A daily discussion about news, politics, and pop culture, hosted by Ryan Jespersen from Edmonton, Alberta. Real Talk streams live, weekday mornings at 8:30am MT at ryanjespersen.com.
Can a career longshoreman and national union leader resurrect Canada's NDP? Rob Ashton tells us how (and why) he'll do it in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (6:20). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. CHECK OUT ROB'S CAMPAIGN: https://robashton.ca/ BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 40:20 | Fuck yeah, bud! Comedian Henry Sir joins Jespo in the Real Talk studio in the historic Mercer Warehouse to chat about the meteoric rise of his "Current Events Chirped by a Canadian" series. FOLLOW HENRY on IG: https://www.instagram.com/henrysircomedy/ SEE HENRY in CALGARY on APRIL 2: https://www.showpass.com/henry-sir-4/ 1:23:40 | You've got to see Tourism Jasper's new cozy cabin experience at Gate 16 at Edmonton International Airport! We feature the new installation in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. CHECK OUT THE CABIN CAPITAL OF CANADA: https://www.jasper.travel/where-to-stay/cabins-lodges/ A note from Ryan: Our hearts are broken for our friends in Jasper and Hinton who lost two beloved friends, daughters, sisters, and teammates in a tragic crash after hockey practice on February 23. Our deepest condolences and much love to the entire Bearcats hockey team and the family at Harry Collinge High School. 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.
People are being trafficked in your city right now. Exploitation is happening in communities across Canada and around the world. Country star Paul Brandt has been working to end trafficking for 20 years. He tells us how it's happening and how it can be stopped (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. (As you'd expect, Ryan hits the recent teachers' speech cancellation/Alberta separation story right off the top.) THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ 37:30 | Pierre Poilievre's got a new video taking on "fake refugees" enjoying "deluxe healthcare" (50:15). The B.C. Supreme Court's Cowichan Decision is making international headlines, and causing a huge stir over property rights. We get into both stories with journalist Arno Kopecky, who leads off by telling us about being rejected for a press pass at the recent Conservative Convention in Calgary. FOLLOW ARNO ON IG: https://www.instagram.com/arnokopecky/ 1:12:40 | Did we just see the biggest month in AI history? Cary Williams is in from North Road Investment Counsel with insights into software vs. energy stocks, and takeaways for investors and everyday citizens. COULD YOUR INVESTMENTS USE A SECOND SET OF EYES? REAL TALKERS ENJOY A DISCOUNTED RATE WHEN BOOKING A SECOND OPINION WITH NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL. JUST TELL THEM JESPO SENT YOU! https://www.northroadic.com/ 1:47:40 | What do you think about the new Meta glasses? Real Talker Jackassica tells us how hers have changed the way she works and plays. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:53:30 | Kudos to Real Talkers Kyle, Chantal G., and Chantal V. for being the first to correctly answer our impromptu trivia question about Alberta Conservative MPs crossing the floor to the Liberals. All three will receive a Real Talk prize pack. 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.
Thousands of Canadians are stranded in Mexico after a wave of violence erupted following the death of a cartel leader. Supriya and Ryan check in with snowbird Murray Billett (5:00) with smoke still lingering over Puerto Vallarta. We go on to discuss Canada's silver medal in Olympic men's hockey, ChatGPT's warning ahead of the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting, Alberta's referendum on immigration policy in October 2026, and Punch, the baby monkey that went viral. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 42:00 | Corb Lund updates us on the status of his "no new coal" petition, including details he says are being misrepresented in mainstream media reports. GET INVOLVED with the WATER NOT COAL PETITION: https://www.waternotcoal.ca/ 1:00:30 | We talk heart health with Dr. Ben Tyrrell, chief of cardiology at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, and Lindsay Robertson, VP at the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz HEARTBEAT HIDEAWAY TICKETS for FEB. 27: https://trellis.org/heartbeat-hideaway-2026 1:31:00 | Jespo and Johnny recap the Olympic men's hockey gold medal game. 1:49:20 | Real Talker Anne shines a light on cold weather heroes in this week's Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: 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 Talkers are FIRED UP as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces a nine-question referendum in October 2026. Collin, Taylor from Calgary, Jan, Erin, and Harry sound off on blaming immigrants, the confusing "Alberta is Calling" campaign, and Christian Nationalism in 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, or 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.
No province is better positioned to benefit from the Liberals' new Defence Industrial Strategy than Alberta. Across the board, Alberta will see an influx of capital, jobs, top talent, and opportunity as Canada invests more in itself than ever before. Nathan Mison (Diplomat Consulting), Ian Smith (U of A Engineering), and Jason Pincock (Logican Technologies) join our Real Talk Round Table (4:00) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 39:00 | As the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs, Wyatt Sharpe joins us from Washington, D.C. CHECK OUT @thewyattsharpeshow : https://www.youtube.com/@thewyattsharpeshow FOLLOW WYATT ON X: https://x.com/wyattsharpe8 48:00 | Real Talkers chime in on national defence spending in Alberta via our Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 59:30 | Could the moon be blown to smithereens by an asteroid within the next six years? Could a solar storm shut down our power grid, pipelines, and comms infrastructure? Athabasca University's Dr. Martin Connors and Dr. Darcy Cordell blow our minds with insights on space weather hazards, the northern lights, and more. CHECK OUT AU's LIVE SKY CAM: http://weather.athabascau.ca/ LEARN MORE about the AU ADVANTAGE: https://www.athabascau.ca/index.html 1:30:15 | Jespo and Johnny touch on a couple Olympic headlines, including the "Boo Eileen Gu" movement in the U.S. 1:50:30 | Real Talkers are FIRED UP as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announces a nine-question referendum in October 2026. Collin, Taylor from Calgary, Jan, Erin, and Harry sound off on blaming immigrants, the confusing "Alberta is Calling" campaign, and Christian Nationalism in 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, or 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.
Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives have lost three MPs in three months to Mark Carney's Liberals. What's the plan to stop the bleeding? And what about the (understandably) disgruntled Conservative supporters calling for automatic by-elections when floor crossings occur? We check in with strategist (and former Liberal senior staffer) Carlene Variyan in Ottawa (5:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 44:00 | Real Talker Kathryn shines a spotlight on Alberta athletes competing in Milano Cortina in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. SEND US YOUR ALBERTA WIN: talk@ryanjespersen.com THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 48:45 | International Man of Mystery Greg Mackinnon joins us from the Milano Speed Skating Stadium with a few stories from his 2026 Winter Olympic adventure thus far. 58:40 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Matt Jeneroux defection. 1:33:20 | "MetaModern" poses a very specific question about our new Real Talk mugs in the Live Chat. Jespo conducts a live experiment to give MetaModern their answer. ORDER YOUR REAL TALK MUG TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/merch 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.
Matt Jeneroux isn't resigning after all. The Edmonton Riverbend MP will instead cross the floor to join Mark Carney's Liberal caucus, as announced by the Prime Minister just a few minutes into this live stream. Jespo's got a lot to say about it, as does commentator Spencer Fernando (3:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 8:45 | Spencer gives us his take on MP Jamil Jivani's trip to D.C., PM Mark Carney's new defence strategy, and the difference between Christian nationalism in the States and civic nationalism in Canada. READ SPENCER'S WORK: https://www.spencerfernando.com/ 43:00 | Jespo and Johnny respond to Spencer sharing about his personal evolution as a conservative commentator. 57:45 | Real Talker James shares details of his fantastic few days in Jasper, visiting from Ontario, in a special edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:02:00 | A group of Edmonton firefighters is battling blizzard conditions on the roof of Fire Hall #2 in support of Muscular Dystrophy research. We connect with (absolute beauties) Liam Troy, Mike Berg, AJ Moretti, Mike Denoncourt, and Mitch Burgess. DONATE TO THE ROOFTOP CAMPOUT: https://www.edmontonrooftopcampout.ca/ FOLLOW THE FIREFIGHTERS on INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/edmfiremusculardystrophy 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.
Jamil Jivani says Canada's shooting itself in the foot with an "anti-American hissy fit." The Conservative MP made the comments to right wing outlet Breitbart after meeting with his college pal (and current US vice-president) JD Vance and President Donald Trump during a solo mission to D.C. earlier this month. Supriya Dwivedi tells us how she thinks Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre should respond to the Jivani situation (26:20) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ 3:00 | We lead with Tumbler Ridge, BC, where Prime Minister Mark Carney and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre joined hundreds of mourners in person (and millions more across the country), offering a commitment to support town residents over the long term. We tackle new developments in the Canada-India saga (43:00), including what Supriya says is a disastrous photo opp involving Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand. Are you as nervous as Ryan is about Meta's new facial recognition glasses (51:15)? We get into it with Supriya first, then Real Talkers have their say (1:02:00) in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:30:30 | Real Talker Tiffany celebrates Rev. Jesse Jackson's legacy with a Positive Reflection just hours after the civil rights activist's passing. Positive Reflections is presented weekly by our friends at Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: 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 Brent's still "on the fence" with Alberta separation, Joe from Airdrie has a plan to force Donald Trump's hand on the Gordie Howe bridge, Chevy on Spotify calls out Johnny's pacifism, G Money has a warning about Surrey, BC, and Les wants Alberta separatists to grow up. 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, or 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.
We love how Senator Charles Adler tees up this episode - as a "kitchen table conversation" about the things that really matter. If you're looking for real, empathetic insights into the Tumbler Ridge tragedy (5:10), you'll find them from the Emmy Award-winning broadcast legend in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ WIN BIG. CHANGE LIVES. BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 1:20:15 | Adler gives us his take on Donald Trump's threat to block the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge and Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show. 1:48:00 | Johnny's got a fantastic Instagram/TikTok vid from @gringocorridos featuring Bad Bunny's lyrics delivered in English. Enjoy! 1:55:00 | The Prince of Puns tapped Jespo on the shoulder at Edmonton Opera's Dianne Kipnes Valentine's Gala! Jespo presents an impromptu love letter to Gene Principe. 2:00:30 | Brent's back with more of why he's "on the fence" with Alberta separation, Joe from Airdrie has a plan to force Donald Trump's hand on the Gordie Howe bridge, Chevy on Spotify calls out Johnny's pacifism, G Money has a warning about Surrey, BC, and Les wants Alberta separatists to grow up. 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, or 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.
If you're like us, you're walking with a heavy heart after the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC. You may also be wondering if or how you should talk about it with your kids. Dr. Jody Carrington gives us a lot to think about (3:10) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. TELL US HOW YOU'RE DOING: talk@ryanjespersen.com THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ CONNECT with DR. JODY: https://www.drjodycarrington.com/ WIN BIG. CHANGE LIVES. BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 44:20 | Alberta's divided right is dampening the separation spark. Angus Reid Institute president Shachi Kurl digs into the results of their recent poll after sharing her personal thoughts on the Tumbler Ridge tragedy. CHECK OUT THE POLL: https://angusreid.org/alberta-unity-separation-smith-carney-prosperity/ 1:13:00 | Did you know Alberta sent more Olympians to Italy than any other province? Real Talker Michael crunches the numbers in Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 1:16:30 | Real Talkers have their say on the Tumbler Ridge tragedy and Alberta separation in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:32:15 | Real Talker Rebecca responds to Real Talker Brent's February 11 email asking why the rest of the country doesn't seem to want Alberta to stay in Canada. 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.
How do you begin to talk about the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, BC? Ten people are dead and another 25 sustained injuries in one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history. We hear from political leaders and Real Talkers across the country who are grieving this senseless loss of life. TELL US WHAT YOU'RE FEELING: talk@ryanjespersen.com THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 17:30 | National Post correspondent Rahim Mohamed was scheduled to join us on this episode before the Tumbler Ridge shooting. He shares his thoughts as a human first, and a journalist second. We go on to discuss new polling on Alberta separation, Paul Brandt's cancelled speaking engagement, the Alberta-Montana electricity dispute, and President Donald Trump's take on the soon-to-open Gordie Howe Bridge between Windsor and Detroit. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ READ RAHIM'S WORK: https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/why-danielle-smith-is-playing-hardball-with-montana-on-electricity-trade?utm_campaign=NP_social&utm_content=news 1:30:20 | The Family Day weekend is a perfect time to bring the family to Jasper National Park! We highlight some of the coolest family-friendly activities in Jasper in this week's #MyJasper Memories proudly presented by Tourism Jasper. MARMOT BASIN: https://www.skimarmot.com/ PLAN YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:36:00 | Real Talker Brent is unsure of where he stands on Alberta separation. He has a question for his fellow Canadians in an email 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 go left-to-right in this episode featuring federal NDP leadership candidate Heather McPherson (3:00) and farmer/YouTuber/comedian Quick Dick McDick (43:00) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ CONNECT with HEATHER: https://www.heathermcpherson.ca/ BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 40:00 | At the heart of the Royal Alexandra Hospital's legacy is the CK Hui Heart Centre. We highlight the Centre's reach across Western Canada and a February 27 invitation to be part of a legacy of care. GET TICKETS to HEARTBEAT HIDEAWAY: https://trellis.org/heartbeat-hideaway-2026 43:00 | Jespo welcomes Canada's most-followed Ag YouTuber, @QuickDickMcDick , on Canada's Agriculture Day. The fellas chat about mental health, the future of farming (including beef and EVs), Alberta separation, Paul Brandt's cancelled speaking gig, and more. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com CONNECT with QDM: https://quickdickmcdick.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.
