The LeDrew Three Minute Interview

Former broadcaster and MPP Peter Shurman joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Canada's brain drain and why so many talented young entrepreneurs and innovators are choosing the United States over building businesses at home.Shurman argues that Canada still produces exceptionally talented graduates and promising new ideas, but lacks the venture capital, speed, and business environment needed to turn those ideas into successful Canadian companies.The conversation looks at lengthy government approval processes, limited access to risk capital and why ambitious young Canadians see the United States as a much more conducive place to finance and launch a company.LeDrew and Shurman also discuss what Canada could do differently — including faster approvals, stronger private investment and creating an environment where entrepreneurs can take risks without waiting years for government decisions.Topics covered in this episode:Canada's growing brain drainWhy young innovators move to the U.S.The shortage of venture capitalCanada's history of successful tech companiesGovernment approval delaysRisk-taking and startup investmentKeeping Canadian talent at homeAttracting private capitalFaster decisions for new projectsRebuilding Canada's innovation economy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Capobianco of FleishmanHillard joins Stephen LeDrew to ask whether Donald Trump and the Canada-U.S. trade dispute are changing the traditional relationship between the Prime Minister and Canada's Premiers.Normally, Ottawa speaks for Canada internationally while Premiers concentrate on their provinces. But Doug Ford, Wab Kinew, David Eby, Tim Houston and others have increasingly taken their own messages directly to Americans.Capobianco argues that rather than undermining Mark Carney, this could actually strengthen Canada's negotiating position. Carney can remain the chief negotiator while Premiers voice the anger and frustration Canadians feel — creating something resembling a national good-cop, bad-cop strategy.The conversation also looks at whether Premiers should spend even more time appearing on American television and building direct relationships with governors and state officials.Is this just a response to Trump — or the beginning of a different kind of Canadian federalism?Topics Covered:Premiers stepping onto the international stageWhether they strengthen or undermine CarneyDoug Ford's confrontational approachA Canadian good-cop, bad-cop strategyProvincial anger over U.S. tradeTaking Canada's case directly to AmericansPremiers appearing on U.S. televisionBuilding relationships with U.S. statesFederal-provincial cooperationWhether Trump is changing Canadian government Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Milke, President of the Aristotle Foundation, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss a growing frustration in Canada: the feeling that institutions making major decisions are increasingly disconnected from the people who live with the consequences.Milke argues that businesspeople and politicians face obvious reality checks — businesses fail, politicians lose elections — while people working within universities, courts and government institutions can sometimes advance without facing the same direct consequences for their ideas or decisions.The conversation turns to Canada's democratic system and whether citizens have enough influence between elections. Milke points to Switzerland and parts of the United States, where citizens can initiate referendums and put specific policies directly to a vote.He argues that Canada should consider similar reforms, pointing to the 1992 Charlottetown Accord referendum as an example of Canadians becoming deeply engaged when given a direct say on an important national question.Is voting every few years enough — or do Canadians need a more direct way to hold institutions accountable?Topics Covered:The decline of common senseInstitutions disconnected from everyday consequencesUniversities and public policyCourts and judicial decision-makingWhy Canadians feel powerlessElections as the main democratic checkCitizen-led referendumsSwitzerland and U.S. ballot initiativesThe Charlottetown Accord referendumGiving Canadians a more direct voice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss one of the biggest political questions hanging over the province: could Alberta actually separate from Canada?Smith says roughly 30% of Albertans currently support leaving Canada — a number she says is far too high for comfort. She argues that separatist sentiment grew after another Liberal federal victory and reflects years of frustration with Ottawa.But Smith also says relations with the federal government have begun to change.She points to a new agreement with Ottawa, progress on a proposed West Coast oil pipeline and greater provincial control over project approvals as signs that the federal government is finally responding to Alberta's concerns.LeDrew asks whether the threat of separation itself has strengthened Smith's negotiating hand.The conversation also turns to pipeline routes, British Columbia, Alberta's past experience with Keystone XL and why accessing international markets is critical to reducing Alberta's dependence on the United States.Topics Covered:Alberta separation supportWhy separatist sentiment remains highCitizen-initiated referendumsAlberta's relationship with OttawaWhether separatism strengthens Smith's handThe proposed West Coast pipelineWorking with British ColumbiaAlberta's Keystone XL lossesReducing dependence on the U.S.Accessing Asian energy markets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Friday rant, Stephen LeDrew shares two recent conversations that convinced him Canadians are paying closer attention to politics, government and the direction of the country.The first came when several businessmen challenged LeDrew for being too hard on Prime Minister Mark Carney. LeDrew's response was simple: show me the results.He argues that Carney has made ambitious promises about accelerating major projects and strengthening Canada's economy, but says Canadians should keep asking what has actually been delivered.The second conversation began when LeDrew was dismissed as simply “right-wing” for criticizing government performance.His argument: demanding results, transparency and factual answers should not be treated as left-wing or right-wing. Canadians should be able to debate whether policies work without immediately attaching political labels to one another.LeDrew says independent media has an important role to play in asking those questions — and that Canadians themselves need to keep demanding answers.Topics Covered:Canadians paying closer attentionHolding Carney to his promisesMajor projects and economic developmentTalk versus measurable resultsThe role of the PMO and ParliamentPolitical labels replacing debateRight versus left versus common senseAsking tougher questions of governmentIndependent mediaRebuilding Canada after the Trudeau years Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Public provocateur Robin Bredin joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss a question increasingly confronting Canadians: how do we rebuild social cohesion in a country that feels increasingly divided?Bredin argues that restoring Canadian society begins with individual liberty, independent thinking and a stronger education system. He and LeDrew discuss whether schools have abandoned fundamentals, whether parents have become too distracted to challenge institutions and how cultural and political divisions have weakened a common Canadian identity.The conversation also turns to immigration and integration. LeDrew and Bredin contrast previous generations of newcomers who maintained their cultural roots while embracing a Canadian identity with what they see as a more fragmented society today.Bredin ultimately argues that citizenship cannot be based solely on rights. Canadians must also accept civic responsibilities — protecting institutions, participating in society and maintaining the norms that allow a diverse country to function.Topics covered in this episode:Canada's weakening social cohesionEducation and independent thinkingParents and institutional accountabilityIntegration versus cultural divisionBuilding a