Real Talk

Elizabeth May reversed course on Mark Carney's first budget, ultimately voting in favour of it (helping the Liberals' minority government survive). What went on behind the scenes? The Green Party leader and longtime MP tells us what changed her mind (6:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, a proud made in Alberta solution offering crypto your way. First-time users get 50% off with the exclusive code RYAN50 at https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 41:00 | Corb Lund's fight against Big Coal continues. The country music star tells us why he believes politicians and coal companies are lying to Albertans, and lays out his plan to stop mining in the Eastern Slopes.  1:12:40 | Shout out to Team You Need A BBQ for their perfect score at "the Super Bowl of BBQ" in Kansas City! The Sherwood Park team's first place win at the Royal World Series of BBQ is this week's Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WHEN YOU MAKE A MINIMUM $50 DEPOSIT WITH CODE RYAN50 ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR AT https://playalberta.ca/ 1:16:00 | Jespo sounds off on the closure of a supervised consumption site for inpatients at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. We debrief on Elizabeth May's comments about Pierre Poilievre (1:25:00) and the West Coast tanker ban (1:47:00). Johnny has thoughts on Marjorie Taylor Greene's "turnaround" (1:53:00). Who was the lone vote against releasing the Epstein files (1:55:30)? Did you see the remarkable moment in the Oval Office involving Donald Trump, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and ABC's Mary Bruce (2:01:00)?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  2:14:00 | It's an all-Bill 9 edition of The Flamethrower, as Real Talkers Jill, Erin, Robert, Josef, "Ins Piration," Brian, Karen, and Joe unload hot takes on the UCP invoking the notwithstanding clause to protect bills affecting trans Albertans. The Flamethrower is proudly presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. WHEN YOU VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta's UCP government is going back to the notwithstanding clause for the second time in three weeks, in this case to protect three laws dealing specifically with transgender youth. Supporters of Premier Danielle Smith's strategy with Bill 9 say it ensures parents are involved in major decisions. Critics say it's an attack on rights and protections the LGBTQ2S+ rely on.  9:00 | Dr. Glynnis Lieb and Anna Murphy talk about the very real impacts they expect these laws to have on vulnerable youth in Alberta.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FYREFLY INSTITUTE: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/fyrefly-institute/index.html 42:00 | Rumour has it Alberta and Ottawa are close to a deal that includes a new oil pipeline to the B.C. coast. Arno Kopecky, author of The Oil Man and the Sea, tells us about his four-month sailing expedition through B.C.'s north coast, and lays out opposition PM Mark Carney and Premier Smith can expect once the deal's announced. (Arno jumps back in at 1:26:00 to comment on Angus Reid polling on Canadians' support/opposition re: a new pipeline.) CHECK OUT ARNO'S BOOK: https://douglas-mcintyre.com/products/9781771001076?srsltid=AfmBOooXsUSpgerNAkCSDuQf0pD2Cf3OiJX13RPAqffax9KA2lmHIl5B 1:16:00 | Jespo and Johnny dive into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your takes on what we're hearing.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:31:20 | If you haven't yet checked out The Maligne Range in Jasper, drop everything and head out there! We feature this stunning new distillery in this week's MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  THE MALIGNE RANGE: https://themalignerange.com/ EXPLORE JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:38:00 | We get to more of your comments on new pipelines and the notwithstanding clause. If you missed chiming in live, leave a comment below!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Your holiday plans won't be interrupted by another federal election, as Mark Carney's minority Liberal government survives its third confidence vote in as many weeks, passing the federal budget by a vote of 170-168. We talk to Canada's National Observer lead columnist Max Fawcett (6:20) about the factors at play (including promises made), and where everything goes from here. 38:30 | Max argues Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's pipeline math doesn't add up. We take a quick look at Globe & Mail reporter Carrie Tait's exclusive on "flexibly-participating doctors" who'd work a parallel public/private format.  READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/11/18/opinion/alberta-pipeline-economics-danielle-smith 1:19:15 | Adele was 24 weeks pregnant with identical twins when she was admitted to the Royal Alexandra Hospital's Antepartum Unit. For the next 62 days, amid considerable stress, she found something beautiful. Adele's story is this week's Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.  GIVE TO THE ROYAL ALEX: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ SHARE YOUR ECHO of the ALEX STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Today's the day we'll find out if PM Mark Carney's minority government survives. Will the Liberals be able to find those two votes outside their caucus, or will enough Opposition MPs abstain from voting to allow Carney's minority government survive? Minister Eleanor Olszewski (4:00) tells us where her head's at heading into the vote.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Support the YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign by purchasing a limited-edition bottle of Whisky Rose. Pick them up in person at Hansen Distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton. https://hansendistillery.com/ 32:00 | Supriya Dwivedi's got takes on Grey Cup, the budget vote (37:30), Trump, Epstein, and MTG (51:00), and Wayne Gretzky's recent podcast interview (58:00).  1:00:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Marjorie Taylor Greene story. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:11:00 | Wayne Gretzky (sort of) talks about his friendship with Donald Trump on the 100% Hockey podcast. We get takes from Jespo, Johnny, and Real Talkers in the Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:39:00 | Real Talker Travis (co-host of the 2 and Out CFL Podcast) shares his Positive Reflection after watching his Riders win the 112th Grey Cup in person. Positive Reflections is proudly presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Cam in a Pizzeria says public debates about minimum wage are missing major details, Coreen and Robert have thoughts on our Nov. 12 Brian Lilley interview, Jason has a theory about MP Matt Jeneroux's early retirement, Chris has a message for would-be homebuyers, and Laura says she's willing to go to jail to fight for workers' rights. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Rural Alberta is not backing down. In recent town halls, long-time farmers and landowners jeered senior UCP political staffers pitching the government's plan for cleaning up decades of oil and gas well problems. They see broken trust — and they're demanding real accountability. In this episode, we're joined by Drew Anderson of The Narwhal (3:00), who's been in the thick of this coverage. He'll help us make sense of the divide: the Alberta of tight-knit rural communities, and the Alberta of big-oil power brokers. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL. GET CRYPTO YOUR WAY - ANYTIME, ANYWHERE - WITH MADE-IN-ALBERTA RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 39:00 | Real Talkers have their say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. Jespo shares a personal story about activist Wiebo Ludwig.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 48:30 | We dig into a story that's flying under the radar, but it's hitting a lot of Canadian veterans right where it hurts — literally. Veterans Affairs has quietly rolled out major changes to its coverage of shockwave therapy, a non-invasive treatment many vets say has been the only thing that's actually kept them moving, working, and out of chronic pain. Echelon Wellness CEO Igor Gimelshtein tells us why he thinks VAC is making a mistake.  