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show draws a record audience AND the ire of President Donald Trump, who calls it "absolutely terrible, one of the worst EVER". We get into alllllllll the details with Supriya Dwivedi (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. We cover Conservative MP Jamil Jivani's trip to D.C. (21:00), Trump's now-deleted social media post depicting the Obamas as primates (38:40), Stephane Dion calling out Danielle Smith (48:45), and developments in the Canada-India relationship (1:09:00). TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below or email talk@ryanjespersen.com THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:18:30 | Real Talker Ryan can't help but wonder what might have been, had Calgarians voted to bid on another Winter Olympic Games. Would you like to see the Olympics back in Canada? 1:34:30 | Real Talker Garth shares a firsthand perspective on the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, and how his Alberta employer is aiding Jamaicans in need, in this week's Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com BOOK A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: 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.
Jonathan chastises Jespo's "unserious" approach to the nukes-in-Canada discussion, Mike has a hot take on the Gavin McKenna assault charges story, Andrea says she'd "die for this country" were the U.S. to invade Canada, and Mary Ann checks in from Ixtapa, Mexico with thoughts on ICE. 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, or 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.
We didn't want to talk about Donald Trump during this Black History Month Round Table (15:45). But POTUS forced our hand when he posted a vile, racist AI video depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes just hours before we recorded this episode. Trump's unconscionable action is a reminder we've still got a long ways to go. Darren W. Jordan, Garfield Morgan, and Lorelle Whittingham, and Renee Williams bring their artists' perspectives to this important feature interview (starting at 2:20) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ 45:25 | Edmonton Arts Council CEO Renee Williams joins Darren and Lorelle around the Real Talk Round Table. 5 ARTISTS, 1 LOVE: https://www.5artists1love.com/ EDM. ARTS COUNCIL: https://www.edmontonarts.ca/blog/living-portraits-celebrating-black-artists-in-edmonton SHARE YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:27:10 | Real Talkers share their thoughts (and generous Super Chat contributions) in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:32:10 | Jonathan chastises Jespo's "unserious" approach to the nukes-in-Canada discussion, Mike has a hot take on the Gavin McKenna assault charges story, Andrea says she'd "die for this country" were the U.S. to invade Canada, and Mary Ann checks in from Ixtapa, Mexico with thoughts on ICE. 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, or 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.
Top NHL prospect Gavin McKenna faces a felony assault charge following an altercation at a Pennsylvania bar. Rumour is the 18-year-old McKenna and his Mom were repeatedly harassed by the 21-year-old who reportedly wound up with a broken jaw. What would you do in a situation like this? We debate the merits of defending your family or walking away (1:10:30) in this very candid episode of Real Talk. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below or email talk@ryanjespersen.com But first... 5:00 | We check in on Jasper's fire rebuild with Edmonton MP Eleanor Olszewski, the Liberals' new Ministerial Lead for Jasper. Of course, we ask what she thinks about Consevative MP Jamil Jivani's trip to D.C. to meet with the Trump administration, too. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 38:00 | Will you be tuning into the Olympic Winter Games? Would you like to see Canada host the Games again? We get into Liaison Strategies' new polling ahead of the Opening Ceremony for Milan Cortina. CHECK OUT THE RESULTS: https://www.liaison.ca/polls/canadians-love-their-hockey-but-not-enough-to-foot-the-bill-for-a-future-olympics 55:00 | Real Talkers give us their cost-benefit analysis around hosting the Olympics in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:06:00 | We focus (get it?) on Alberta photographers taking top honours in Canadian Geographic's Canadian Photos of the Year in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 1:10:30 | What would you do if somebody hurled insults at your Mom or another beloved family member? We dig into the rumours around Gavin McKenna's felony assault charge in Pennsylvania. 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.
Should Canada expand its military arsenal to include nuclear weapons? Retired general Wayne Eyre says it should be an option, but Defence Minister David McGuinty says it's not. We ask columnist Tasha Kheiriddin (3:40) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. Tasha also explains why Pierre Poilievre needs to talk more about Donald Trump, and gives us her take on Stephen Harper's portrait unveiling in Ottawa. (Enjoy the very beginning of the interview, as Jespo learns a tough lesson about leaning on AI for simple yet important tasks.) THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ CHECK OUT TASHA'S SUBSTACK: https://tashakheiriddin.substack.com/ 47:00 | Are The Beatles the most overrated band in the world? Johnny lays out his argument, prompting a vigorous debate in our Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 57:00 | Looking to WOW your valentine? Head to the most romantic spot in Canada - Jasper National Park! Real Talker Claudette paints a picture, then Jespo highlights your best Valentine's Day options in #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. PLAN YOUR VALENTINE'S DAY in JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:06:30 | Debate continues in our Live Chat around overrated bands and Canada going nuclear. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:12:45 | Did you hear what Melinda French Gates had to say about her ex-husband Bill and the Epstein files? We have a look at her appearance on an NPR podcast that has everybody talking, along with a remarkable exchange at the White House between President Trump and CNN's Kaitlan Collins. 1:38:15 | Our thoughts are with the many friends and family mourning the loss of teens JJ Wright, Cameron Casorso, and Caden Fine, the Southern Alberta Mustangs hockey players killed in a crash on their way to practice. BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 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.