shared Canadian identityThe legacy of multiculturalismRights versus responsibilitiesCivic participation and citizenshipPolitical and cultural fragmentationRebuilding common values Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Capobianco of FleishmanHillard joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss one of Ottawa's most persistent problems: a federal bureaucracy that can make even major government priorities extraordinarily difficult to deliver.The conversation begins with the departure of the Prime Minister's handpicked official tasked with military procurement after roughly a year on the job. LeDrew argues that the episode raises a larger question: what happens when even people given a direct mandate from the Prime Minister struggle to move through the federal system?Capobianco says Canada needs a strong professional public service, and stresses that many bureaucrats do valuable work. But he argues that government becomes dysfunctional when departments grow too large, political leadership and the bureaucracy become disconnected, or procurement systems become so complicated that businesses simply walk away.Military procurement is the clearest example. Both argue that repeated attempts at reform have failed to solve a problem that has persisted across governments of different political stripes.The question is no longer whether Ottawa has a bureaucracy problem — but what government is prepared to do about it.Topics Covered:Ottawa's expanding bureaucracyWhy bureaucrats outlast governmentsPolitical leadership versus the public serviceCanada's military procurement problemsWhy government projects get bottleneckedThe consequences of oversized departmentsBusinesses abandoning procurement processesWhere bureaucrats provide real valueWhy previous reforms haven't lastedWhether more dramatic change is required Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservative strategist Michael Diamond joins Stephen LeDrew to tackle a frustrating question for the Conservative Party: if Canadians are unhappy with the economy, housing, transportation and the direction of the country, why isn't the opposition further ahead?LeDrew argues that Mark Carney may understand strategy but has failed to deliver good government. Diamond pushes back, arguing that Conservatives make a mistake if they underestimate Carney's political ability.The two debate Carney's handling of Donald Trump, his political momentum, Parliament, military procurement and whether standing up to the United States has become the defining issue for Canadian voters.This is the first Three Minutes. Become a member to watch the full debate between LeDrew and Michael Diamond.Topics CoveredWhy Carney remains politically strongThe Conservatives' polling problemTrump's impact on Canadian politicsCarney's political skillsParliament and the PMOCanada's economic frustrationMilitary procurement bureaucracyThe challenge facing Conservatives Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew argues that Canada needs more accountability, more public participation and far more scrutiny of the people elected to govern.Pointing to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's push for faster project approvals and citizen-initiated votes, LeDrew asks whether Canadians should have more direct ways to influence government between elections.That could include referendums on major issues — or even recall mechanisms when politicians fail to deliver on important promises.LeDrew also argues that Canadians themselves need to take politics more seriously: looking beyond personality, asking tougher questions about policy and understanding what politicians actually plan to do once elected.He says Canada has suffered from years of poor federal governance, excessive bureaucracy and too little accountability — and argues that both politicians and the media should face much tougher scrutiny.The bigger question: should Canadians have more power to hold governments accountable before the next election arrives?Topics Covered:Political accountability in CanadaRecall electionsCitizen-initiated referendumsDanielle Smith's approach in AlbertaCutting bureaucracy and regulationHolding politicians to their promisesVoter responsibilityPersonality versus public policyTrudeau's impact on the Liberal PartyIndependent media and political scrutiny Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Donald Trump, the Canada-U.S. trade war and why she believes Canada needs to stop thinking only about Washington.Smith argues that the strongest advocates for Canadian trade are often Americans themselves — governors, legislators, businesses and workers who benefit directly from doing business with Canada.She points to Bombardier as an example of how U.S. political pressure can change when American jobs and investment are at stake, and says every premier should be building stronger relationships south of the border.The conversation also turns to energy, critical minerals, defence, interprovincial trade and whether Trump's pressure has forced Canada to take its own economic potential more seriously.Smith says Alberta is now moving ahead with dozens of investment projects, faster provincial approvals and a new working relationship with Ottawa — including hopes for a major West Coast oil pipeline.Topics Covered:Danielle Smith's strategy for dealing with TrumpWhy American allies matter more than Washington aloneGovernors and U.S. business relationshipsBombardier and cross-border jobsEnergy and critical mineralsCanada's east-west trade potentialAlberta investment projectsCutting approval timesProvincial autonomyA possible West Coast oil pipeline Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservative political strategist Michael Diamond joins Stephen LeDrew to debate a basic question about political loyalty: should anyone support a party simply because they always have?Diamond says no. Political parties still have to earn votes by producing policies that respond to the issues Canadians actually care about.The conversation turns to the Conservative Party's challenge under Pierre Poilievre. Mark Carney remains popular for his response to Donald Trump, while affordability, government spending and other domestic issues struggle to break through.Diamond argues that Conservatives cannot simply recycle the issues of the previous election. They need to address today's problems while preparing for a future election that may look very different — especially once Trump is no longer the dominant political issue.LeDrew also presses Diamond on government accountability and whether Parliament should be sitting while major decisions are being made.Topics CoveredParty loyalty versus earning votesWhy parties need fresh policiesThe danger of fighting the last electionCarney's popularity against TrumpConservative priorities on affordabilityGovernment spending and the carbon taxWhy opposition is difficult right nowPreparing for the next electionParliament and accountabilityWhat Conservatives need to do next Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Capobianco of FleishmanHillard joins Stephen LeDrew to look at the latest federal by-elections and ask whether Conservatives should actually be worried about the results.Capobianco argues that by-elections are usually snapshots rather than predictions of the next general election. Two of the recent contests were in longstanding Liberal territory, while the Conservative loss in Quebec may deserve closer attention after the party fell to third place.But the bigger question is what happens next.Mark Carney remains politically strong, particularly because Canadians approve of his response to Donald Trump and the ongoing trade dispute. Capobianco argues that beneath that headline, however, Canadians are still worried about affordability, rent, gas prices and the cost of living.If Trump stops dominating Canadian politics, does the entire political landscape change?Topics CoveredWhat by-elections really tell usThe Conservatives' three recent lossesThe Quebec result that stands outUpcoming federal by-electionsWhether traditionally Conservative seats are vulnerableCarney's current political strengthThe Trump and tariff effectCost-of-living frustrationWhat happens when Trump fades as an issueWhy the next round of by-elections matters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri joins