1:15:45 | Cam in a Pizzeria says public debates about minimum wage are missing major details, Coreen and Robert have thoughts on our Nov. 12 Brian Lilley interview, Jason has a theory about MP Matt Jeneroux's early retirement, Chris has a message for would-be homebuyers, and Laura says she's willing to go to jail to fight for workers' rights. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Many Albertans expected more of a splash from Naheed Nenshi. The leader of Alberta's Official Opposition NDP - formerly the mayor of Calgary - hasn't secured as much of the spotlight as some expected. Look no further than the very first comments in our Real Talk Live Chat the minute this episode started streaming. That's exactly where we begin our conversation with Nenshi (12:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Pick up a bottle of their limited-edition Whisky Rose in support of the YWCA's Rose Campaign. Purchase in person at the distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton.  HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ ROSE CAMPAIGN: https://ywcaofedmonton.org/events/rose-campaign/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 9:00 | Why is the Alberta NDP releasing a campaign video right now? Real Talkers see it here first as we tee up our conversation with Opposition leader Naheed Nenshi. 12:15 | Nenshi talks minimum wage, pipelines, municipalities' relationship with the province, recall legislation, and classroom complexities.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  41:40 | Did you know an Alberta scientist deserves credit for saving literally millions of lives over the past hundred years? Real Talker "Dr. D" shares the story of Dr. James Collip in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WHEN YOU DEPOSIT MINIMUM $50 WITH CODE RYAN50 ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR WEBSITE: https://playalberta.ca/ Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense.  45:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Nenshi interview, including Real Talkers' takes on minimum wage.  48:15 | We heard a lot about "classroom complexities" through the Alberta teachers' strike. What's the right way to invest in and manage complex classrooms? Public School Boards' Association of Alberta president Dennis MacNeil and Kids Included CEO Amber Mack lay it out in a Real Talk Round Table discussion.  PSBAA: https://public-schools.ab.ca/ KIDS INCLUDED: https://www.kidsincluded.ca/ 1:26:45 | Real Talkers share their firsthand experiences with complex classrooms, and we discuss Canada's military recruitment woes based on comments in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:45:00 | What about a MAXIMUM wage in Canada? Let us know what you think - leave a comment below!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Bombshell emails released just moments before we started streaming this episode suggest Donald Trump hasn't exactly been truthful about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and his knowledge of what was going on. Jespo and Johnny open the show with what the emails (released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee) imply, and what remains to be seen.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 33:45 | Sounds like Pierre Poilievre isn't the only federal party leader staring down a caucus revolt. Conservative commentator Brian Lilley dishes on blowback Mark Carney's facing from Liberal MPs unhappy about the direction of Canada's EV mandate. Real Talk feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 57:45 | Brian takes on the Trump/Epstein story, and tells us what he's hearing about Liberal efforts to recruit unhappy Conservative MPs. Plus, in a Real Talk scoop, Brian lays out the real reason* Chris d'Entremont crossed the floor.  *may not actually be the real reason READ BRIAN'S WORK: https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/chris-dentremont-crosses-floor-liberals-politics-over-principle 1:16:30 | Now's the perfect time to shop in Jasper for the perfect Christmas gift! We've got details - including Moonlight Madness on November 21 - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  PLAN YOUR JASPER SHOPPING GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/christmas-in-jasper/ 1:33:00 | Did you see the UCP-branded wreath at the St. Albert Remembrance Day ceremony? It wasn't on Ryan's radar until Real Talkers brought it up in the Live Chat powered by Park Power. What do you think about it? Leave a comment below! SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:35:45 | Real Talker Carmen - a Canadian veteran - says we need to do so much more for those who served in Afghanistan. Jespo reads his email to talk@ryanjespersen.com  WATCH OUR REMEMBRANCE DAY SPECIAL: rtrj.info/111125LestWeForget FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

On this special Remembrance Day edition of Real Talk, we highlight the stories that shape who we are as Canadians. In our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, Lt.-Col. (Ret.) and former MP Laurie Hawn joins us with a lifetime of service and perspective from the cockpit to Parliament Hill (3:00). Randall Purvis, co-founder of No Stone Left Alone, shares the mission that's mobilizing a new generation to honour our fallen. And historian and author Don Levers takes us inside Our Fathers' Footsteps, preserving the voices of those who served so their lessons aren't lost. It's an episode for reflection, gratitude, and hard truths.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Support the YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign by purchasing a limited-edition bottle of Whisky Rose. Pick them up in person at Hansen Distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton. https://hansendistillery.com/ 24:00 | The Royal Alexandra Hospital has played a key role in times of combat through its 125 years. We remember the service of doctors, nurses, and everyday community members in a Remembrance Day edition of Echoes of the Alex.  BE PART OF THE ROYAL ALEX'S LEGACY OF CARE: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ "FORGIVENESS and GRACE" -- OUR INTERVIEW WITH D-DAY VETERAN MARTY JONES: https://www.youtube.com/live/1ioKjRC5kpo NO STONE LEFT ALONE: https://www.nostoneleftalone.ca/ DON LEVERS' BOOKS: https://donleversbooks.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Prime Minister Mark Carney calls pipelines "boring" in front of a Toronto audience, triggering protests from Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre and conservative commentators. What are we to make of such candid speech (25:00)? And what about the Liberal fishing expedition targeting frustrated Conservative MPs (5:30)? We take on the top headlines with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Support the YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign by purchasing a limited-edition bottle of Whisky Rose. Pick them up in person at Hansen Distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton. https://hansendistillery.com/ 43:30 | Supriya gives us her takeaway from Zohran Mamdani's win to become New York City's next mayor, and President Donald Trump's "beautiful" plan to have the Washington Commanders new $3.7B stadium named in his honour.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below or shoot us an email to talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:10:00 | Did you see the story about that ostrich cull in B.C.? Jespo and Johnny check out what Real Talkers have to say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:27:30 | Real Talker Sal shares a thought from the dog park in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Rick from the Sticks draws a line from NYC's new mayor to Alberta separation, Kara's looking for more from Pierre Poilievre, Michael's not so sincere in his "thank you" to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and Anne's waiting for ballroom construction to begin at the Alberta Legislature. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!   FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Another blow to Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives, as longtime Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux announces his resignation. What does this mean for PM Mark Carney's minority government (and the Official Opposition CPC) moving forward? We open this show with a follow up (1:30) on what the Real Talk Rumour Mill reported in our most recent episode. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 8:30 | Alberta's Dr. Ian MacNairn joins us from a Gaza hospital, where he's working in an ER on a PAMA humanitarian mission. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 30:15 | Edify Top 40 Under 40 honourees Stephanie Bach, Sheena Fitzpatrick, and Tracy Barry talk immigration, employment supports, agriculture, heavy industry, and the arts in an insightful and inspiring edition of the Real Talk Round Table.  CHECK OUT EDMONTON'S TOP 40 UNDER 40 CLASS of 2025: https://edifyedmonton.com/ 1:22:30 | Jespo and Johnny circle back on the Jeneroux resignation (and confidence vote implications), the Carney/Smith Grey Cup target for a pipeline announcement (1:33:00), and political rumours around a certain Trailer Park Boy (not really).  1:50:45 | Rick from the Sticks draws a line from NYC's new mayor to Alberta separation, Kara's looking for more from Pierre Poilievre, Michael's not so sincere in his "thank you" to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and Anne's waiting for ballroom construction to begin at the Alberta Legislature. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The Real Talk Rumour Mill reports multiple Conservative MPs are being approached by the Liberals to join MP Chris d'Entremont and cross the floor. Rumours include two prominent Alberta MPs - one of them Conservative, one of them not. What're the chances this strategy saves PM Mark Carney from a nail-biter of a budget vote that could trigger another election? We ask Politico's Mickey Djuric (4:00) about her d'Entremont scoop, then put it all in front of strategists Zain Velji and Puneeta McBryan (11:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ Support YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign to help end violence against women and girls by purchasing a bottle (or case!) of Whisky Rose. All proceeds support the cause. Purchase in person at Hansen Distillery: 17412 111 Avenue // Edmonton, AB. 11:45 | What a story. Puneeta and Zain give us their takes on Zohran Mamdani's mercurial rise to mayor of NYC.  CHECK OUT THE STRATEGISTS LIVE on NOV. 12: https://www.showpass.com/the-strategists-live/ CONNECT WITH PUNEETA: https://www.puneeta.co/ 55:00 | Shout out to filmmaker Jenna Bailey, the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, and the creative crew at University of Lethbridge for making the new film "Brainstorm" a global success! We shine a spotlight on groundbreaking research right here in Alberta in this week's edition of Alberta Wins presented by our friends at Play Alberta. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP: https://playalberta.ca/ MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. 57:30 | Over the past year, there were more than nine thousand 9-1-1 calls relating to domestic violence in Edmonton alone. YWCA of Edmonton's Christine McCourt-Reid tells us why the Rose Campaign is vital to building healthy communities.  THE ROSE CAMPAIGN: https://ywcaofedmonton.org/events/rose-campaign/ 1:14:30 | Real Talker Rick emails in about "Winston Churchill -- the famous floor crosser". Jespo and Johnny get to Live Chat comments about Alberta nurses and health care aides voting 98% in favour of a strike and Indigenous Veterans Day. The Real Talk Live Chat is powered by Park Power.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Mark Carney's first federal budget is out, and it's a bold statement from a Prime Minister trying to prove he's not just the banker-in-chief, but a nation-builder with a plan. Billions are flowing into housing, clean energy, and industry, but does any of this actually benefit Alberta? Is Budget 2025 economic vision — or political survival disguised as one? 4:30 | We set the table by hearing from opposition party leaders Pierre Poilievre, Yves-François Blanchet, and Don Davies. 12:00 | What does this budget do to address economic lags, troubling regional trends, and Canada's housing crunch? Heather Thomson (Edmonton Chamber of Commerce), Kalen Anderson (BILD Edmonton Metro), and Mike Saunders (Qualico) give us the pros and cons of Budget 2025. We dig further into Edmonton Chamber's State of the Economy report.  CHECK OUT THE FULL REPORT: https://economy.edmontonchamber.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  47:15 | There's nothing like a run in the Rockies! The Jasper Rebuild Run (formerly the Pints & Pinot Run) is set to go November 29. What a great way to support this magnificent mountain town! Also, Jasper stays until December 12 are eligible to receive a digital prepaid Mastercard up to $175 with bookings through Tourism Jasper - we've got details.  REGISTER TO RUN: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/98763/rebuild-jasper-run JASPER HOTEL OFFER: https://www.jasper.travel/hotel-offer/ 52:15 | Building Alberta's Talent Future: Shauna Feth (Alberta Chambers of Commerce), Nancy Healy (Commissioner for Employers, Canada), Dr. Melanie Humphreys (Chair, Alberta Post-Secondary Network and President, The King's University), and Sabrina Reschny (Deloitte Canada) dig into Budget 2025 through an Alberta lens.  TALENT DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/ 2025 TALENT DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM: https://www.abchamber.ca/event/2025-talent-development-symposium/ 1:29:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after a jam-packed show, and check in with the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's federal Budget Day - will PM Mark Carney secure enough support outside his Liberal caucus to maintain confidence in his minority government? We open this episode with a look at what's at stake. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ 14:00 | Ontario Premier Doug Ford says you "could put (him) in a stretching rack...he'd never apologize to Donald Trump." This, after PM Carney apologized to President Donald Trump for Ontario's $70M World Series ad featuring Ronald Reagan on tariffs. Do you think Carney should have apologized? Leave a comment below!  32:30 | Alberta's UCP government has denied the Chief Electoral Officer's request for an additional $13M to prepare a referendum on Alberta's future in Canada, and manage recall petitions targeting UCP MLAs. Do you want to see a referendum?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  45:20 | Real Talk has been cc'd on dozens of emails to UCP ministers and MLAs after teachers were ordered back to work. Ryan reads a few from Casey, Sean, Mikelle, and Karen. 52:50 | The Allin family is written into the history of the Royal Alexandra Hospital in a big way. We feature Drs. Edgar Norman, Eardley, and George Allin in this week's Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.  SUPPORT THE ALEX THROUGH ITS NEXT 125 YEARS: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ 57:00 | As New Yorkers elect a new mayor, we look at the dynamics at play between three main candidates, and talk bigger picture about cost of living in North America's major cities (including a cameo by DJ Alize in our Live Chat powered by Park Power).  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:19:10 | Have you been following the infill arson story in Edmonton? We get into what we know at this point.  1:26:20 | Are you a believer in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)? Check out this highlight of David Keith and James Fann from our most recent couple episodes.  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's possible Canadians could be headed BACK to the polls less than eight months after the most recent federal election. It all hinges on whether or not PM Mark Carney can garner enough support for his budget from Conservative, Bloc, or NDP MPs. So, what are the chances?  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 6:00 | Former senior advisor to the PMO Supriya Dwivedi gives us her best guess on how it'll all play out...after we collectively mourn the Blue Jays' World Series game seven loss. We cover Carney's apology to Trump for Doug Ford's TV tariffs ad featuring Ronald Reagan, and Erika Kirk's controversial (?) hug with US vice president J.D. Vance. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 56:00 | Is Carbon capture and storage (CCS) all it's cracked up to be? We follow up our Oct. 31 Real Talk Round Table on energy, climate, and the economy with James Fann from the International CCS Knowledge Centre. CHECK OUT THE CENTRE: https://ccsknowledge.com/ WATCH OUR OCT. 31 ROUND TABLE: https://rtrj.info/103125RTRT 1:31:00 | It feels like all of Canada is feeling the Blue Jays' loss. In a special edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby, Jays' star Ernie Clement reminds us what sports is all about.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talkers are FIRED UP over teachers being ordered back to class. We've got hot takes from Tobias, Travis, Perry, KP, JP, Tavis, Rob, Brandon, Justin, Amy, Shawn, GreeceBall, and Robert in this episode of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Is it possible to protect jobs and save the planet at the same time? Do Canadians have to choose between low emissions and affordable energy? Are we doing enough on energy and water security? How should we prepare communities for a future where extreme weather events are not the exception but the norm? 6:30 | Energy vs. Climate podcast co-hosts Ed Whittingham, Sara Hastings-Simon, and David Keith tackle these questions and more in our Real Talk Round Table presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ ENERGY vs. CLIMATE PODCAST: https://www.energyvsclimate.com/ 1:11:00 | Jespo jumps into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your comments on the economy vs. environment debate.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:15:00 | Real Talkers are FIRED UP over teachers being ordered back to class. We've got hot takes from Tobias, Travis, Perry, KP, JP, Tavis, Rob, Brandon, Justin, Amy, Shawn, GreeceBall, and Robert in this episode of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park.  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's official: we've received more emails and YouTube comments about Alberta's teachers' strike (and the way the UCP ended it) than any other subject in Real Talk's five year history. This is YOUR show, and you've got the floor throughout this episode, including emails from Real Talkers Rodger, Megan, LG, Principal D, Jill, Kyle, Shelley, and Colin.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 16:15 | Political strategist Sharan Kaur analyzes Alberta's use of the notwithstanding clause, and gives us the lay of the land in Ontario, where class sizes are capped and private schools receive no public funding. We take a look at the challenges facing PM Mark Carney ahead of the budget announcement (32:30), and Pierre Poilievre's best play in Opposition. Real Talk's feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 47:15 | Jespo gets to more of your emails and Live Chat comments about education in Alberta.  1:06:30 | Congratulations to Dr. David Wishart, winner of the Gerhard Herzberg Gold Medal for Science and Engineering! We feature the U of A-educated, globally-renowned scientist in Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  Get a $50 free bet with a $50 deposit with the promo code RYAN50 on the Play Alberta app or at https://playalberta.ca/. Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense.  1:10:00 | Is Halloween cancelled in light of Game Six of the World Series? Jespo and Johnny debate the best way to handle such a big schedule conflict, including advice from Real Talkers in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  JOIN JESPO on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 at EVENING OF HOPE in support of HOPE INTERNATIONAL: https://www.hope-international.com/edmonton SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS:  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

740,000 students and 51,000 teachers are back in Alberta classrooms after an emotional three weeks away. In this episode, we hear from politicians, parents, teachers, and a high school student on the true impact of the teachers' strike and the government's use of the notwithstanding clause to end it.  6:20 | Alberta's Minister of Education Demetrios Nicolaides talks about the decision to invoke the notwithstanding clause, and where the government's relationship stands with teachers moving forward. This feature interview, presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, includes email questions from Real Talkers Adam and Rob.  GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com  35:00 | We see where Real Talkers are at on the first day back to school. Real Talk's Live Chat is powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 39:00 | Remember Evan Li - the grade 12 student whose mic was cut during that Alberta Next town hall in Calgary? He tell us how his life changed since that moment, and how he's feeling on the first day after the strike.  49:30 | Real Talker Gillian gives us a frontline report from her junior high classroom. 51:00 | We LOVE the new Jasper Christmas Mug Trail! Such a fun way to support Jasper businesses through the holiday season. Ryan shares details - and highlights upcoming Halloween weekend activities - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  "CREATURES RETURN" HALLOWEEN EVENTS: https://www.jasper.travel/creatures-return/ 55:30 | Nearly half a million Albertans signed the Forever Canadian petition, shattering the already-ambitious goal of 300,000. Organizer Thomas Lukaszuk tells us where the movement goes from here, including his opposition to a referendum.  1:20:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, and dig into the Live Chat.  1:40:30 | Real Talkers Mike, Gerry, and David share their thoughts on Alberta invoking the notwithstanding clause to end the teachers' strike.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Labour leaders are calling it an "act of war," as Premier Danielle Smith invokes the notwithstanding clause, orders teachers back to work, and imposes a four-year collective contract. What's the average Albertan to make of the UCP government's move? Will other unions across the province go on strike to support the teachers? We get into it with political scientist Dr. Duane Bratt (4:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 39:40 | Real Talkers have a LOT to say, as we dive into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power and our email inbox (talk@ryanjespersen.com).  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:07:30 | Did you know the Royal Alexandra Hospital is home to Northern Alberta's only inpatient mental health unit for children and teens? We hear Ashley, Maddie, and Wyatt's story in this week's Echoes of the Alex.  DONATE to the ROYAL ALEX: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ 1:39:20 | Did you stay up to watch the Blue Jays lose to the Dodgers in the bottom of the 18th inning? Jespo has a confession... 1:52:00 | Donald Trump says it'd be "too cute" to run for VP next election. We follow up on our October 27 conversation with Supriya Dwivedi.  WATCH THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/102725Supriya TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Donald Trump says he "doesn't want to talk to Mark Carney anytime soon" after Doug Ford ran World Series ads quoting Ronald Reagan on tariffs. Not only is the Canada-U.S. relationship not improving...it's getting worse, as POTUS announced additional tariffs in response to the ad campaign. So, what now? We ask former senior advisor to the PMO Supriya Dwivedi (4:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ 34:00 | Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry were spotted out and about over the weekend. We spend the obligatory two minutes talking about how they deserve their privacy (ha).  38:00 | Several thousand Alberta separatists gathered on the Legislature grounds over the weekend. What do you make of the movement?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:00:30 | Alberta's public sector workers will be 100% back in the office starting in February. Real Talker Russ tells us how working from home actually benefits his employer.  1:18:30 | Real Talker Nejolla takes us behind the scenes of the mayoral vote count following Edmonton's rocky municipal election on October 20.  1:35:00 | Real Talker "Union Activist Laura" sets the record straight on the differences between government offers to Alberta's nurses and teachers.  