine Prime Minister Mark Carney's emerging foreign policy vision — sometimes called the “Davos Doctrine.”

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Edward Greenspon to examine whether Canada can reclaim its leadership role in an increasingly fragmented global order.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Mysterion the Mind Reader — Christopher Justin Doyle — one of Canada's leading mentalists and psychological entertainers, seen on America's Got Talent, Canada's Got Talent, and Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Paul Smetanin to examine whether Ontario's housing market is no longer in a normal cycle — but a structural break.

On The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by John Ruffolo to examine what Canada must do to stay competitive in a rapidly changing world. As geopolitical tensions rise and AI accelerates disruption, Canada faces a critical choice: lead or fall behind.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian Crombie sits down with Peter Biro, founder of Democracy Think Tank and Senior Fellow at both the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights and Massey College, to unpack the complex legal, moral, and geopolitical questions surrounding the Iran conflict. From the limits of international law and pre-emptive self-defense to the moral and ideological inconsistencies of modern political discourse, they explore how political language and human rights debates shape perceptions of conflict. They also examine Canada's role in humanitarian intervention and the challenges of applying the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine in today's world. This episode is a thoughtful, in-depth discussion on war, law, ethics, and the difficult decisions nations face in an increasingly complex global landscape.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian Crombie speaks with Professor Michael Albrecht, a technology and energy expert, about a provocative question: Could Canada eventually align more closely with Europe — or even become part of the European Union? They examine shifting geopolitics, trade patterns, NATO's evolving role, and Canada's changing strategic identity. From transatlantic alliances to Canada's global positioning beyond the United States, this episode challenges long-held assumptions and explores how thoughtful conversation across divides can shape a nation's future.

On this International Women's Day, Brian speaks with Professor Jacqueline Murray, PhD, FRSC, FRHistS, University Professor Emerita of History at the University of Guelph, about the fragility of women's rights and the historical forces that shape gender equality. They explore:Historical roots: From biblical texts to Enlightenment philosophy, how ideas about gender shaped legal and social inequality.Milestones and limits: The U.S. Equal Rights Amendment, Canada's 1927 Persons Case, and the gaps these reforms left.Contemporary challenges: Resurgent anti-feminist movements, abortion rights rollbacks, online misogyny, and threats to democratic institutions.Professor Murray emphasizes that rights are not permanent—they are political achievements that require vigilance to maintain.

On this week's Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Carolyn Whitzman, housing researcher and Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto's School of Cities, about Canada's housing crisis and whether homelessness can be eliminated within a generation. They discuss:Government roles: Why federal targets, provincial regulations, and municipal approvals all matter.Supportive housing: Building 50,000 supportive homes per year could end chronic homelessness and save costs compared to emergency responses.True affordability: Why “80% of market rent” isn't enough, and how targeted housing in the right locations is key.Brian also presses on economic viability, approvals, and the capital stack — asking the big question: if housing is essential infrastructure, why isn't it treated that way?

On this week's Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Dr. Patrick James Christian, psychoanalytical anthropologist and former U.S. Army Special Forces officer, about the psychological dimensions of modern conflict and the Ukraine war. They explore:Psychological warfare: How civilian populations are targeted to weaken societal cohesion and morale.Mobilized identity: Russia's recruitment strategies, Ukraine's societal transformation, and the growing role of civilians — including women — in the conflict.Civil society's role: How media, leadership, and communities can either amplify trauma or strengthen resilience in an era of asymmetric warfare.Dr. Christian argues that today's wars are fought not just with weapons, but in minds and societies — making psychological resilience a central front.

On this week's Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Theo Argitis, Senior Vice President at the Business Council of Canada, about Canada's sluggish economic growth and what it will take to reverse stagnation. They explore:Growth and investment: Why business investment is low, productivity is stagnant, and trade tensions are reshaping Canada's economic landscape.Industrial strategy and state capacity: How government intervention, defense spending, and industrial policy could strengthen competitiveness — and what lessons history offers.Political courage: Whether incremental measures are enough or if Canada needs bold, ambitious reforms to boost productivity, attract capital, and secure long-term prosperity.Theo argues that collaboration between business and government is essential for Canada to navigate global economic fragmentation and achieve sustainable growth.

On this week's The Brian Crombie Hour, Friday's show dives into the real, unfiltered world of relationships — far beyond the curated, algorithm-driven version. Part 1 — Folklaur Chevrier on Modern DatingBrian talks with Folklaur Chevrier about navigating romance in today's digital culture. They discuss:The gap between online personas and real-life presenceWhy authenticity can feel risky in a cancel-culture environmentThe evolving role of chivalryPolitics, religion, and finances in dating — and whether avoidance is wiseThe delicate balance men face between strength and vulnerabilityWhat genuine interest really looks likeThis conversation explores boundaries, attraction, respect, and the tension between performance and sincerity in modern connection. Part 2 — Brian Crombie: Rags, Riches & MasculinityBrian reflects on personal moments from a recent business trip — including the birth of his first grandchild, medical uncertainty, a tough argument, and David Szalay's novel Flesh. He asks the hard question: amid career, strategy, and social performance, how much energy do we spend protecting intimacy? Markets fluctuate, status rises and falls, masculinity can be performed — but connection requires humility, honesty, and presence. When the cycles reset, what actually endures?