Stephen LeDrew to tackle the question being asked after another difficult night of by-election results: does the Conservative Party need a new leader?Ferreri says replacing Pierre Poilievre would be an easy answer — but probably the wrong one.Her argument is that Donald Trump currently consumes so much of the Canadian political conversation that almost everything else is being pushed aside. Canadians may be unhappy with affordability, immigration, healthcare and the performance of the federal government, but Ferreri believes Carney continues to benefit from presenting himself as the leader standing between Canada and Trump.She argues that changing Conservative leaders would do little to alter that dynamic.The conversation then turns to Mark Carney's leadership, government transparency and Ferreri's contention that Canadians should pay much closer attention to Carney's internationalist political philosophy and the details of Canada's trade negotiations.Want more? Become a member to watch Stephen LeDrew's full 12-minute conversation with Michelle Ferreri.Topics CoveredWhether Poilievre should remain leaderWhat the by-election losses actually meanTrump dominating Canadian politicsWhy domestic issues struggle to break throughCarney's political advantageLeadership versus intelligenceFerreri's criticism of Carney's worldviewTransparency around trade negotiationsParliament and government accountabilityWhat happens when Trump leaves the stage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew argues that Canada is undergoing major changes in its relationships with the United States, China and Europe — but Canadians are getting far too little information about where the country is heading.His central concern is not simply Mark Carney. It is the absence of parliamentary debate and accountability while major decisions are being made.LeDrew questions why Parliament has been sidelined, why Canadians know so little about international negotiations and agreements, and whether too much power has become concentrated in the Prime Minister's Office.He argues that intelligence and experience in banking do not automatically make someone an effective political leader. Drawing a historical contrast between Neville Chamberlain and Winston Churchill, LeDrew says judgment, character, debate and respect for democratic institutions matter just as much.He also takes aim at the media, arguing that politicians are too often allowed to make sweeping claims without serious challenge.His demand is simple: recall Parliament, explain where Canada is going and let Canadians hear the debate.Topics Covered:Canada's changing international relationshipsWhat Canadians know about current agreementsPower concentrated in the PMOWhy Parliament should be recalledCarney's leadership styleIntelligence versus political judgmentCabinet accountabilityParliamentary debate and scrutinyThe role of the mediaWho decides Canada's future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Adam George, researcher with the Middle East Forum, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss the Muslim Brotherhood, its international reach and concerns about its influence in Canada.George explains that the Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational political Islamist movement founded in Egypt in the 1920s and distinguishes it clearly from Muslims generally or Islam as a faith.The conversation focuses on allegations that individuals sympathetic to Muslim Brotherhood ideology have gained influence within Canadian institutions, and why Canada has been too reluctant to investigate or confront extremist political movements operating within the country.LeDrew and George also discuss national security, antisemitism, threats against religious and minority communities, Canada's relationship with the United States, and why George believes Ottawa should examine the issue more seriously.Topics covered in this episode:What the Muslim Brotherhood isPolitical Islam versus the Muslim faithAllegations of influence in CanadaWhy Canada may be seen as vulnerableNational-security institutions and political constraintsAntisemitism and extremist ideologyThreats to other minority communitiesHow other Western countries have respondedCanada-U.S. security concernsWhy George says Canada needs to investigate further Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss why Donald Trump continues to dominate Canadian politics — and what that means for Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party.In this free three-minute preview, Ferreri argues that Trump has become such an overwhelming political distraction that Canadians are struggling to focus on domestic issues like affordability, debt, immigration and the economy.She says Conservatives may have little choice but to wait for the political environment to change while Canadians eventually turn their attention back to what is happening at home.LeDrew and Ferreri also discuss political exhaustion, media saturation and why so many Canadians appear more focused on the U.S. president than on their own government.Become a member to watch the full conversation.Topics covered in this preview:Trump dominating Canadian politicsWhy Conservatives are struggling to break throughCarney's advantage in the trade fightDomestic problems being overshadowedPolitical exhaustionMedia fixation on TrumpPoilievre's challengeWhat happens when the distraction fades Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Liberal MP Dan McTeague joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss what happened to the Liberal Party — and why so many younger Canadians are struggling to build the kind of life previous generations took for granted.McTeague argues that the Liberal Party he once represented was focused on balanced budgets, economic growth, controlled immigration and responsible government. In his view, Justin Trudeau fundamentally changed that institution while many longtime Liberal voters continued supporting it based on what the party once represented.The conversation then turns to generational inequality. LeDrew and McTeague discuss housing, taxes, jobs, wealth and why Canadians under 30 are finding it increasingly difficult to buy homes, save money or get ahead.McTeague argues that Canada may not seriously change course until economic conditions become painful enough to force voters to demand something different.Topics covered in this episode:The old Liberal Party versus today's LiberalsTrudeau's impact on the partyWhy longtime Liberal voters remain loyalGenerational wealth and housingYoung Canadians falling behindTaxes and affordabilityThe political power of baby boomersWhy economic pain can change electionsHelping the next generation get aheadWhether Canada needs a political reset Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew argues that Canada's problems go beyond politics and partisanship. The real issue is whether Canadians are getting good government.Mark Carney remains popular for standing up to Donald Trump, but LeDrew argues Canadians are deeply frustrated with the economy, taxes, affordability, development and the difficulty of getting major projects built.He also questions why Parliament remains sidelined while major decisions are concentrated in the Prime Minister's Office. From military procurement and interprovincial trade barriers to pipelines, mines and excessive bureaucracy, LeDrew says Canada is leaving enormous economic opportunities on the table.Canada has the resources, talent and potential to be one of the richest countries in the world. LeDrew's message to Carney and his Liberal caucus: recall Parliament, explain what is happening and start delivering better government.Topics covered in this episode:Popularity versus government performanceCanada's struggling economyParliament versus the PMOBureaucracy blocking resultsMilitary procurement failuresInterprovincial trade barriersPipelines, mines and major projectsUsing political leadership to force changeCanada's unrealized economic potentialWhy Liberal MPs need to push Carney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan McTeague joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss gasoline prices, diesel costs and why an energy-rich country like Canada continues to struggle with expensive fuel.In this free Three Minute preview, McTeague argues that