1:40:00 | Real Talker Erika - a mom, teacher, and municipal councillor - tells us how she found inspiration amist tears while listening to a recent episode of the show. Positive Reflections is presented weekly on Real Talk by our friends at Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talkers Robb and AJ are choked at how Election Day played out; Mr. Dad and Mike are following the money Alberta spends on education; Vera and Marcus have strong opinions on the teachers' strike, and Tracey is just tiiiiiiiiired of it all. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS!  https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Voters (and candidates) are demanding a third party audit after Edmonton's election was marred by long waits, missing ballot boxes, and dramatic recounts. Thousands of teachers rally outside the Legislature (22:00) as the Throne Speech is read, days ahead of being ordered back to work. And President Donald Trump says trade talks are off with Canada after Ontario Premier Doug Ford taps Ronald Reagan on the shoulder for an American ad campaign (39:00).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 3:45 | Political insiders and podcast hosts Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes get into it all in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ CHECK OUT THE DISCOURSE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-discourse/id1713385479 49:45 | We're days away from the deadline for the Forever Canadian movement to gather the required 300,000 signatures. Founder Thomas Lukaszuk tells us what he's heard from Albertans through the process, and shares his thoughts on the teachers' strike as a former Minister of Education.  1:11:00 | We jump into our Live Chat powered by Park Power in what winds up being a VERY EXPENSIVE EXERCISE as Real Talk steps up to match donations to the Forever Canadian movement. Jespo and Johnny share where their heads are at ahead of the AMPIA Awards (with Real Talk nominated in three categories).  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:30:00 | Real Talker Gillian draws a direct line between the Blue Jays' World Series run and calls for Canada to revoke birthright citizenship.  1:36:45 | Real Talkers Robb and AJ are choked at how Election Day played out; Mr. Dad and Mike are following the money Alberta spends on education; Vera and Marcus have strong opinions on the teachers' strike, and Tracey is just tiiiiiiiiired of it all. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talk brings you exclusives with Edmonton mayor-elect Andrew Knack (2:00) and Calgary mayor-elect Jeromy Farkas (19:25), who share thoughts on their wins (a big one and a nail-biter), and their plan through the first 100 days. Plus, we dig into a mind-boggling story in Edmonton, where reports of missing/discovered ballot boxes and big-swing recounts have many voters questioning the credibility of the entire process.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ 23:00 | Shout out to the thousands of first-time candidates, campaign volunteers, election workers, and others who gave their time to the 2025 Alberta municipal elections. Alberta Wins is proudly presented by Play Alberta.  Get a $50 free bet with a $50 deposit with the promo code RYAN50 on the Play Alberta app or at https://playalberta.ca/. Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense.  26:30 | From 2.5 hour line-ups to missed ballot boxes and dramatically-different recount totals, Edmonton's election was far from flawless. Jespo shares what we're hearing from sources on the front lines, and Real Talkers responses on X and in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 44:15 | Are you familiar with the 4% rule? North Road Investment Counsel's Cary Williams shares sage advice that could save you from the nastiest finance problem.  CONNECT with NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL: https://www.northroadic.com/ 55:15 | Real Talkers share their own realities around household finances and retirement planning. The conversation continues at 1:10:20.  1:15:20 | Did you catch our October 22 conversation with John Jagersma about private school funding in Alberta? Real Talkers Cowie and Chris respond with emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/102225AISCA 1:29:30 | Here's an idea to save money on K-12 education in Alberta... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Will Mayor-elect Andrew Knack be able to improve Edmonton's relationship with the province? Is there reason to believe city council will operate more smoothly than it has over the past four years? Should Alberta consider defunding private schools in light of sustained budget pressures, or should the education portion of property taxes "follow the student"? We take on these big questions and more in this episode of Real Talk.  This episode is presented by RapidEX Financial: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 5:30 | Sarah Hamilton is the only Edmonton city councillor (aside from Mayor Sohi) that did not seek re-election. She gives us the inside scoop on alleged "dysfunction" with the previous council, how she thinks Mayor-elect Andrew Knack will navigate relations with the provincial government, and what was behind her high-profile dispute with fellow councillor Jo-Anne Wright. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 38:30 | You've still got time to check out the Jasper Dark Sky Festival! We've got details on the upcoming (free!) TALK concert, dinner with former astronaut Robert Thirsk, and more in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. We also tee up the first-ever Halloween event in Jasper, Creatures Return, running October 31-November 2.  JASPER DARK SKY FESTIVAL: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ CREATURES RETURN: https://rtrj.info/MyJasperCreaturesReturn 42:00 | More Albertans are debating funding for private schools in light of budget restraints relating to the teachers' strike. John Jagersma from the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta (AISCA) lays out the argument for continued support for independent education in the province.  AISCA: https://www.aisca.ab.ca/ 1:36:00 | Real Talkers share their thoughts on private school funding in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. We hear what you have to say about Alberta's new proposed license plate design.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We may not yet know the results of every municipal election in Alberta, but there's still a lot to talk about. Karen Leibovici, Tim Querengesser, and Max Fawcett join our Real Talk Round Table presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (3:30).  THIS EPISODE OF REAL TALK IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  50:15 | Unit 36 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital is Edmonton's only inpatient mental health unit for children and teens. We share Avery's story in this week's Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. SUPPORT HOPE FOR CHILDREN WHO NEED IT MOST: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ 52:45 | WHAT A GAME! Jespo and Johnny debrief after a wild Game Seven in Toronto, as the Blue Jays advance to the World Series. Real Talkers share their Election Day voting experiences in our Live Chat Powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Voters are headed to the polls across Alberta (9:30) as the teachers' strike enters its third week. The Toronto Blue Jays are one win away from the World Series. Recall petitions are targeting three UCP MLAs (29:30), and rumours are swirling around Pierre Poilievre's future as leader of the federal Conservatives (50:00). We get into it all with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:04:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after a busy weekend including their collaboration at the Camp for a Cause mental health fundraiser at Bar Trove (1:08:00). We discuss the risk union members (and governments) take when labour negotiations lead to a strike. What do you think? Leave a comment below!  1:36:00 | Shout out to whoever was operating Hazel Mae's camera for the Vlad Guerrero Jr. interview after Game Six! It's a perfect Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Brent's got a message for "progressives;" Katie, Laura, and Amanda are all fired up over the teachers' strike, and KT says we were bang on about conditions at the Misericordia Hospital. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Jespo and Johnny had a front row seat as thousands of Alberta teachers rallied outside our studio in the historic Mercer Warehouse, sending a message to Premier Danielle Smith, who was attending the Edmonton Chamber's State of the Province luncheon across the street at Rogers Place. Jespo opens this episode with a first-hand account of what it was like both outside and inside that event. 21:20 | Are Temporary Foreign Workers really stealing jobs from Canadian teens? Does Canada have a program we can truly be proud of? Marcello Di Cintio tells us what he discovered writing his new book "Precarious: The Lives of Migrant Workers." CHECK OUT THE BOOK: https://lighthousebooksbrighton.ca/item/N8KJ1y9ScrwdX7eoxviRkQ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:20:45 | Donald Trump's decision to recognize only male and female on documents like visas and passports is creating headaches for some Canadians. It's prompting a bigger sovereignty conversation around Nexus cards and more. Senator Paula Simons and Marni Panas explain why it matters.  WATCH PAULA'S SENATE ADDRESS: https://youtu.be/yInsw13pkI4?si=xpjdMok0zA5oW6xm 1:20:45 | Jespo returns fire after "Redneck Philosopher" drops a "woke" bomb in the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. Pure entertainment ensues.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS:  1:48:30 | Brent's got a message for "progressives;" Katie, Laura, and Amanda are all fired up over the teachers' strike, and KT says we were bang on about conditions at the Misericordia Hospital. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's been a wild four years for Alberta school trustees. COVID, exploding class sizes, a contentious relationship with the province, a teachers' strike...and increased polarization from the left and the right, citizens critical of every move the school boards make.  5:15 | We talk to Julie Kusiek in Edmonton, Marilyn Dennis in Calgary, and Tammy Henkel in High Prairie in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  ASBA: https://www.asba.ab.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:05:00 | How do you grow a 1,368.5 pound pumpkin?? We feature one of our favourite stories in a long time in Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  DOWNLOAD the PLAY ALBERTA APP: https://playalberta.ca/ GET A $50 FREE BET when you deposit $50 using code RYAN50. Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense. 1:09:00 | What's happening with Mark Carney's nation-building projects? Jason Leslie from the Alberta Chambers of Commerce has his Eye on Alberta Business.  CONNECT with ACC: https://www.abchamber.ca/ 1:27:00 | Jespo and Johnny reflect on the passing of Bruce Saville, world-record pumpkin growing techniques, and the Blue Jays big win against Seattle. 1:44:00 | Real Talkers Kayley and KT in Calgary - both teachers - give us their first-hand perspectives midway through week two of the Alberta teachers' strike.  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

World leaders including PM Mark Carney scrambled to get to Egypt at the behest of President Donald Trump in what's been described as a "chaotic" Gaza Peace Summit. This, as Foreign Minister Anita Anand lays out Canada's priorities in high-level meetings in India and China. Politico's Ottawa bureau chief Nick Taylor-Vaisey (3:30) digs into the details in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. SUBSCRIBE to the CANADA PLAYBOOK: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/canada-playbook MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 33:30 | Jespo looks to the our Live Chat powered by Park Power for Real Talkers' takes on the meetings in Egypt, India, and China before sharing more teachers' strike emails submitted to talk@ryanjespersen.com. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 44:30 | Marmot Basin is rolling out some incredible deals to kick off the 2025-26 ski and snowboard season! We've got details in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  SKI MARMOT: https://www.skimarmot.com/ 49:00 | NorthwestFEARfest is officially underway! We welcome "The Movie Guy" Lavallee and directors Linus O'Brien and Brandon Christensen to a spooky, scary, and super fun edition of the Real Talk Round Table.  GET YOUR TICKETS: https://www.northwestfest.ca/fearfest 1:35:00 | What's your favourite scary movie? Jespo, Johnny, and Real Talkers checking out our live stream share their must-watch Halloween flicks. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

What will it take for Alberta's teachers and the UCP government to get a deal done and end this strike? Athabasca University labour expert Dr. Jason Foster gives us an informed take (45:30), including why he's skeptical the two sides are anywhere close. But first... 3:30 | Supriya Dwivedi tells us what she's keeping an eye on as an Israel/Hamas peace deal is signed, Canada looks to repair its relationship with India, Canada's Supreme Court justices undergo a makeover of sorts, and former PM Justin Trudeau is spotted smooching pop superstar Katy Perry on a yacht. Real Talk's feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 42:00 | Brent Kelland thought he'd seen it all as a retired paramedic. That is, until he became a patient at the CK Hui Heart Centre at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. We feature Brent's story in this week's Echoes of the Alex, celebrating 125 years of care, compassion, and community at the Royal Alex. HELP ENSURE STORIES LIKE BRENT'S CONTINUE: http://givetoroyalalex.org/  45:30 | AU professor Dr. Jason Foster compares the 2002 and 2025 Alberta teachers' strikes.  CHECK OUT THE AU ADVANTAGE: http://athabascau.ca/ 1:14:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief re: the teachers' strike, the Jays' back-to-back losses against the Mariners, and the Trudeau/Perry romance.  GET YOUR TICKETS TO NorthWestFearFest: https://www.northwestfest.ca/fearfest 1:40:15 | Shout out to everybody who worked through the Thanksgiving weekend! Ryan shares a firsthand story about a power outage in rural Saskatchewan in Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's an all-teachers' strike edition of The Flamethrower, as KP, "Confidential," Ross, Carmen, Jay, "Different Carmen," and Justin give us their hottest takes. The Flamethrower is presented weekly by our friends at the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's a hotly contested race for the Calgary Mayor's office. In this special presentation, you'll hear from the five highest-polling candidates for the top job at City Hall as Jeromy Farkas, Jyoti Gondek, Brian Thiessen, Sonya Sharp, and Jeff Davison square off in our Real Talk Calgary Mayoral Debate.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:12:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the debate before kicking off another - white vs. dark turkey meat, apple vs. pumpkin vs. pecan pie, and other matters of Thanksgiving importance.  1:35:30 | Donald Trump is not the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. We hear why.  1:45:00 | It's an all-teachers' strike edition of The Flamethrower, as KP, "Confidential," Ross, Carmen, Jay, "Different Carmen," and Justin give us their hottest takes. The Flamethrower is presented weekly by our friends at the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park.  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The US government shutdown continues into its second week, as Canada and the U.S. continue to work toward a trade deal (we hope). We've got you covered with Wyatt Sharpe reporting live from the White House (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.   MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 13:30 | On day four of the Alberta teachers' strike, the Real Talk Rumour Mill is fuelled by your emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com following our interview with Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/100825Minister 28:10 | Jespo's still buzzing after the Battle of Alberta, and it shows in this week's edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  GET A $50 FREE BET WHEN YOU DEPOSIT $50 USING THE PROMO CODE RYAN50: https://playalberta.ca/ -- MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. 31:30 | Municipal elections across Alberta are looming - October 20 - so we check in with independent media voices Omar Mouallem from Edify and Karen Unland from Taproot Edmonton to see how they're covering it differently from the mainstream outlets.  CHECK OUT EDIFY: https://edifyedmonton.com/ TAKE THE TAPROOT ELECTION SURVEY: https://edmonton.taproot.news/ 1:30:30 | Jespo and Johnny are in the mood to chew the fat, including thoughts on the Blue Jays dispatching the Yankees from the MLB post-season, the Flames taking down the Oilers in their NHL season openers, tips to never pay for parking, and the best bra store in the whole wide world (yeah, you heard us right).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  CHECK OUT THE JASPER HOTEL OFFER: https://www.jasper.travel/hotel-offer/ SUPPORT THE ROYAL ALEXANDRA HOSPITAL: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

