The Evan Bray Show

A shoebox full of memories and fragments of friendship was all part of a journey spanning from Kelvington to India, in hopes of reuniting with a childhood friend. Ken Blosser, a Saskatchewan author of The Loyal Order of Old School Chums, joins the show to talk about his novel and the lasting hope of enduring friendship.

You're quick & clever! And for some weird reason you've carried the right answer in your head for years. Or maybe you just trust Uncle Google. It's time for Saskatchewan's Smartest Radio Listener for Little Town Apparel -- your chance for fame and acclaim and to prove just how smart you are. Not only do you get bragging rights, you'll win prizes too!

Massive violence erupted in Mexico on Sunday following a military operation that killed the country's most wanted and feared cartel leader, known as El Mencho. Who was this notorious kingpin? What criminal empire did he control? And what might unfold now that he's gone? David Kirton is joined by David Mora, Senior Mexico analyst at International Crisis Group.

Evan catches up with Regina's Chief of Police, Lorilee Davies, to talk about local crime statistics, how the city is doing in 2026 and what information people in Regina should be aware of.

Saskatchewan's next provincial budget is just around the corner, and there are reports that it could include a deficit of close to one billion dollars. Jason Childs, University of Regina professor of economics, joins the show to break down why we could see such a large deficit and what this means for the people of Saskatchewan.

Canada's federal artificial intelligence minister has summoned senior safety officials from OpenAI to Ottawa after it emerged the company banned the ChatGPT account of a teenager who later carried out the deadly school shooting in Tumbler Ridge. Officials are now demanding answers about OpenAI's safety protocols — including when and how the company decides to alert law enforcement. David is joined by Brian McQuinn, associate professor at the University of Regina and co-director of the Centre for Artificial Intelligence, Data and Conflict, to discuss how AI platforms handle flagged violent content and where accountability should lie.

Last night, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union Address, laying out his priorities ahead of the midterms. Kelly Malone, Washington correspondent for the Canadian Press, followed the speech and the response from lawmakers and voters alike. She joins guest host David Kirton now to break down the mood of the speech, the political stakes and what this could mean for the midterm election.

A federal report shows Canada's Interim Federal Health Program — which provides health coverage to asylum seekers, including some whose claims have been rejected — is projected to cost around $1.5 billion annually by 2030. Conservative MPs, including our next guest Michelle Rempel Garner, the Conservative MP for Calgary Nose Hill and Critic for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, are calling for a review of the program and want benefits for rejected claimants limited to emergency care only.

A new report shows that provinces across the country lack transparency when it comes to our healthcare system and getting life-saving surgery on time. Bacchus Barua, Research Director for SecondStreet.org and co-author of the More Transparency Could Save Patients' Lives report, joins the show to discuss what he found and if better communication could actually save lives.

Saskatchewan has a massive debt problem, that's what Gage Haubrich, Canadian Taxpayers Federation Prairie Director, says. He joins David to chat about how Saskatchewan fell into this debt and what he's calling on the province to do to dig itself out and rethink how taxpayer dollars are being used.

Parents are sounding the alarm about thousands of students with disabilities missing school across the province. Last week, we heard from a former principal and director of the Saskatchewan Down Syndrome Society about what's going on. Now, we hear from Everett Hindley, Saskatchewan's Minister of Education on how the government is responding.

While we reflect on the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it's important to highlight those doing what they can to help. Nick Bettin is a building maintenance technician from Saskatoon who volunteered to help Ukraine. He joins the show to share why he volunteered in the rebuilding effort and what it was like working on the ground, sometimes dealing with a dozen missile strikes in one day.

The four year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine has its own impact here in Saskatchewan. Danylo Puderak, executive director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan Provincial Council, joins David to share how things have changed over the years, what challenges remain and what this anniversary means for Ukrainians here at home and abroad.

A Saskatchewan entrepreneur just scored BIG on Dragons' Den! Tyler Harlton is the co-owner of ONES, Canada's first non-alcoholic winery, and he walked away with $1-million after pitching his business to the Dragons. He joins the show to chat about this experience and what's next for ONES.

Four years ago, the world watched as war broke out in Ukraine, and the human cost has been immense. Guest host David Kirton is joined by Angela Hill, Humanitarian and Communications Delegate with The Red Cross about the impact on ordinary people and how The Red Cross is helping those people on the ground live and rebuild their lives.

The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked President Trump from using “emergency” powers to put tariffs on Canadian goods. Canada is safer from sudden tariffs going forward, but Trump could still use other rules that would hit some provinces and industries harder than others. Taylor is joined by Carlo Dade, director for international policy and the New North America Initiative at the School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary to talk about whether this ruling makes things better or worse for Canada.

Tomorrow night, The Comedy Pit showcases up-and-coming comedians honing their clean stand-up routines. Taylor welcomes in studio Ari Avivi, Producer at The Comedy Pit, and 84-year-old stand-up comedian Joe Sikora, who performed his very first set there this January!

Guest host Taylor MacPherson catches up with Saskatoon's Chief of Police, Cam McBride, to talk local crime statistics, how the city is doing in 2026 and what information people in Saskatchewan need to know.