Canada's Conservatives opened up their playbook at the party's annual Convention in Calgary, laying out plans to quell the housing crunch and defend Arctic sovereignty. Is PM Mark Carney particularly vulnerable on these files? Can Pierre Poilievre convince voters he's a better man for the job? Former UCP senior staffer Colin Aitchison was in the room for Poilievre's speech, and delivers his analysis in our feature interview (4:45) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 48:15 | Real Talk is proud to support Heart Month at the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. In this edition of Echoes of the Alex, we hear Otto's story - diagnosed with a serious heart defect in utero, the now-nine year old is alive and well thanks to specialized cardiac care at "The Alex". SUPPORT LIVE-SAVING CARDIAC CARE at the CK HUI HEART CENTRE: https://www.royalalex.org/heartmonth 51:55 | The visitor economy is vital to the growth of any region. Chris Yeung joins us from Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels as nominations open for the Edmonton Tourism Awards. NOMINATE AN EXCEPTIONAL PERSON, BUSINESS, or EXPERIENCE: https://edmontontourismawards.com/ 1:20:15 | Real Talkers Edna and Jerry respond to our January 22 interview about ER wait times with Dr. Paul Parks. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/012226Parksy SHARE YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com (or 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.
Pierre Poilievre walks away from a big weekend in Calgary with a significant boost, scoring 87.4% in his leadership review at Conservative Convention 2026. Poll analyst Philippe Fournier was there as an objective observer, and joins Ryan and Supriya with a full report (4:20) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 338CANADA: https://www.338canada.ca/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 45:30 | We're proud to support the Stollery Children's Hospital's No Bounds campaign, aiming to raise a BILLION dollars to build a new children's hospital in Edmonton. Stollery CEO Karen Faulkner and board chair Kevin McKee join "medical mom" Jodi Richardson and her incredibly brave daughter Emmy in the Real Talk studio as we learn more about why the new hospital is so desperately needed. SUPPORT the NO BOUNDS CAMPAIGN: https://www.stollerynobounds.com/ 1:17:45 | A huge thank you to everybody who supported the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic! We recap the highlights of a perfect Saturday in St. Albert courtesy photographer Karly Watson and videographer Brian "Noob" Schonewille. 1:26:20 | Podcast subscribers - did you check out the bonus episode we released on February 1? Relay (Real Talk's parent company) is producing an eight-episode feature series for the Alberta Federation of Labour. You can read more about the Worker Agenda here: https://workeragenda.ca/ 1:32:20 | Real Talker Rachelle has us smiling from ear to ear with her video of "the happiest of all the disappointed Denver Broncos fans". No matter which NFL team you cheer for, we guarantee wee Wyatt's expression will make your day! Positive Reflections is proudly presented by Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com BOOK A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: 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 solutions for Alberta workers from the Alberta Federation of Labour. Episode 1 of the Worker Agenda looks at AFFORDABILITY. Everything is getting more expensive. The dream of a secure, middle-class life is slipping away, especially for young people. Gil McGowan and Cori Longo of the AFL join Omar Mouallem to discuss what can be done to make life more affordable for Albertans. Follow the Worker Agenda at: https://workeragenda.ca/ Ask your MLA to make the Worker Agenda THE Agenda for the province https://workeragenda.ca/get-involved/ Follow AFL Media: https://www.youtube.com/@ABFedLabour/videos Follow AFL on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABFedLabour Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abfedlabour/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/ABFedLabour LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alberta-federation-of-labour/ Follow the AFL and sign up for AFL News: https://afl.org/
Real Talkers Glenn and Tractor Dave have hot takes on Alberta's separatist movement; Keltie, Laura, and Les are fired up over our coverage of changes to disability benefits in Alberta; and Melvin has a geography lesson for Jespo. It's The Flamethrower presented by our amazing 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, or 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.
Canada's premiers are calling out Alberta separatists en masse. BC's David Eby's calling it "treason". This, as American officials are (reportedly) meeting with an unelected, unofficial, and unserious delegation led by lawyer Jeff Rath. We get into it - along with the Canada-US relationship, the Canada-China trade deal, and the contentious F-35 fighter jet order - with longtime politician, diplomat, and CEO of the Canada West Foundation Gary Mar (4:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ 45:00 | Heated Rivalry is now Crave's all-time most-watched series. Prime Minister Mark Carney just appeared with one of the show's stars - Hudson Williams - on a red carpet in Ottawa. More people than ever before are talking about LGBTQ2S+ inclusion in sport. This, as Edmonton-designed Pride Tape celebrates its ten year anniversary. Pride Tape co-founders Senator Kristopher Wells and Jeff McLean join our Real Talk Round Table to discuss. TELL US YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com PRIDE TAPE: https://pridetape.com/ SILENT AUCTION LINK for SIX CLUB TICKETS to OILERS/WILD on JAN. 31: https://www.32auctions.com/organizations/135812/auctions/195160/auction_items/6707590 1:47:00 | Real Talkers Glenn and Tractor Dave have hot takes on Alberta's separatist movement; Keltie, Laura, and Les are fired up over our coverage of changes to disability benefits in Alberta; and Melvin has a geography lesson for Jespo. It's The Flamethrower presented by our amazing 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, or 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.