Canadians are paying the price for years of weak energy policy, insufficient pipeline capacity, taxes and regulations that make it harder to produce and move oil and gas.He also warns that higher diesel prices could feed directly into inflation, transportation costs and grocery prices — making an already expensive economy even harder on Canadian households.The full members-only conversation goes much further into refineries, pipelines, Mark Carney, net zero, Canada-U.S. trade and what McTeague believes government could do immediately to lower costs and restore confidence in the energy sector.Become a member to watch the full interview.Topics covered in this preview:Why gas prices remain highCanada's pipeline shortageFuel taxes and regulationsDiesel and inflationThe cost of weak energy policyCanada's unused resource wealthWhy prices could climb furtherWhat government could change Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former broadcaster and MPP Peter Shurman joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Donald Trump, Mark Carney,Canada's economic problems, and why Canadians may be focusing their anger in the wrong direction.Shurman argues that Trump did not create Canada's economic decline. In his view, many of the country's problems began under Justin Trudeau and will continue unless the Carney government produces a clear plan for growth, trade and economic recovery.LeDrew and Shurman also question why Canadians know so little about recent negotiations with the United States. They argue that Carney needs to explain what happened, recall Parliament and give Canadians a clear account of where the country is heading.Instead of obsessing over a president Canadians cannot control, Shurman says Canada needs to repair its relationship with the United States and then get serious about fixing its own economy.Topics covered in this episode:Why Trump isn't responsible for everythingCanada's economic declineTrudeau's legacy of declineCarney's lack of a clear planSecrecy around U.S. negotiationsWhy Parliament should returnLeadership versus intelligenceCanada-U.S. relationsPublic anger toward TrumpFixing Canada's own problems Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew declares that Mark Carney was right to reject a U.S. trade deal if the terms would have made Canada economically subservient — but argues that the decision is only the beginning.LeDrew points out that Donald Trump has forced Canada to confront weaknesses it has ignored for years: poor productivity, interprovincial trade barriers, stalled pipelines and resource projects, excessive regulation, bureaucracy and a lack of serious economic growth.Now, he says, Carney has to deliver.LeDrew calls on the Prime Minister to release the details of the rejected U.S. proposal, recall Parliament and allow Canadians to debate the facts. He argues that Canada has the resources to become one of the richest countries in the world — but only if government starts making decisions, approving projects and getting Canadians back to work.This is a rant about trade, democracy, economic independence and whether Carney can turn a crisis into an opportunity.Topics covered in this episode:Why rejecting the U.S. deal may have been correctTrump forcing Canada to rethink its economyPipelines and resource developmentInterprovincial trade barriersCanada's productivity problemBureaucracy blocking investmentCarney's major-project promisesReleasing the trade-deal detailsWhy Parliament should be recalledTurning a crisis into economic growth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter Shurman joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss a troubling question: is the business world beginning to give up on Canada?In this free Three Minute preview, Shurman argues that Canadian companies are increasingly moving operations and investment to the United States — and that Donald Trump and tariffs are only part of the story.LeDrew and Shurman discuss the economic legacy of the Trudeau years, uncertainty under Mark Carney, Canada's strained relationship with the United States and why international investors may be thinking twice about putting money into Canada.The conversation goes much further in the full interview, including bureaucracy, resource development, unemployment, food banks, supply management and what Canada needs to change.Become a member to watch the full interview.Topics covered in this preview:Why businesses are leaving CanadaCanada's investment problemTrump versus homegrown economic problemsTrudeau's economic legacyCarney and business confidenceCanada-U.S. trade uncertaintyWhy foreign investors may hesitateThe stakes for Canadian jobs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Friday rant, Stephen LeDrew reacts to the Ontario Court of Appeal overturning a lower-court decision involving Toronto bike lanes — and says the ruling is about much more than cycling.LeDrew argues that the original decision crossed the line between law and politics by treating bike-lane policy as a Charter issue. He says the Court of Appeal delivered an important reminder: elected governments make policy, while judges are there to interpret and apply the law.The ruling, in LeDrew's view, is a major pushback against judicial activism and the growing tendency of courts to substitute their own policy preferences for those of elected legislatures.This is a rant about bike lanes, the Charter, judicial restraint and why the rule of law depends on judges knowing where their role ends.Topics covered in this episode:The Ontario bike-lane appealWhy the original ruling was overturnedJudges versus elected governmentsJudicial activism and policy-makingSection 7 of the CharterLegislative authorityJudicial restraintToronto bike-lane politicsWhy the ruling matters beyond cyclingGetting back to the rule of law Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

André Proulx, producer of The LeDrew Three Minute Interview and an NDP supporter, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Tim Hortons, temporary foreign workers and whether one of Canada's most recognizable brands is doing enough to hire Canadians.Proulx says Tim Hortons pledged earlier this year to rely less on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and hire more Canadians — yet he says job postings connected to the program have increased since that commitment.The conversation turns to wages, training costs and why fast-food jobs can still provide valuable experience for teenagers and young workers. Drawing on his own experience running a small bakery in Hamilton, Proulx argues that employers can pay a living wage, retain good staff and still grow a successful business.LeDrew and Proulx ask whether Tim Hortons is cheating by hiring Foreign Workers — and whether Canadians are paying the price.Topics covered in this episode:Tim Hortons and temporary foreign workersIts promise to hire more CanadiansJobs for teenagers and young workersTraining costs and staff retentionPaying a living wageAndré's experience as a small-business ownerSeasonal work and returning employeesEmployer responsibilityCanadian jobs versus cheaper labourWhether Tim Hortons is racing to the bottom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Nitefor, President of Air Lab, Inc., joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss the future of Ontario's auto industry — and why he believes the current model is no longer sustainable.In this free Three Minute preview, Nitefor argues that decades of government intervention and subsidies have left Canada vulnerable as the North American auto industry changes around it. He warns that Ontario could lose a major part of its manufacturing base if policymakers continue trying to preserve an old model.But Nitefor also sees an opportunity. Canada still has the workers, infrastructure, supply chain and technical expertise needed to build something new — if entrepreneurs and the private sector are given room to lead.The full conversation goes much further into tariffs, corporate welfare, supply management, taxpayer subsidies and what a completely new Canadian automotive model could look like.Become a member to watch the full interview.Topics covered in this preview:The future of Ontario autoWhy subsidies may not save the sectorCanada's manufacturing vulnerabilityTrump, tariffs and the bigger problemA