How long is this Alberta teachers' strike going to last? What are the sticking points? Where is the government refusing to budge, and what are the terms both sides agree to? Will the government ultimately order teachers back to work? We ask Alberta's Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides (5:00) in this episode of Real Talk. NOTE: Our YouTube live stream experienced an interruption 45 minutes into this episode. You can catch the full episode wherever you get your podcasts, and you can always catch our audio live stream on the Mixlr audio app. APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/real-talk-ryan-jespersen/id1540709742 SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/03RyuWqhe4YBI7mS48VDBA REAL TALK on MIXLR: https://realtalkrj.mixlr.com/ 29:00 | Ryan reads some of the MANY emails we've received to talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We've got Alberta covered in this episode, including your thoughts on the teachers strike, Jyoti Gondek's mission to secure a second term as Calgary's mayor, and former Edmonton mayor Stephen Mandel's total dissatisfaction with the state of the capital city.  Ryan leads off with a message from an Edmonton principal experiencing "the worst and most difficult day of (her) 23-year career," a gut check on student hunger from Brittany in Red Deer, Teacher Andrea's real reason for voting "no" to the province's most recent deal, and and Robyn's note re: charter schools. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com  6:00 | In our fifth of five interviews with the leading candidates for Calgary mayor, Jyoti Gondek shares her thoughts on the teachers strike, cost of living in Calgary, blanket rezoning, and polling leading up to the October 20 election.  DON'T MISS OUR REAL TALK CALGARY MAYORAL DEBATE on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 CHECK OUT THE GONDEK CAMPAIGN: https://jyotigondek.ca/ 24:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on mayoral races in Calgary and Edmonton, and Rahim Jaffer's public release calling out his exclusion from our Real Talk Edmonton Mayoral Debate.  WATCH THE REAL TALK EDMONTON MAYORAL DEBATE: https://rtrj.info/100325YEGCC 42:30 | Stephen Mandel is ready to blow a gasket. The former Edmonton mayor tells us what he REALLY thinks about the state of the city, and how it got here.  1:01:00 | The Royal Alexandra Hospital is celebrating 125 years, and every Tuesday on Real Talk, we're highlighting the Echoes of the Alex. This week, it's the story of Joyce Helton.  TELL US YOUR ROYAL ALEX STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com  DONATE TODAY: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The largest strike in Alberta history is officially underway, as 51,000 teachers start the week outside the classroom. How long could this last? What are the main sticking points? Ryan sits down with Alberta Teachers Association president Jason Schilling (1:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 36:30 | Ryan reads Real Talkers' emails and comments from our Live Chat powered by Park Power before checking in with Supriya Dwivedi. We get to her thoughts on the strike (and similarities between Alberta and Ontario on the education file), before discussing PM Mark Carney's upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump, Pierre Poilievre's pushback on the Liberals' Strong Borders Act (Bill C-2), and protests around Bad Bunny's upcoming Super Bowl halftime show.  1:17:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the Supriya interview, celebrate the Toronto Blue Jays' dominant performance against the Yankees in the first two games of the ALDS, and muse about Connor McDavid's future with the Oilers. (NOTE: The Oilers announced a two-year, $25M extension with Connor McDavid just moments after this episode was recorded.) 1:40:00 | Ryan speaks from the heart to 51,000 striking Alberta teachers in this edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. SHARE YOUR OWN POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Andy in B.C. says "Hell no" to a new bitumen pipeline; Robert, Thomas, Justin, Chris and Kimberly have hot takes on the Alberta Next town hall debacle in Calgary, Aaron might be the next Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Brendan calls Ryan to the carpet, and Tobias sniffs out hypocrisy. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Tim Cartmell, Andrew Knack, and Michael Walters want to be Edmonton's next mayor. In this special episode, you'll hear details of their vision for the capital city's future, criticism of their opponents platforms, and their Big Promise to Edmontonians, in the Real Talk Edmonton Mayoral Debate presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW WITH RAHIM JAFFER: https://rtrj.info/082825Jaffer CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW WITH DR. OMAR MOHAMMAD: https://rtrj.info/091725Omar 1:10:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the debate, and chat about Taylor Swift's new album (how could we not??). 1:13:45 | Andy in B.C. says "Hell no" to a new bitumen pipeline; Robert, Thomas, Justin, Chris and Kimberly have hot takes on the Alberta Next town hall debacle in Calgary, Aaron might be the next Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Brendan calls Ryan to the carpet, and Tobias sniffs out hypocrisy. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta's got plans for a new pipeline to the west coast, and wants Ottawa to get on board. B.C. and Quebec are predictably pushing back, in what Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is calling "a test if Canada still works". What're the chances this pipeline will actually get built? We ask public affairs commentator Tasha Kheiridden (2:40) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  READ TASHA'S WORK: https://tashakheiriddin.substack.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 34:30 | Jespo and Johnny dig deeper into pipeline politics, and see what Real Talkers have to say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. We revisit our October 1 discussion about the teen whose mic was cut at the Alberta Next town hall in Calgary.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 59:00 | Shout out to the town of Innisfail for a big win on the national stage! We highlight the prestigious honour from Carbon Capture Canada in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. Play Alberta is offering odds boosts on every Oilers game all season long! And for a limited time only, Real Talkers can get an exclusive $50 free bet when they deposit $50 using the code RYAN50. Alberta Wins with Play Alberta! DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY or visit https://playalberta.ca/. Please play responsibly.  1:06:30 | Jespo was spicier than usual on X (@ryanjespersen) after our October 1 episode. He shares why.  1:21:30 | Legendary human Jane Goodall passes away at 91 while on a speaking tour. We celebrate her remarkable life.  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Danielle Smith's government is facing fire after a Calgary high school student was silenced, humiliated, and dismissed at an Alberta Next town hall. Is Alberta's freedom-loving premier (and her event moderator Bruce McAllister) practicing what her government preaches? Ryan opens with a some quick thoughts off the top before really digging into the story (32:00). But first... 3:10 | PM Mark Carney's popularity is down since he was elected, but Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has his own problems. There's also a curious trend south of the border, as President Donald Trump's secretary of health is actually less popular than POTUS himself among Canadians. Liaison Strategies' David Valentin takes us into his latest polling.  READ MORE: https://www.liaison.ca/ 32:00 | How can anybody take the results of the UCP's Alberta Next panels seriously after what went down in Calgary? Ryan pulls no punches in his assessment of the Evan Li debacle.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:03:00 | It's never been more affordable to enjoy fall at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge! We've got details on a 30%-off promotion through the first two weeks of October, and a free (!) TALK concert during the Jasper Dark Sky Festival in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  BOOK at the JPL: https://www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/jasper/fairmont-jasper-park-lodge/offers/fall-getaways.html JASPER DARK SKY FESTIVAL: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 1:07:00 | Jespo gives Real Talkers the floor re: the town hall censorship story via our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