There's little doubt Pierre Poilievre will survive his leadership review at Conservative Convention in Calgary. The question is, what tone will he set, how will he manage Trump supporters and Alberta separatists, and which direction will the party adopt moving forward? Podcaster and former (United) Conservative staffer Erika Barootes talks it out from Calgary (3:40) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 41:20 | We dip into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your takes on Conservative Convention 2026. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 47:10 | Albertans are rallying around former Jasper resident "Vrato" Durech, who's lucky to be alive after falling 40 metres while ice climbing in Colorado. In this week's "Alberta Wins" presented by Play Alberta, we celebrate the community spirit behind a GoFundMe to cover emergency medical air transport to bring Vrato home. GOFUNDME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-bring-vratislav-home-for-ongoing-medical-care THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 54:00 | Real Talkers have a LOT to say about Alberta axing disability supports. Shyla, Wendy, and Amanda share their families' stories in response to our Real Talk Round Table on the shift from ADAP to AISH. TELL US YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com WATCH THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/012826ADAP 1:12:30 | Looking for club seats to the Edmonton Oilers/Minnesota Wild game on Saturday, January 31? We've got six up for auction in support of the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic! Auction closes January 31 at 2pm MT. ENTER YOUR BID: https://www.32auctions.com/RTPondHock... 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 rolling back benefits for nearly 80,000 people with disabilities with its new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP). Amidst steep cost of living increases, benefits are being cut by 10% alongside a 67% cut to fully-exempt employment income. We talk to Inclusion Alberta CEO Trish Bowman and Real Talker Averie, an advocate for adults with mental illness, in our feature interview (4:00) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. SHARE YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ INCLUSION ALBERTA: https://inclusionalberta.org/adap-facts-and-take-action/ ADAP: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program 47:00 | Get your neon ski suits out of storage - it's Retro Day in Jasper on January 31! We've got details in #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. JASPER in JANUARY: https://www.jasper.travel/january/ MARMOT BASIN: https://www.skimarmot.com/ 52:15 | The Bank of Canada maintains the key interest rate at 2.25%. Premiers in Saskatchewan and Ontario have very different takes on Mark Carney's deal with China. Alberta separatists are ramping up efforts around their petition. What does it all mean for Alberta businesses? Shauna Feth, president and CEO of Alberta Chambers of Commerce, has her Eye on Alberta Business. CONNECT with ACC: https://www.abchamber.ca/ TAKE THE HOT BUTTON ISSUE SURVEY: https://research.albertaperspectives.ca/jfe/form/SV_0GOnjhL52yHpCm2 1:19:20 | Real Talkers have a lot to say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:52:15 | We're auctioning off six club tickets to the Oilers game vs. the Minnesota Wild on Saturday, January 31 along with (optional) Golden Bus transportation from Central Social Hall St. Albert to Rogers Place that evening. All proceeds from this amazing auction item generously donated by Play Alberta will go toward the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic's fundraising for KidSport and Uncles and Aunts at Large. ENTER YOUR BID: https://www.32auctions.com/RTPondHockey2026 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.
Canadians are waiting way too long in emergency rooms. Dr. Andrew Boozary, executive director at the Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine at Toronto's University Health Network and founder of Dunn House, explains how they've cut ER visits by 52% and length of stays by 79% (5:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. Stick around for former Jason Kenney staffer Blaise Boehmer's behind-the-scenes story (42:00) of the then-Alberta premier introducing recall legislation (and why Blaise thought it was a mistake from the start). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ MORE on DUNN HOUSE: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/housing-shelter/building-affordable-homes/housing-initiatives/supportive-housing-developments/90-dunn-ave/ CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW on BRIDGE HEALING at the ROYAL ALEX: https://rtrj.info/112825Bridge 1:17:00 | Are you an audiophile? Are you looking for the best bang-for-buck headphones on the market? Real Talker MetaModern tees up an interesting conversation. ($60,000 for headphones?!) 1:32:00 | Jespo and Johnny dip into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power to hear Cassandra's story of living on the edge of homelessness. SHARE YOUR 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.
It's been a wild few days in the United States. Another U.S. citizen is dead at the hands of ICE agents, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is publicly endorsing Alberta separatism, and President Donald Trump is threatening 100% tariffs on Canada following PM Mark Carney's deal with China. We get into it all with Supriya Dwivedi (3:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:15:00 | Real Talkers share their family's rules on screen time, social media access, etc. in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: 1:32:30 | Real Talker Lisa in B.C. has this week's Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby. We love to hear it - welcome to the family, Lisa! SUBMIT YOUR 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.
Real Talker Michael deploys more f-bombs per minute than anybody in Flamethrower history with his message to the White House, Brendon lays out the real world cost of Alberta separation talk, Gerald's torn on the "leaked classroom audio" story, and Watty's got a proposal for a PST in Alberta. 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, or 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 two main parties - the UCP and NDP - are polling neck and neck. We dig into the new numbers with Liaison Strategies pollster David Valentin (3:00), before taking a look at updated federal numbers and a shocking reality around hospital emergency rooms across Canada. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ LIAISON STRATEGIES: https://www.liaison.ca/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 42:00 | Jespo and Johnny dip into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power to see what you have to say about Liaison's polling numbers. We get into high-profile responses to PM Mark Carney's Davos speech (1:09:30) and President Donald Trump's inaccurate and offensive statement about NATO member nations. (Make sure you stick around for Jespo's poop analogy.) TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 2:05:00 | Real Talker Michael deploys more f-bombs per minute than anybody in Flamethrower history with his message to the White House, Brendon lays out the real world cost of Alberta separation talk, Gerald's torn on the "leaked classroom audio" story, and Watty's got a proposal for a PST in Alberta. 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, or 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 emergency rooms are described as "death zones" in a shocking report leaked to Real Talk. Six deaths and a few dozen "critical near-misses" over a two week period are front and centre in our extended conversation with Dr. Paul Parks (4:00), a southern Alberta ER doc and past-president of the Alberta Medical Association. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ SHARE YOUR HEALTHCARE EXPERIENCE: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:12:40 | Did you know Alberta's U18 boys AND girls football teams won national championships in overtime this past season? This incredible achievement is shared by Real Talker Johnny K for Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 1:15:50 | What are your early money memories? What are your family values around finances? Cary Williams from North Road Investment Counsel joins Ryan in our historic Mercer Warehouse studio with great insights for a new year. Let us know what you think about his comments on tightwads and spendthrifts - leave a reply below! SNOWBIRDS! CHECK OUT NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL's MEXICO WORKSHOPS: https://www.northroadic.com/mxevents We've got room for ONE more team at the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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.
More than two dozen Alberta MLAs are facing recall petitions. Is this really the best way to hold politicians accountable? We ask AB Resistance founder Marg Tokar - a "lifelong Conservative" - why she's helping organize campaigns across the province (4:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. CHECK OUT AB RESISTANCE: https://abresistance.ca/ 1:10:00 | We dip into our Live Chat presented by Park Power to see what Real Talkers think about the recall process. (Not everybody agrees.) SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:26:30 | Did you hear what U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said about Canada's North? Or Greenlandic politician Tillie Martinussen's comment about American greed? How about Beijing's response to the "China threat" Trump's using to justify his position on Greenland? And then there's California Governor Gavin Newsom's rant at WEF meetings in Davos, Switzerland. We've got you covered. 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.