new model for Canadian carmakingEntrepreneurs versus government planningOntario's existing automotive strengthsWhy the industry needs a reset Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan McTeague joins Stephen LeDrew to ask why personality and image seem to matter more than results in Canadian politics.McTeague argues that Canadians stuck with Justin Trudeau through three elections despite a weakening economy and growing dissatisfaction with his government. Now, he says Mark Carney is benefiting from a similar phenomenon: Canadians praise his résumé, seriousness and leadership style — but struggle to point to concrete results.LeDrew and McTeague also discuss mainstream media, polling, the public service, political influencers and whether the institutions that once challenged governments are still doing their job.Why do voters become so invested in political personalities? And what happens when Canadians would rather defend their past choices than admit the country is heading in the wrong direction?A longer members-only conversation with Dan McTeague is coming next week.Topics covered in this episodePersonality versus political resultsTrudeau's enduring voter appeal, failed resultsWhy Carney still gets the benefit of the doubtMedia and institutional accountabilityPollsters and political influenceThe decline of trust in mainstream mediaYounger Canadians and political frustrationWhy voters resist admitting they were wrongCanada's economic declineWho controls the political conversation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexander Brown of Without Diminishment joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Project Ontario, Doug Ford, conservative politics, and whether Ontario's Progressive Conservative Government is living up to conservative principles.In this episode, Brown explains why Project Ontario is bringing together conservative groups, communicators, and organizations to push for better from the Ford government. While he credits Doug Ford for standing up for Canada on tariffs and supporting major projects like pipelines, Brown argues that Ontario conservatives still need to answer serious questions about government spending, education, crime, diploma mills, and cultural issues.LeDrew and Brown also discuss Sir John A. Macdonald, Canadian history, conservative criticism, and why holding your own side accountable can make a government stronger — not weaker.This is a conversation about Ontario politics, conservative values, government spending, and whether Doug Ford's government needs to reconnect with its base.Topics covered in this episode:Project Ontario and conservative organizingDoug Ford's record in governmentOntario government spendingPipelines and national unityEducation reform and diploma millsCrime and public safetySir John A. Macdonald and Canadian historyConservative principles versus party politicsWhy governments need criticismKeeping the conservative base engaged Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Marland, deputy editor at Without Diminishment, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss morality, leadership, community, and whether society has lost the ability to tell right from wrong.In this episode, Marland argues that modern culture has become detached from reality, tradition, history, and objective truth. She says that when people are encouraged to define morality only for themselves, it becomes harder for society to defend shared standards of right and wrong.LeDrew and Marland also discuss political leadership, law and order, the decline of institutions, market-driven thinking, family, community, and why money alone cannot provide meaning or happiness.This is a conversation about moral clarity, responsibility, and rebuilding a society rooted in something deeper than self-interest.Topics covered in this episode:The decline of moral clarityLeadership and moral courageTruth, reality and traditionThe limits of “leave me alone” politicsLaw and order in societyThe role of institutionsMoney, happiness and meaningCommunity over self-optimizationConservative politics and valuesRebuilding shared standards Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jerry Amernic, author of Sleepwoking, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss the controversy surrounding residential schools, the Kamloops announcement and calls to criminalize residential school “denialism.”Amernic argues that Canadians must be allowed to question historical claims and examine the evidence without fear of criminal punishment. He and LeDrew acknowledge that residential schools existed, that children died from illness and that incidents of abuse occurred, while challenging claims about undiscovered mass graves and deliberate killing fields.They also discuss the federal funding provided to investigate possible burial sites, questions about financial accountability and why many educated Canadians remain uncertain about what is fact, allegation or political messaging.This is a provocative conversation about history, evidence, free expression and whether Canadians are still permitted to challenge the country's dominant political narratives.Topics covered in this episode:Calls to criminalize residential school denialismThe evidence surrounding the Kamloops announcementResidential schools and historical contextAbuse, disease and deaths at the schoolsFederal funding for burial-site investigationsFinancial transparency and accountabilityWhy Canadians remain confused about the evidencePolitical messaging versus established factsFree speech and historical debateJerry Amernic's book SleepwokingYou can buy Sleepwoking here - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1775239942 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter Shurman joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss why Canadians increasingly expect government to solve every problem — and why both men believe government should be doing far less.Shurman argues for a more minimalist approach: government should focus on core responsibilities like defence, immigration, transportation, health and education, while leaving businesses and individuals free to build, invest and create.LeDrew and Shurman also discuss how Canada was built by entrepreneurs and small businesses, the expansion of government programs, taxpayer-funded media and proposals for municipally- operated grocery stores.Their message is simple: government should handle the things only government can do — and stay out of everything else.Topics covered in this episode:What government should actually be responsible forThe case for smaller governmentImmigration and national prioritiesHealth, education and provincial responsibilityHow entrepreneurs built CanadaGovernment replacing private initiativeTaxpayer-funded programs and mediaMunicipal governments entering retailWhy bureaucracy keeps expandingLetting business do what government cannot

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew asks how Canada allowed a generation of young people to leave school without mastering basic skills like handwriting, spelling, reading and writing.LeDrew argues that schools, education experts, unions and governments abandoned fundamentals in favour of digital learning — while many parents had no idea what their children were no longer being taught.But his bigger target is Canadians themselves. From education and municipal spending to deteriorating infrastructure, questionable priorities and political leadership, LeDrew says too many Canadians have stopped challenging “experts” and have stopped demanding accountability from their elected officials.His message is simple: Canada's problems will not fix themselves. Canadians need to pay attention, ask harder questions and start demanding better.Topics covered in this episode:The decline of handwriting and basic literacyWhat schools stopped teachingParents being left in the darkHolding education experts accountableCanadians' reluctance to challenge authorityPotholes versus municipal prioritiesWasteful spending and political distractionsTrudeau's post-national vision of CanadaFailing the next generationWhy Canadians need to push back Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Turley-Ewart, contributing columnist with The Globe and Mail, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Nutrien's decision