September 30 is a day to reflect, to listen, and to confront the truths of Canada's history. On this special episode, we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with honest, challenging, and hopeful conversations about where we've come from and where we go next. This is more than a day off—it's a call to remembrance, responsibility, and renewal. Ryan welcomes journalist Dani Paradis and artist, politician, and community leader Aaron Paquette for a candid discussion on the stories that shape us, the role of media and art in reconciliation, and what meaningful action looks like in 2025. CONNECT WITH DANI: https://www.daniparadis.com/ WATCH RE-KEN-SI-LE-A-SHEN on APPLE TV: https://tv.apple.com/ca/movie/re-ken-si-le-a-shen/umc.cmc.1ujmxfg99gse2nx975ea9kh2h  WATCH RE-KEN-SI-LE-A-SHEN on AMAZON PRIME: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/RE-KEN-SI-LE-A-SHEN/0NTYMDEOXTX3R6VG4I1C413YTT FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Rachel Gilmore has to be the most-trolled journalist in Canada. It's impossible to ignore the vitriol around everything she posts, let alone criticism from high-profile voices like MP Andrew Scheer and TV host Ben Mulroney. Rachel joins Ryan and Supriya Dwivedi (2:30) to talk about organized opposition to her work, and how it impacts her personally and professionally. We get into Irish hip hop group Kneecap's "ban" from performing in Canada, and criticism aimed at Erica Kirk.  READ RACHEL'S WORK: https://rachelgilmore.substack.com/ 1:03:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the Gilmore interview, and take a look at other news headlines, including Premier Doug Ford pulling the plug on photo radar in Ontario.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:37:30 | Jespo was at Rogers Centre to watch the Toronto Blue Jays clinch their first AL East division championship in a decade. We toast Canada's Team in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talker Gordon is so fired up about the UCP's school library book ban that he wrote a song about it. For the first time ever, we present an original tune as this week's Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

She's Canadian punk royalty. A fearless, unapologetic icon. An activist. A survivor. And an incredible human being. We welcome Bif Naked and producer Adam Scorgie to the Real Talk studio (2:30) in the historic Mercer Warehouse ahead of the Edmonton Film Festival premiere of a new documentary chronicling her remarkable life.  GET TICKETS TO BIF NAKED at EIFF: https://2025eiff.eventive.org/films/689b7c33db2368453d0eebc5 1:06:00 | There's no better place to see the stars than Jasper National Park. We've got details ahead of the fifteenth Jasper Dark Sky Festival in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  LEARN MORE: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 1:18:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Bif Naked interview and Jimmy Kimmel's return to late night. We celebrate the life and mourn the loss of a dear friend of the show, Dr. Darren Markland. 1:42:00 | Real Talker Gordon is so fired up about the UCP's school library book ban that he wrote a song about it. For the first time ever, we present an original tune as this week's Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park.  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Prominent firearms lawyer Ian Runkle says Prime Minister Mark Carney lied to us about the government's gun buyback program. In this episode, we welcome the host of the popular "Runkle of the Bailey" YouTube channel (39:00) to clarify where he says the PM isn't shooting straight.  5:00 | But first...new polling shows one horse pulling away from all the others in the race to be Calgary's next mayor. 338 Canada's Philippe Fournier lays out how mayoral campaigns are resonating with voters in Calgary and Edmonton. We get into national polling on Mark Carney's minority government, Pierre Poilievre ahead of a January leadership review, and how Canadians feel about our future relationship with the United States.  READ MORE: https://www.338canada.ca/ 33:00 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the province won't cooperate with the feds in any sort of firearm confiscation. Prime Minister Mark Carney says nobody's confiscating anything. We set the table for our conversation with Ian Runkle.  39:00 | Criminal defence (and firearms) attorney Ian Runkle says the PM lied in his Real Talk interview on September 10. We get into it in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  WATCH THE CARNEY INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/091025PMCarney CHECK OUT IAN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@UCUVdcsH5X1a76V1-KnF3heA  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:33:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief with ammo (ha) from the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Donald Trump will host a UFC event on the South Lawn of the White House in July (2:00). Canada will officially recognize the State of Palestine (6:00). Separatism sentiments are flaring up again in Quebec (19:00), and RCMP have intercepted another group trying to cross the Canada-U.S. border into that province (24:30). We get into all the top stories with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  29:30 | Did you see what Kamala Harris wrote in her new memoir about wanting to choose Pete Buttigieg as her 2024 running mate? Supriya has a message for Democrats ahead of 2028.  40:00 | Sonya Sharp wants to be Calgary's next mayor. She defines the "ballot box question" ahead of October 20, and tells us how the city would operate differently if she had the top job.  CHECK OUT SONYA'S CAMPAIGN: https://sharpformayor.ca/ 1:19:30 | The Real Talk family suffered a tragic loss when a beloved guest and friend of the show died in a mountain bike crash. Ryan speaks from the heart in a personal edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Wayne has a word of warning for podcasters, Ross says Jimmy Kimmel deserves his fate, Robert has words of warning about a "both sides" approach, "29 Tilers," Edward, and Peter are pissed about Jespo's interview with the Prime Minister, and Kayne says it's time to put on your poppy.  It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Are Temporary Foreign Workers standing in the way of Canadians finding work? As premiers of different political stripes call for an overhaul to Canada's TFW program, former Notley NDP cabinet minister Shannon Phillips and Pierre Poilievre's former communications director Ben Woodfinden (2:40) hash it out on Real Talk in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ We analyze Liberal vs. Conservative approaches to immigration policy, and how effective "anger" can be in advancing political priorities (26:00). Stick around for healthy debate on Canada's new trade agreement with Mexico (32:00), Alberta's plan to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause on three transgender laws (38:30), and citizenship markers on driver's licenses (47:00).  MORE on SHANNON and BEN'S WORK: https://mbpolicy.com/ 54:00 | Wayne has a word of warning for podcasters, Ross says Jimmy Kimmel deserves his fate, Robert has words of warning about a "both sides" approach, "29 Tilers," Edward, and Peter are pissed about Jespo's interview with the Prime Minister, and Kayne says it's time to put on your poppy. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.