More than two dozen Alberta MLAs are facing recall petitions. Is this really the best way to hold politicians accountable? We ask AB Resistance founder Marg Tokar - a "lifelong Conservative" - why she's helping organize campaigns across the province (4:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. CHECK OUT AB RESISTANCE: https://abresistance.ca/ 1:10:00 | We dip into our Live Chat presented by Park Power to see what Real Talkers think about the recall process. (Not everybody agrees.) SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:26:30 | Did you hear what U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said about Canada's North? Or Greenlandic politician Tillie Martinussen's comment about American greed? How about Beijing's response to the "China threat" Trump's using to justify his position on Greenland? And then there's California Governor Gavin Newsom's rant at WEF meetings in Davos, Switzerland. We've got you covered. 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.
Did PM Mark Carney's "Canola for EVs" deal with China really split Canadians? Auto workers in Ontario may not love lifting tariffs on Chinese EVs, but that doesn't make it the wrong move, argues Supriya Dwivedi (3:00). We talk Trump's Board of Peace proposal (43:00), Steve Bannon's inflammatory comments about Canada (51:20), Iran (1:00:30), and the Federal Court of Appeal's ruling on the Emergencies Act ending the Freedom Convoy Ottawa Occupation (1:04:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:13:20 | Jespo and Johnny debrief and dip into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:33:10 | Did you catch that remarkable moment in the Jacksonville Jags' news conference following the Wild Card loss to the Buffalo Bills? Real Talker Justin submits reporter Lynn Jones-Turpin's comments to coach Liam Coen for this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. SUBMIT YOUR 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.
Real Talkers Erin and AJ have thoughts on the Canada-China trade deal; Laura, Lisa, Natasha, and Gerald are fired up over the "defund private schools" debate; Josef is "terrified" of civil war in the USA, Travis has heard enough excuses about Edmonton's snow clearing debacle, the "thesco" has a direct question for Jespo. 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, or 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.
Audio leaked from an Alberta classroom is causing a stir, as a high school teacher parodies Conservative stereotypes including references to the oil and gas industry. Premier Danielle Smith uses her X account to amplify the 90-second clip originally shared by a right wing content creator, stating she's "deeply disappointed" by "profanity, partisan attacks, or insults toward Alberta's ethical energy workers and their families." What do you think about it? We hit the story out of the gates (3:30) and later (1:19:30) in this episode of Real Talk. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 27:30 | Are you comfortable using public transit? Transit safety is a key concern for riders, operators, and city officials across Canada. We talk solutions with experts and advocates David Cooper, Denis Agar, and Daniel Witte to our Real Talk Round Table presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. LEADING MOBILITY: https://www.leadingmobility.com/ MOVEMENT - METRO VANCOUVER TRANSIT RIDERS: https://movementyvr.ca/ EDMONTON TRANSIT RIDERS: https://edmontontransitriders.org/ MICHAEL JANZ EVENT DETAILS: https://www.michaeljanz.ca/movementAMA "ON THE FRONT LINE" DOCUMENTARY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e63FFFZdHg 1:56:15 | Real Talkers Erin and AJ have thoughts on the Canada-China trade deal; Laura, Lisa, Natasha, and Gerald are fired up over the "defund private schools" debate; Josef is "terrified" of civil war in the USA, Travis has heard enough excuses about Edmonton's snow clearing debacle, the "thesco" has a direct question for Jespo. 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, or 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 funds private and independent schools at a higher level than any other province, but spends less per public school student than anywhere else in the country. Alicia Taylor, a Calgary high school teacher, is trying to change that. She tells us about her citizen initiative petition Alberta Funds Public Schools (3:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ LEARN MORE: https://abfundspublicschools.ca/ CHECK OUT OUR OCT. 22 INTERVIEW WITH AISCA: https://rtrj.info/102225AISCA 32:30 | Our Live Chat powered by Park Power is HUMMING with a ton of different takes on education funding in Alberta (and across the country). If you've got something to add but you missed watching this episode live, send us an email to talk@ryanjspersen.com. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 1:12:00 | Did you know Alberta is home to Canada's only companion bird rescue, rehab, and rehoming organization? We had no idea until Real Talker "Cloud9117" told us about Meika's Safehouse. We're proud to shine a light on this super cool organization in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. MEIKA'S SAFEHOUSE: https://www.meikasbirdhouse.com/safehouse#available-for-adoption THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 1:17:00 | Jespo and Johnny dip back into the Live Chat for more takes on education funding. 1:27:00 | It's absolute mayhem in Minnesota, with another civilian shot by ICE agents. Registration is open for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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.
RCMP arrested award-winning photojournalist Amber Bracken in 2021 while she was covering the Wet'suwet'en pipeline standoff in Northern B.C. for The Narwhal. Now, both Bracken and The Narwhal are suing the RCMP for what they say was a concerted campaign to limit press freedom. We connect with Amber Bracken and Narwhal co-founder Carol Linnitt (35:00) just moments before they head to court in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. HIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. But first... 6:00 | Thousands of Canadians are calling on the feds to ban X, Elon Musk's social media platform formerly known as Twitter. This, after revelations the platform's Grok AI tool is being used to generate sexualized images of children and unconsenting adults. But is a ban really the right move? We ask tech expert and SiriusXM host Amber MacArthur. MORE FROM AMBER MAC: https://ambermac.com/ 35:00 | Amber Bracken and Carol Linnitt update us on The Narwhal's court battle against the RCMP. LEARN MORE/SUPPORT AMBER & THE NARWHAL: https://thenarwhal.ca/press-freedom/ 59:10 | Jespo shares a few memories from his magical weekend in Jasper, and tees up a couple upcoming events you've got to check out during Jasper in January! #MyJasper Memories is presented Wednesdays on Real Talk by our friends at Tourism Jasper. APRES WINE: https://www.jasper.travel/january/events/apres-wine/ MOUNTAIN MALANKA: https://www.jasper.travel/january/events/mountain-malanka/ 1:07:45 | Ryan's struck by an apology in the Live Chat. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com Registration is open for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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 meets with Coastal First Nations leaders before heading to China for Canada's first formal PM visit since 2017. This, amid uncertainty in Venezuela. Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot and Max Fawcett talk implications (3:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2026/01/12/opinion/twitter-x-musk-canada-politicians MORE FROM HEATHER: https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/cm-expert/heather-exner-pirot/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 33:45 | Max sticks around to talk about Chinese EV tariffs (and what Canadians want), plus we get to an interesting email on coal and steel production from Real Talker Marcus, P.Eng (1:00:00) and a remarkable statement from Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal (1:10:30). 55:45 | Real Talker Sara leads off this edition of Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. Then, we hear about Frances and Roy's incredible connection to The Alex. SUPPORT THE ROYAL ALEX: https://givetoroyalalex.org/ Registration is open for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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.