Iran is facing unrest and pressure over its nuclear program and human rights record. President Trump has warned Tehran to negotiate a meaningful deal or face “bad things” and is considering limited military strikes if diplomacy fails. To talk about this and Iran's unrest more broadly Taylor is joined by Kaveh Shahrooz, Senior Fellow at the Macdonald Laurier Institute.

A newly released report from Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC), finds that rising costs of living, and global uncertainty are taking a measurable toll on Canadians' mental health. The message is clear: good mental health doesn't just feel good - it is an economic imperative and is essential to building a strong, resilient economy in 2026 and beyond. To talk about the report Taylor speaks with Akela Peoples, CEO of Mental Health Research Canada.

Canadians in Jalisco, including popular tourist spot Puerto Vallarta, have been ordered to shelter in place after violence erupted in the region, with criminal groups setting up roadblocks and burning vehicles as clashes intensify. The federal government is warning travelers to keep a low profile and follow local authority instructions while it monitors the situation and flights into the area have been cancelled. TO hear what it is like on the ground we have Alex Docking on the line, he's a former broadcaster on vacation in Puerto Vallarta.

Canada's men's hockey team fell 2‑1 to the U.S. in sudden‑death overtime for the silver, echoing the women's team, which also lost 2‑1 in OT. Taylor chats with Scott Roblin, 650 CKOM Sports Reporter, for a recap of both games and a wrap-up of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

On Friday the U.S. Supreme court overturned Donald Trump's emergency tariffs, ruling that he overstepped his authority by imposing them without proper legal justification. However, Trump says he plans to fight the ruling and look for other legal and political avenues to reimpose the tariffs. Premier Moe joins guest host Taylor MacPherson to talk about what all this means for trade relations with the USA.

A Saskatchewan map maker is creating detailed wall maps that show historical farmland layouts, including buildings, old roads and first homesteader names using 1950s aerial photography and archived land data, helping families reconnect with their agricultural heritage. To talk about these historical farm maps we're talking to Alex McPhee, Saskatchewan cartographer.

Inspired by Taiwan: Why Supporting Taiwan Matters for Global Democracy argues that Taiwan—a vibrant democracy, global tech leader, and defender of civil liberties—stands on the front lines of the fight for democratic values amid growing pressure from China. Author George Takach joins guest host Tamara Cherry to explain why supporting Taiwan is not just strategic, but a moral imperative for democracies worldwide.

On Wednesday Team Canada's men's hockey team punched its ticket to the 2026 Winter Olympics semifinals with a dramatic 4–3 overtime comeback win over Czechia in the quarterfinals, highlighted by a late tying goal and an OT winner from Mitch Marner. Right now they take on defending champions Finland in the Olympic men's hockey semifinals.

What time is it? It's Eatin' Time! with Belton Johnson - powered by the Saskatchewan Cattle Association! Grillmaster Belton Johnson joins Tamara with his recipe for crockpot taco soup.

Every Friday, we open the phone lines and give you a chance to call out or commend anyone you think deserves it. Call 1-877-332-8255 and join the conversation!

Saskatchewan's small businesses are facing rising costs, weak demand, and a tax system that discourages investment. Tamara Cherry talks with Brianna Solberg, CFIB's Director of Legislative Affairs for the Prairies and Northern Canada, about these urgent challenges.

A provocative new policy paper warns that Canada is dangerously behind in recognizing a converging threat, where organized crime, terrorism, and state-sponsored hybrid warfare are no longer separate challenges but part of a single, interconnected web. Published this week by the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, the paper argues that countries such as Russia, Iran, and China are increasingly using criminal networks as proxies on Canadian soil. We are joined by one of the paper's authors, Calvin Chrustie, a senior partner at Critical Risk Team and a leading voice on transnational organized crime and national security.

On Wednesday, Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux crossed the floor from the Conservatives to join Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal caucus, despite representing a riding in Edmonton that has never elected a Liberal MP. Should politicians who cross the floor be required to face a by-election and be accountable to their constituents? This actually happened in Saskatchewan in 1998, when Buckley Belanger crossed from the Liberals to the NDP, and the NDP required him to resign and win a by-election. To discuss how that unfolded and whether such a policy should be legislated, guest host Tamara Cherry is joined by Dwain Lingenfelter, former leader of the Saskatchewan NDP.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office and remains in custody. The arrest is believed to be linked to his role as a UK trade envoy and follows the release of emails connected to Jeffrey Epstein. To talk more about this development Amanda Matta, Royal Commentator joins the show.

Hospitality Saskatchewan and partner hotel associations have launched “Not in Our Hotel”, a free training program that equips hotel staff across Canada to spot and respond to human trafficking. The program gives employees practical tools, from online courses to on-the-job guides, empowering the industry to protect victims and ensure hotels are safe spaces. To talk about this initiative Jim Bence, President and CEO of Hospitality Saskatchewan is on the show.

What's happening in the world of technology this week? Guest host Tamara Cherry is joined by Carmi Levy, technology analyst and journalist, to talk about the top tech news in your feed.