to invest roughly $1 billion in export infrastructure at Longview, Washington, rather than expanding through the Port of Vancouver.Nutrien is a major Canadian potash producer, but Turley-Ewart explains that railway bottlenecks, labour disruptions and concerns about reliability made Washington State the more practical choice for its exports. The company can now move more of its product to international markets while reducing its dependence on a single Canadian port.LeDrew and Turley-Ewart also discuss warnings Nutrien reportedly gave Carney Ministers, the government's lack of urgency, and what this decision says about Canada's ability to attract investment, build infrastructure and move its own resources to market.It is a smart decision for Nutrien — but a troubling story for Canada.Topics covered in this episode:Nutrien's billion-dollar U.S. investmentWhy Longview beat the Port of VancouverRailway and shipping bottlenecksLabour disruptions at Canadian portsOttawa's response to Nutrien's warningThe cost of unreliable infrastructurePotash exports and Canadian tradeLosing investment and jobs to the U.S.The risks of relying on American portsWhat Carney must fix Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brian Lilley, columnist with the Toronto Sun, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Mark Carney's secretive approach to government, including international agreements,the China Agreement, the Gordie Howe deal, and why Canadians are still giving the Prime Minister the benefit of the doubt. In this episode, Lilley argues that all politicians prefer secrecy, but that Carney has taken it further by keeping major agreements and government decisions away from public scrutiny. LeDrew and Lilley also discuss Carney's confidence, arrogance, judgment, and whether his popularity with Canadians is beginning to fade. They also look at Pierre Poilievre's struggles, Conservative infighting, Donald Trump's role in Canadian politics, and why Carney continues to benefit from the “elbows up” effect. This is a sharp conversation about secrecy, transparency, political judgment, and whether Canadians will eventually turn on Mark Carney's government. Topics covered in this episode:Carney's secretive approach to governmentChina agreements and unanswered questionsThe Gordie Howe bridge deal controversyTransparency versus political controlCarney's confidence, arrogance and judgmentWhy Canadians still trust CarneyThe long political honeymoonPoilievre and Conservative infightingTrump as Carney's political shieldWhen voters may turn on the government Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew takes aim at what he calls the latest “Carney Caper” — a Canadian Armed Forces directive that forbids the use of the word “God,” including during services led by military chaplains. LeDrew argues that this is another example of government creep and a broader unwillingness to defend Canada's own history, traditions and institutions. He contrasts the treatment of Christian language with the accommodation of other religious and cultural practices, asking why Canadian leaders seem so afraid that someone might be offended. He also revisits proposed federal workplace language rules, the decline of once-traditional institutions and similar controversies overseas involving national flags and cultural identity. This is a rant about free expression, religion, national confidence and whether Canada has become too frightened to stand up for its own traditions. Topics covered in this episode:The latest “Carney Capers”Government creep in private workplacesReligious language in the Armed ForcesThe role of military chaplainsAccommodation and double standardsCanada's declining national confidenceThe fear of causing offenceProtecting cultural traditionsNational flags and public identityWhat it means to embrace Canada Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri joins Stephen LeDrew for a spirited debate about Pierre Poilievre, Mark Carney and the future of the Conservative Party. In this free Three-Minute preview, LeDrew asks whether Poilievre's blunt political style is dividing Conservatives and making it harder for the party to present itself as a government-in-waiting. Ferreri pushes back, arguing that voters should care more about substance and results than tone. The conversation continues well beyond three minutes, covering Carney's record, Conservative messaging, media bias, government accountability and why Canadians still aren't embracing the Conservatives as the clear alternative. Become a member to watch the full interview. Topics covered in this preview:Whether Poilievre is too divisiveTone versus political substanceTension within the Conservative PartyWhy Carney still appeals to votersThe challenge of winning moderate CanadiansWhy independent political media matters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Franco Terrazzano, head of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, joins Stephen LeDrew to talk about government waste, taxpayer money, and the staggering cost of Canada's growing debt.In this episode, Terrazzano points to examples of public money being spent on projects he says taxpayers should never have been forced to fund — from Global Affairs Canada spending on international events, to municipal spending on a raccoon plaque, to costly political PR stunts.But the biggest issue, Terrazzano argues, is the interest on Canada's debt. He says federal debt interest charges are now costing taxpayers more than $1 billion every week — money that could otherwise go toward hospitals, services, or tax relief.This is a blunt conversation about wasteful spending, government debt, taxpayer accountability, and why Canadians should be demanding better from their politicians.Topics covered in this episode:Government waste in CanadaGlobal Affairs Canada spendingTaxpayer-funded projectsConrad the raccoon plaquePolitical PR spendingCanada's federal debtDebt interest chargesTaxpayer accountabilityFederal sales tax and debt paymentsWhy government spending matters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexander Brown, managing editor of Without Diminishment, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss what Canada looks like after Trump — and whether the country can turn a moment of anti-Trump unity into something more serious.In this episode, LeDrew and Brown talk about Canadian patriotism, east-west trade, pipelines, populism, interprovincial barriers, supply management, and whether Canada can build a stronger economy once Trump is no longer the central political excuse.Brown argues that Trump may have unintentionally united Canadians, but the real question is what comes next. Will Canada use this moment to rebuild, trade more freely within its own borders, and get major projects done — or simply fall back into the same old failing habits?This is a conversation about Canada's future, national unity, economic independence, and whether our country can finally start to move forward.Topics covered in this episode:Trump's impact on Canadian unityAnti-Trump politics and Canadian patriotismA possible conservative resetPipelines and east-west tradeCanada's internal trade barriersPopulism and political messagingSupply management and economic reformCanada's dependence on the U.S.Getting major projects builtBuilding a more self-reliant economy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Catherine Swift, President of the Coalition of Concerned Manufacturers & Businesses of Canada, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Canada's struggling economy, business closures, job losses, taxes, red tape, and Mark Carney's approach to government.In this episode, Swift argues that the solutions are not complicated: shrink government, lower taxes, reduce red tape, and create a more competitive business climate. Instead, she says Ottawa is creating new departments, expanding bureaucracy, and replacing the consumer carbon tax with a hidden industrial carbon tax.LeDrew and Swift also discuss Carney's net-zero agenda, major project delays, government secrecy, conflicts of interest, Brookfield, the Vancouver condo deal, and whether Canada's economic policy is becoming too cozy with well-connected insiders.This is a blunt conversation about Canada's economy, business confidence, government waste, and whether Ottawa is