Venezuela. Greenland. Iran. A Minnesota mom is dead, and ICE protests continue across the country. POTUS is threatening to indict the Federal Reserve Chair. You could argue all hell has *already* broken loose in the United States, but is the nation headed toward a legit breaking point? Supriya Dwivedi gets into it (3:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 38:10 | Where should PM Mark Carney's focus be in China, and what would define a successful visit? Supriya tells us what she's keeping an eye on. Plus, should Canada (and other countries) consider banning X if the platform can't prevent users from using its AI tool to generate sexual deepfakes (45:45)? 1:19:30 | Did you see Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann honouring a deceased fan by wearing his grocery store vest to a game over the weekend? Real Talker Landon submits his Positive Reflection, proudly presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby. SUBMIT YOUR 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.
Denise is appalled by the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis, KP's thrilled to see the US in Venezuela, Don's bracing for WWIII, and Joe from Airdrie figures we should cap independence referendums, and Mr. Dad has a warning for Calgarians. 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, or 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.
Former Poilievre comms director Ben Woodfinden and former Notley cabinet minister Shannon Phillips respond to our exclusive with former AHS CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos (4:30), share their thoughts on the fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota (22:15), give a Canadian perspective on the Venezuela "situation" (37:15), debate the merits of dropping tariffs on Chinese EVs (45:30), and predict whether or not we'll see another federal election in 2026 (50:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 52:30 | We see what Real Talkers have to say about the Minneapolis tragedy in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:07:30 | Real Talker Jim worked for Alberta Health Services for 13 years. He chimes in on what we heard from Athana Mentzelopoulos. WATCH THE ATHANA INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/010826Athana 1:13:25 | Congratulations to the Apex Icebreakers, winners of the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic Early Bird Prize! Make sure you register your team for the 2026 RTPHC before it sells out, and we'll see you in St. Albert on January 31! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 1:19:30 | Denise is appalled by the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis, KP's thrilled to see the US in Venezuela, Don's bracing for WWIII, and Joe from Airdrie figures we should cap independence referendums at one per century. 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, or 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.
Athana Mentzelopoulos is the former President and CEO of Alberta Health Services. She was fired by the Alberta government exactly one year ago for what the province calls "alarming incompetence" and an inability to carry out the mandates she was given. She says that's not true. In a $1.7M wrongful-dismissal lawsuit, Mentzelopoulos alleges she was fired because she refused to shut down an internal investigation into procurement practices at AHS, including concerns about contracts, private providers, and how public dollars were being spent. She also claims since her termination, she's faced an ongoing campaign of intimidation and harassment tied to speaking up. Until now, Athana Mentzelopoulos has not granted any interviews. In this episode of Real Talk, she speaks publicly (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY -- ROOTED IN PRAIRIE GRIT AND A REBELLIOUS SPIRIT. PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. HANSEN DISTILLERY IS MADE RIGHT, RIGHT HERE. https://hansendistillery.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:34:45 | Shout out to Canadian snowboarder Elizabeth Hosking, who just earned gold in the women's halfpipe at the Calgary stop of the FIS Snowboard World Cup! We feature Hosking's ground-breaking achievement in this edition of Alberta Wins proudly presented by Play Alberta. THERE'S A MAJOR CASINO WINNER EVERY HOUR WITH PLAY ALBERTA, AND ALL REVENUE STAYS RIGHT HERE IN THE PROVINCE. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP TODAY TO GET STARTED WITH CASINO, SPORTS, AND LOTTERY ALL IN ONE APP. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. https://playalberta.ca/ 1:39:00 | Jespo drops into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power to see what you have to say about the Mentzelopoulos interview. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: 1:55:15 | Registration is open for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! SIGN UP TODAY: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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.
Did Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre put Canada in a tough spot by praising President Donald Trump's action in Venezuela? Sharan Kaur argues yes (3:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. A NOTE FROM RYAN: Thirty seconds after we wrapped this episode, I learned of Anna Murphy's passing. Just weeks ago - on November 19 - Anna joined us (with her heart on her sleeve), speaking passionately about mental health challenges facing the Trans community and the urgent need for better supports to address disproportionate (and heartbreaking) rates of suicide. I'll forever respect her advocacy and admire Anna's courage. Our deepest condolences and much love to her family and wide circle of friends.
Donald Trump wants Greenland. European leaders are pushing back. What's Canada's best play, all things considered? National Post columnist Rahim Mohamed leads us off (7:00) with a look at comments from Stephen Miller and Bob Rae, and the biggest issue facing Mark Carney. Plus, could Alberta separatists actually face charges for meeting with US State Department officials (20:00)? Did Chrystia Freeland step in one (32:00) with her Ukraine advisory announcement? And how are things looking for Pierre Poilievre heading into his CPC leadership review (35:00)? We get into it all. (Forgive us for the YouTube audio glitch from 14:00-17:20. The podcast audio is crystal clear if you'd like to catch Rahim's full comments there.) THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ 53:00 | Humans have so much to learn from bears. Nobody tells the story more passionately than Trina Moyles, who joins Ryan in studio the day her new book "Black Bear: A Story of Siblinghood and Survival" hits shelves." CHECK OUT THE BOOK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/742032/black-bear-by-trina-moyles/9781039010161 FOLLOW TRINA on IG: https://www.instagram.com/trinariannemoyles/?hl=en 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.