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Thursday's show takes a hard look at Ontario's housing market — and why what's being called a “slowdown” may actually be a full-scale dislocation. Brian is joined by Richard Lyall, President of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON), to examine the economic consequences of inaction:400,000 Ontarians could be left without homes by 2035$40 billion in GDP and $20 billion in social value are at risk96,000+ jobs across industries are wiped out annually when housing stalls21,000 apprentices are losing hours9,000 experienced site supervisors are exiting earlyThis conversation goes beyond construction, exploring why builder viability math is failing, how inclusionary zoning may be stalling supply, the risk of a permanent skills drain in the trades, and a proposed three-year “circuit breaker” to restart housing without a permanent bailout. Brian closes the show with his six-point plan to address Ontario's housing crisis, tackling policy, jobs, tax reform, and long-term capacity to build. If housing is Ontario's economic engine, what happens when the pipeline freezes? This episode is essential listening for anyone concerned about the province's economy, jobs, and future affordability.

On this episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Wednesday's show dives into two deep questions: Who are you really?And how much of what people see is performance? Part 1 — Dr. Thomas Verny: Navigating PsychotherapyBrian speaks with Dr. Thomas Verny about the complex world of therapy — from Freud and Jung to Gestalt and CBT — and what truly predicts success in psychotherapy. Topics include:How psychological “masks” create a gap between who you are and how you're perceivedThe differences between insight-oriented and short-term cognitive approachesWhy the therapist–patient relationship matters more than the methodRisks posed by unqualified practitioners in an increasingly unregulated fieldIf you've ever wondered how to choose the right therapist — or whether therapy is about symptom relief or unlocking full potential — this conversation offers clarity. Part 2 — Brian Crombie: Charisma or Masks?Brian closes with a commentary examining influencer culture and the myth of “commanding the room.” True charisma isn't dominance — it's alignment. Warmth and competence together build trust; when they don't align, we rely on masks, over-performance, or hyper-relatability. This episode connects therapy, identity, leadership, and presence around one core insight:You don't command a room. You regulate it.

This episode of The Brian Crombie Hour goes deeper than dating.It's about trust.It's about discernment.And it's about what happens when connection and caution collide. Brian is joined by Tracy Lamourie and Dave Parkinson of the John Parkinson Family Foundation to unpack the rising sophistication of romance scams — particularly those targeting seniors around Valentine's Day. From AI-generated fake profiles and cloned voices to cryptocurrency demands and calculated emotional manipulation, the tactics are evolving rapidly. The psychology behind them isn't. And the financial and emotional consequences can be devastating. But this conversation doesn't stop at fraud prevention. In his closing commentary, Brian steps back to examine the broader psychological and cultural impact of living in an era of advanced deception. Caution is necessary. Discernment is strength. But when vigilance hardens into permanent suspicion, we risk shutting down genuine connection along with the scams. How do we protect ourselves without isolating ourselves?How do we build relationships grounded in verification, boundaries, and community — without surrendering warmth or openness? This episode explores the balance modern relationships demand: protection without cynicism. Participation without blindness. Vulnerability managed wisely, not eliminated entirely.Because trust requires caution.But love still requires courage.

This episode of The Brian Crombie Hour moves from personal reflection to economic reality to long-term national strategy. Brian opens with a simple word: ICE.On a recent flight from Toronto to Florida, de-icing caused a delay — a routine Canadian winter inconvenience. But in parts of the United States today, “ICE” means something very different: immigration enforcement, border tensions, and identity politics. Same word. Different national focus. It's a revealing lens into how Canada and the U.S. are processing this political and economic moment in profoundly different ways. In the main interview, Brian is joined by Stephanie Stewart, an American Executive MBA from Indianapolis who has been writing extensively about Canada–U.S. trade relations. They break down the hard numbers behind the headlines: tariffs costing American households up to $1,300 annually, the upcoming USMCA review, the reality that roughly 60% of U.S. crude oil imports come from Canada, and how ongoing volatility is reshaping trust between long-standing allies. This isn't partisan rhetoric — it's economic math. In his closing commentary, Brian steps back to examine what middle power strategy really requires. Countries like Canada face two equal and opposite risks: appeasement without leverage, or rhetorical rupture without capacity. Real sovereignty isn't declared on global stages — it's built through pipelines, ports, LNG terminals, rail corridors, defence commitments, and predictable regulatory systems that mobilize private capital. Speeches generate applause. Infrastructure generates power. If you care about Canada–U.S. relations, trade, immigration politics, and what credible middle power leadership actually looks like, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Join Brian Crombie for a candid and deeply insightful conversation with Camille Lawson, women's health expert, hormone educator, and relationship counselor. Millions of couples experience changes in intimacy during midlife — but few talk about the real drivers:Hormonal shiftsChronic stress and elevated cortisolSleep disruptionChanging sexual desireEmotional misinterpretationIs loss of intimacy always psychological — or sometimes biochemical? Camille explains how fluctuating estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol affect:Mood and anxietyAttachment patternsReactivity and conflictSexual desire and responsivenessEmotional connectionWe dive into how chronic stress alters blood flow, hormones, and sleep — all measurable pathways that directly impact intimacy for both men and women. Relationship Psychology Insights:Spontaneous desire often shifts to responsive desireStress amplifies misinterpretationExhaustion can be mistaken for rejectionHormonal shifts may be mistaken for loss of attractionMidlife doesn't have to mean decline — it can be a recalibration if couples understand what's happening beneath the surface.

Join Brian Crombie for a timely conversation with Jaime Watt, Chairman and Founder of Navigator Ltd. and author of Director's Crisis Playbook. In today's world of instant scrutiny, viral amplification, and relentless stakeholder pressure, crises unfold faster than ever — and boards are increasingly in the spotlight. Jaime shares lessons from decades advising CEOs, boards, and political leaders through high-stakes situations where reputations — and organizations — hang in the balance. We Discuss:Why traditional crisis management doesn't fit boardsModern crises: speed, scrutiny, and skeptical stakeholdersManagement vs. board roles during the first 24 hoursWhy directors should almost never speak publicly during a crisisThe value of pre-established legal and communications relationships