helping the private sector — or suffocating it.Topics covered in this episode:Canada's worsening business climateFactory closures and job lossesShrinking government versus growing bureaucracyTaxes, red tape and competitivenessThe hidden industrial carbon taxCarney's net-zero agendaMajor projects and government delaysGovernment secrecy and accountabilityConflicts of interest and Brookfield questionsCrony capitalism and insider politics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this LeDrew rant, Stephen LeDrew argues that Ottawa is ignoring the problems Canadians care about most — crime, lawlessness, economic decline, antisemitism and the weakening of social cohesion.Instead, LeDrew says the federal government is expanding into areas where it does not belong. He takes aim at proposed French-language workplace requirements, plans to give the CBC a larger role in determining truth, the government's position on transgender athletes and calls for additional federal support for the Toronto Star.LeDrew calls it “government creep”: politicians and bureaucrats inserting themselves into more areas of Canadian life while failing to address public safety, affordability and economic growth.With a recent rant reaching more than 150,000 viewers, LeDrew says Canadians are beginning to demand better decisions from government — and from the media meant to hold it accountable.Topics covered in this episode:Crime, lawlessness and public safetyCanada's economic and social declineRising antisemitismGovernment creep and overreachFrench-language workplace rulesThe CBC and government-approved truthTransgender athletes in women's sportsFederal funding for Canadian mediaGovernment priorities and accountabilityWhy Canadians must demand better Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michelle Ferreri joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss the Gordie Howe International Bridge agreement, Mark Carney's credibility and Canada's struggling relationship with the United States.Ferreri argues that the newly released bridge agreement contradicts what Carney previously told Canadians about recovering construction costs and paying down the project's debt. She says the controversy raises serious questions about political honesty, media accountability and why Canadians appear willing to overlook broken promises.LeDrew and Ferreri also discuss stalled trade negotiations with Washington, Mexico's ability to keep working with Donald Trump and the risks facing Canadian manufacturing. They argue that Canadian politicians must stop using Trump as an excuse and focus on protecting Canadian jobs, trade and economic interests.Topics covered in this episode:The Gordie Howe Bridge agreementCarney's claims versus the released documentPolitical honesty and accountabilityCanada's stalled U.S. trade talksMexico's approach to TrumpManufacturing jobs leaving CanadaMedia coverage of government claimsCanada's relationship with ChinaUsing Trump as a political distractionProtecting Canadian jobs and trade Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arnie Guha joins Stephen LeDrew for a follow-up conversation about artificial intelligence — and why so many people are afraid of it.In this episode, Guha explains that AI can take over many routine tasks, from writing emails to summarizing documents, but that does not mean humans should disappear from the process. He argues that the key idea is “human in the loop”: AI can assist, but people still need to apply judgment, strategy, and common sense.LeDrew and Guha also discuss legal mistakes involving AI, the danger of relying on tools without checking their work, and the concept of AI alignment — whether artificial intelligence is actually doing what it was designed to do.This is a practical conversation about AI, fear, work, mistakes, and why educated human judgment still matters.Topics covered in this episode:Why people are afraid of AIAI and job replacementHuman in the loopAI mistakes and fake legal casesWhy human judgment still mattersAI as a tool, not a replacementAI alignmentAlgorithmic trading and riskThe limits of artificial intelligenceHow people should use AI responsibly Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexander Brown, managing editor of Without Diminishment, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss why socialist ideas are gaining traction again in North America.In this episode, LeDrew and Brown look at why young voters are being drawn to politicians who promise more government control, more benefits, and more “free” programs. Brown argues that the appeal of socialism is being driven by scarcity — especially housing costs, wage pressure, and a growing sense that upward mobility is slipping away.They also discuss education, social media, political propaganda, and why many young people may not understand the historical failures of socialism. Brown argues that bad ideas gain ground when people are desperate, poorly taught, and constantly fed simplistic answers to complex problems.This is a sharp conversation about economics, culture, education, and why North America needs to remember the real cost of socialism.Topics covered in this episode:Why socialist ideas are becoming attractive again to younger votersHow housing costs and wage pressure are creating political frustrationWhy promises of “free” programs can appeal to people who feel stuckThe difference between fixing capitalism's problems and embracing socialismHow weak history and civics education leave people vulnerable to bad ideasThe role social media plays in spreading political propagandaWhy historical figures like Marx and Mao are being sanitized onlineHow scarcity, resentment, and desperation can reshape politicsWhy conservatives also need to guard young people against extreme ideasThe importance of making a stronger case for freedom, prosperity, and upward mobility Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Franco Terrazzano, head of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss what LeDrew calls “government creep” — the steady expansion of government into more and more areas of Canadian life.In this episode, LeDrew and Terrazzano argue that governments are trying to fix problems created by bureaucracy with even more bureaucracy. From major projects and pipelines to housing, regulations, carbon taxes, federal debt, and government spending, they say Canada is making it harder for the private sector to build, invest, and grow.They also discuss Mark Carney's government, the growth of the public sector, Canada's rising debt, and why taxpayers are being forced to pay for an ever- expanding bureaucracy.This is a blunt conversation about big government, taxpayer money, debt, and why Canada needs less red tape — not more.Topics covered in this episode:Government creepMark Carney and big governmentFederal bureaucracyMajor projects and pipelinesNatural resource developmentCarbon taxes and regulationGovernment debt and deficitsPublic sector growthTaxpayers and federal spendingWhy Canada struggles to build Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brian Lilley, columnist with the Toronto Sun, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Mark Carney, the Vancouver condo bailout controversy, government secrecy, trade talks with the United States, and whether the Prime Minister is running the government he promised Canadians.In this episode, LeDrew presses Lilley on the question of corruption, especially around the Vancouver bailout. Lilley pushes back, arguing that he does not like using the word “corruption” without clear evidence — but says the Carney government has not been transparent enough with Canadians.They also discuss Carney's political instincts, the appointment of Tom Pitfield to the Senate, the Chicoutimi by-election, trade negotiations with Donald Trump, and whether Canadian politicians are using Trump as a political excuse for problems that existed long before the latest tariff fights.This is a sharp conversation about politics, accountability, secrecy, and whether Carney is better at playing the political game than delivering results for Canadians.Topics covered in this episode:The Vancouver bailout controversyWhy Brian Lilley pushes back on “corruption”Carney's lack of transparencyTrade talks with the United StatesTrump as political coverCarney's PMO and political strategyThe