Tamara chats with Mayor of Saskatoon, Cynthia Block, for her monthly mayoral panel check-in. Mayor Block takes Evan's and your questions and gives an update on the City of Saskatoon's state of affairs.

The toonie turns 30 today! After national consultations and a public survey chose wildlife as the theme, artists submitted designs—Tamara is joined by Brent Townsend, the wildlife and landscape artist who created the iconic polar bear featured on the coin.

Last week's shooting in Tumbler Ridge was deeply traumatic for an entire community — students, parents, educators, and first responders alike. Tamara is joined by Nick Carleton, Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Regina and an expert in first-responder mental health, to talk about what Saskatchewan's first-responder community has learned about supporting people before, during, and after traumatic events.

Ottawa is buzzing with snap-election speculation, but politicians insist it's not on their minds. Tamara speaks with Shannon Proudfoot, Globe and Mail Ottawa bureau feature writer, about her recent piece “The thing everyone is talking about but no one is thinking about in Ottawa politics.”

Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux has crossed the floor from the Conservatives to join Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal caucus, becoming the third Conservative lawmaker in recent months to defect and inching the Liberals closer to a majority in the House of Commons. His move comes just months after announcing plans to resign, and highlights growing tensions within the Conservative Party. To talk about the drama in Ottawa guest host Tamara Cherry is joined by Vassy Kapelos, chief parliamentary correspondent and host of Power Play and Question Period for CTV, and host of The Vassy Kapelos Show.

A simple safety device created in Regina to help first responders and caregivers reunite people with communication challenges who wander has grown into something much bigger. Thom Hamilton, Regina Dad and Founder of Next to Kin joins the show to talk about his invention.

You're quick & clever! And for some weird reason you've carried the right answer in your head for years. Or maybe you just trust Uncle Google. It's time for Saskatchewan's Smartest Radio Listener for Little Town Apparel -- your chance for fame and acclaim and to prove just how smart you are. Not only do you get bragging rights, you'll win prizes too! Call 1-877-332-8255 to play!

In early December, Inclusion Saskatchewan sounded the alarm, estimating that more than a thousand students with disabilities across the province were not allowed to attend school full-time during the 2024–25 year. In response, the Saskatchewan NDP is calling on the Provincial Ombudsman to investigate the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education and its policies. To understand what this looks like on the ground—and what it's doing to families and classrooms—guest host Tamara Cherry is joined by Ron Biberdorf, former principal of Martensville Elementary School, and Tammy Dunn, director of the Saskatchewan Down Syndrome Society.

Ever since President Trump first threatened to make Canada the 51st state and imposed new tariffs on Canadian goods back in March of last year, there's been a renewed push to “buy Canadian.” The threats haven't stopped—most recently, Trump said he might block the Gordie Howe International Bridge until Ottawa “treats the United States with the fairness and respect that we deserve.” So the drama continues—but how are Canadians feeling about our Southern neighbours? To break it down, we're joined by Mario Canseco, President of Research Co., to talk about their latest poll.

A big snowstorm is underway — some areas could see up to 35 cm of snow. Regina might get as much as 30 cm, while Saskatoon could see around 25 cm. That means it's time to grab the shovels, but how do we do it safely to protect our bodies? No one wants a pulled back or a tweaked shoulder, so to help us avoid injuries, Tamara is joined by Saskatoon physical therapist and yoga therapist Adrianne Vangool.

Mark Wiseman has arrived in Washington as Canada's new ambassador to the U.S., stepping into a high-stakes environment where trade tensions, tariffs, and unpredictable leadership from President Trump create major challenges. To talk about what challenges might await him, guest host Tamara Cherry chats with Adrian Morrow, U.S. correspondent for Globe & Mail.

Potash might not get the same attention as oil or gold, but it plays a critical role in feeding the world. And Steve Halabura, CEO of Buffalo Potash Corp, is taking a fresh approach to the industry. He joins the show to share why potash is becoming more important globally and how Buffalo plans to be part of that story.

"Con code" is a set of unwritten rules among inmates that can carry serious consequences if broken. Some say it's fueling violence even behind bars. Jacob Suelzle, Regional President of the Union of Correctional Officers in the Prairies, joins the show to chat and give us a clearer picture of what's really going on and how this can be stopped.

There's been a lot of discussion in White City lately around proposed rental housing developments, and not everyone is on board. Some say the plans could change the character of the community, and others argue that more housing is needed. Taylor de Gooijer, White City resident, joins the show to share how people in the community are feeling.

Evan goes to the phones to chat with listeners about what's on their minds today. Call 1-877-332-8255.

The long weekend was filled with athleticism at the Winter Olympics, even some Saskatchewan names are making headlines. Scott Roblin, 650 CKOM sports reporter, joins the show to recap the biggest stories and how many medals Team Canada has acquired so far.

Lunar New Year in 2026 begins on February 17, marking the start of the Year of the Horse. Celebrated across many cultures, the holiday is a time for family gatherings, traditional food, and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead. To talk about Lunar New Year right here in Saskatchewan, Evan has Dr. Helen Chang, Director, Chinese Cultural Society of Saskatchewan on the line.