As dictator Nicolás Maduro appears before a New York judge, the international community is debating American military intervention in Venezuela, and what it could mean for other countries including Canada. Former PMO senior advisor Supriya Dwivedi gives us her take (6:00) in our first feature interview of 2026, 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 SAVE 50% WITH THE EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE RYAN50 ON THE ONLINE PORTAL AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 39:00 | Alberta separatist Jeff Rath figures Jespo should be added to the United States' No Fly List. As you can imagine, we've got thoughts. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 51:00 | Tragedy struck an Edmonton family on December 22, when 44-year-old father Prasant Sreekumar died after waiting eight hours for urgent care. Alberta Medical Association president Dr. Brian Wirzba was at the Grey Nuns Hospital that day. He tells us how deadly incidents like this can be avoided in future. AMA: https://www.albertadoctors.org/ 1:16:50 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on Venezuela, ER wait times, and other topics teed up in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:40:00 | Real Talker Jan shouts out the shovelers in her neck of the woods in this edition of Positive Reflections proudly 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.
Randy Boissonnault just endured "the worst year of (his) life". The embattled former Trudeau cabinet minister and Edmonton-Centre MP makes Real Talk his first stop on a redemption tour (3:15) following a court ruling in his favour in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ 34:00 | Santa Claus joins us from the Fairmont Banff Springs, and gives Real Talk an exclusive sneak peek into what the highest-profile politicians can expect under the tree this year... 43:00 | Jespo and Supriya Dwivedi discuss Randy Boissonnault's potential return to politics, year-end interviews from PM Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre, and whether or not Australia's new law re: kids and social media would be a good fit in Canada. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:18:00 | Jespo and Johnny get into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:31:30 | We appreciate you, Real Talkers! Ryan shares some mind-blowing stats from Spotify Wrapped in a year-end 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.
Real Talkers Todd and Jenny are fired up over our December 9 interview with Premier Danielle Smith, Laura takes issue with Jespo's comments on private laundry services at hospitals, Michael's frustrated with "culture wars of the week," Marion supports Skate Canada's decision to boycott Alberta, Dwight sounds the alarm on orphan well clean-up, and Brian has thoughts on being forced to pay for the COVID vaccine. It's an "airing of grievances" edition 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU! Register your team for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic before New Year's Eve and qualify for our early bird prize including six tickets (and Golden Bus transportation) to the Oilers/Wild game on January 31! SIGN UP to PLAY, SPONSOR, or VOLUNTEER: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 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.
Before he was a Senator, Charles Adler held court as one of Canada's most prominent talk radio hosts. In this episode, the longtime purveyor of "Canadian Common Sense" gives us his take on recent federal floor crossings (3:45), Pierre Poilievre's upcoming leadership review (10:00), rumblings around a Jason Kenney Conservative leadership run (18:20), and the differences between Liberal and Conservative platforms (aided by emails from Real Talkers Cliff and Kyle at 23:45). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ Real Talk feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 29:30 | Register your team for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic before New Year's Eve and qualify for our early bird prize including six tickets (and Golden Bus transportation) to the Oilers/Wild game on January 31! SIGN UP to PLAY, SPONSOR, or VOLUNTEER: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 35:15 | Senator Adler gets personal about the Bondi Beach terror attack before commenting on what's happening in Venezuela (46:30), and sharing his Canadian Political Story of 2025 (51:00). We hear MP Michelle Rempel Garner's take on floor crossings back in 2011 (1:08:30), and discuss a potential Alberta independence referendum in 2026 (1:13:00). TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:28:00 | Real Talkers Todd and Jenny are fired up over our December 9 interview with Premier Danielle Smith, Laura takes issue with Jespo's comments on private laundry services at hospitals, Michael's frustrated with "culture wars of the week," Marion supports Skate Canada's decision to boycott Alberta, Dwight sounds the alarm on orphan well clean-up, and Brian has thoughts on being forced to pay for the COVID vaccine. It's an "airing of grievances" edition 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, or 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.
Whatever Donald Trump's doing in Venezuela, it'll have a major effect on Alberta's bottom line. We break it down in a special year-end edition of the Real Talk Round Table (6:00) with Nathan Mison (Diplomat Consulting), Michaela Frey (Alberta Counsel), Jason Hatcher (Navigator), and Shauna Feth (President and CEO, Alberta Chambers of Commerce). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, A PROUD MADE-IN-ALBERTA SOLUTION OFFERING CRYPTO YOUR WAY. FIRST-TIME USERS SAVE 50% WITH THE EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE RYAN50 ON THE ONLINE PORTAL AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/ ALBERTA CHAMBERS of COMMERCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/ Real Talk's feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:06:00 | We dive into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power to see what you have to say about Alberta's outlook for 2026. 1:19:45 | Did you see the insane dunk grade 12 student Jordan Hunter threw down at Jasper Place High School? How could we not feature it in Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta?! USE PROMO CODE RYAN50 TO SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WITH MINIMUM $50 DEPOSIT ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR AT https://playalberta.ca/. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. 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.
Minister of Justice Sean Fraser has "real concerns" about provinces using the Charter's Notwithstanding Clause to circumvent Canada's courts. He talks to us about that, gun regulation (and reflections on the Bondi Beach attack), and plans for an Alberta provincial police service (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 22:00 and 31:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Fraser interview, including 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/ 29:45 | Registration is open for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, January 31 in St. Albert! Sign up by New Year's Eve to qualify for our early bird prize including six tickets to the Oilers/Wild game that night and transportation to the rink in the Golden Bus. RTPHC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 50:00 | Tough one for Stuart Skinner in his first game against the Edmonton Oilers. We take a second to toast Leon Draisaitl's 1000th point. 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.
Dr. Raj Sherman's been working in Emergency Rooms for more than 30 years. He's served as an MLA for two different parties, and he recently wrapped his term as chair of Health Quality Alberta. He explains why Alberta's making a big move in the wrong direction on healthcare reform in our feature interview (4:00) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ READ DR. SHERMAN'S OP/ED: https://edmontonjournal.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-fix-health-cares-foundation-before-adding-dual-practice 41:00 | "There is something that goes on between life and death." We share a remarkable story from the Royal Alexandra Hospital ER in this edition of Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. GIVE THE GIFT OF HISTORY: https://www.royalalex.org/125years DONATE IN HONOUR OF SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT: https://www.royalalex.org/year-end-giving 46:00 | Country star Corb Lund is all fired up over his previously-approved petition against coal mining in the Eastern Slopes being cancelled. He's got a thing or two to say about our December 9 interview with Premier Danielle Smith, too. JOIN CORB'S FIGHT: https://www.coalpetition.ca/ 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.
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