Tom Pitfield Senate appointmentThe Chicoutimi by-election calculationCanada's weak business climatePolitics versus governing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Mark Carney lied to Canadians about the Gordie Howe International Bridge agreement - and why did he walk away when a reporter asked him directly about that?In today's rant, Stephen LeDrew examines Carney's refusal to answer difficult questions, previous lies surrounding his financial assets, Canada's struggling economy, manufacturing job losses and whether a career bureaucrat has the political instincts and character required to lead the country.LeDrew argues that speeches and polished language are not enough. Leaders should have CHARACTER. Canadians need accountability, economic action and a Prime Minister willing to answer questions when the pressure is on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Marland, deputy editor at Without Diminishment, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss motherhood, family, feminism, popular culture, and whether modern society has discouraged young women from seeing motherhood as a source of fulfillment.In this episode, Marland argues that popular culture has too often portrayed motherhood as a burden or obstacle, rather than a meaningful part of life. She and LeDrew discuss career ambition, the pursuit of happiness, the role of family, and why so many young people feel disconnected or without purpose.They also discuss whether society needs to restore the family as a central institution — and what that means for marriage, divorce, children, and personal responsibility.This is a conversation about motherhood, meaning, culture, and the future of the family.Topics covered in this episode:Motherhood and modern cultureFeminism and fulfillmentCareer ambition and family lifePopular culture's view of motherhoodYoung people and lack of purposeFamily as a core social valueMarriage, divorce and childrenSelf-fulfillment versus responsibilityRebuilding community through familyThe future of family life Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arnie Guha joins Stephen LeDrew to answer a question many people are asking: what is AI, really?In this episode, Guha explains artificial intelligence in plain language — from algorithms on Netflix and Amazon to modern tools like ChatGPT and large language models. He argues that the key difference is decision-making: machines are no longer just following instructions, they are learning patterns, making recommendations, and helping humans make better choices.LeDrew and Guha also discuss why AI matters, how it can reduce drudgery, and where it may have real value in fields like finance and healthcare.This is a clear, practical conversation about artificial intelligence, automation, human work, and why the AI debate is more than just hype.Topics covered in this episode:What is AI?Artificial intelligence explainedChatGPT and large language modelsAlgorithms on Netflix and AmazonMachine learning and decision-makingAI and human productivityUsing AI to reduce drudgeryAI in financeAI in healthcareThe future of work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexander Brown, managing editor of Without Diminishment, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Western civilization, cultural confidence, the “new right,” and the growing pushback against the decolonization movement.In this episode, LeDrew and Brown talk about why so many people are afraid to defend Western civilization, why common sense is often labelled “right-wing,” and how new networks of thinkers and organizers are trying to rebuild confidence in the West.Brown also discusses a recent conference in London that he describes as a kind of “counter-Davos” — a gathering focused not on taking from society, but on giving back, strengthening culture, and defending the good, the true, and the beautiful.This is a conversation about civilization, culture, history, politics, and why the West needs to stop apologizing for itself.Topics covered in this episode:Western civilizationThe new rightCommon sense conservatismCounter-Davos movementDecolonization and post-colonial politicsCanadian identity and cultureJustin Trudeau and national guiltClassical liberalism and conservatismDefending the WestThe future of civilization Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Franco Terrazzano, head of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss financial transparency, taxpayer accountability, and a court fight involving Frog Lake First Nation in Alberta.In this episode, LeDrew and Terrazzano discuss the case of Hans McCarthy, a band member seeking access to records showing where Band money disappeared. Terrazzano argues that Indigenous Canadians should have the same ability to know how their governments spend their cash, just as any other Canadian.They also discuss the First Nations Financial Transparency Act, how the Trudeau government erased accountability, the Carney government's position, and why accountability matters whenever public money is involved.This is a conversation about transparency, taxpayers, government records, and why every Canadian community deserves to know how money is being spent.Topics covered in this episode:Franco TerrazzanoCanadian Taxpayers FederationFrog Lake First Nation financesHans McCarthy court caseFirst Nations financial transparencyTaxpayer accountabilityGovernment records and auditsTrudeau government accountability changesCarney government and transparencyPublic money and financial oversight Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's rant, Stephen LeDrew takes aim at Justin Trudeau's legacy, Mark Carney's government, Liberal Party policies, and the growing evidence that Canada is falling behind.LeDrew argues that Trudeau's poor judgment, failed policies, and lack of accountability left Canada with serious economic and social problems. While Carney may be trying to move away from parts of that legacy, LeDrew says the current government is still filled with Trudeau-era ministers and policies that continue to hold Canada back.He also raises concerns about the Vancouver condo bailout, government favours, media silence, corruption questions, overregulation, and Canada's declining competitiveness. Comparing Canada to South Korea, LeDrew asks why a country devastated by war 75 years ago has surged ahead in technology and prosperity while Canada has become weighed down by bureaucracy and big government.This is a rant about political judgment, economic decline, government overreach, and why Canadians should start demanding better of their politicians.Topics covered in this episode:Trudeau's legacy in Canadian politicsCarney's struggle with Trudeau-era policiesLiberal ministers and accountabilityThe Vancouver condo bailout controversyQuestions around government favours and corruptionCanada's weakening economySouth Korea's rise compared to Canada's declineBig government and overregulationWhy Canadian industry needs to take more chancesThe need for Canadians to demand more from politicians Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Catherine Swift joins Stephen LeDrew to discuss Canada's struggle to compete in the global race for artificial intelligence, data centres, energy, and major investment.As AI data centres are being built around the world, Swift argues that Canada is falling behind because of bureaucracy, environmental delays, political dithering, and an anti-business mindset. She says Canada has the resources — including electricity, water, land, and strong potential locations like Alberta — but too often refuses to allow major projects to move forward. Swift and LeDrew also discuss Canada's plan to spend billions on AI, whether the country can realistically build its own AI industry, and why Canada should be working more closely with the United States instead of trying to compete alone.Topics covered in this episode:Artificial intelligence in CanadaAI data centres and electricity demandWhy Canada struggles to build major projectsManitoba and Hamilton rejecting AI data centresAlberta's potential role in AI developmentCanada's relationship with the U.S.China, the U.S., and the global AI raceGovernment bureaucracy and business investmentCanada's economic competitivenessWhy Canada is falling behind Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.