Podcast appearances and mentions of martin firestone

Martin Firestone is the President of Travel Secure Inc, and an insurance broker in travel medical coverage. He spoke to Andrew Carter about what people should do before cancelling that trip to the U.S.

Rory O'Neil, Trudie Mason, Marc Doret, John Moore, Tom Mulcair, Dr. Mitch Shulman, Martin Firestone, Pattie Lovett-Reid

The sinking value of the Canadian dollar is causing some of you to rethink travel plans... including snowbirds. Our guest, travel expert Martin Firestone hears your stories. 

Martin Firestone, insurance broker in travel medical coverage and president of Travel Secure Inc.

With just a few days until the answer to the question of who will be the next President of the United States, Ann Rohmer speaks with MSNBC's Ali Velshi on his perspective.Ann Rohmer is joined by Adam Gordon, President of Gordon's Downsizing and Estate Services to discuss a new real estate trend with move managers taking the stress out of downsizing for seniors and their families.According to a new survey, salary is the main reason employees are seeking a new role. Tina Cortez is with Trina Casey-Myatt, workplace expert and regional director at Robert Half Company with details.If you are starting to plan your escape to the sunny south, Shaliza Bacchus is with Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure to help you enjoy the sunshine while staying safe.Anyone who lives in York Region knows that if you have a dog, if you walk around, you see coyotes. You see foxes. It's a way of life as we are infringing on their natural habitat. So what do you do? Jim Lang speaks with Lindsay Clarke from Animal Services in the Town of Aurora. Every year at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, we honor the brave Canadians who served and continue to serve our country, a sign of respect is by wearing a poppy. Nujma Bond, Communications Manager with the Royal Canadian Legion is with Glynn Perkins to talk about why is it important for us to wear the poppy and what it represents. 

TUNE INTO THE TOWN:  TORONTO MAYOR OLIVIA CHOW ABSENT FROM TORONTO OCTOBER 7TH VIGIL  Libby Znaimer is joined by Karen Stintz, a Conservative Party of Canada Candidate for Eglinton-Lawrence, a former Toronto City Councillor and the CEO of Variety Village, and Toronto City Councillors James Pasternak for Ward 6 York Centre and Brad Bradford for Ward 19 Beaches-East York. This week: Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is facing backlash for her absence at the October 7th Commemoration in the city. And, we get the latest update on where city council is at with regards to Billy Bishop Airport. HURRICANE MILTON: WHAT CANADIAN SNOWBIRDS NEED TO KNOW   Libby Znaimer is joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure, and Stephen Fine, President & Managing Editor of SnowbirdAdvisor.ca Hurricane Milton has left a trail of destruction damaging homes, flooding roads and knocking out power for millions. However, it “was not the worst-case scenario” that many had been bracing for. Still, where does that leave tens of thousands of Canadian snowbirds who make Florida their part-time home? RECIPE IDEAS FOR CANADIAN THANKSGIVING WEEKEND Libby Znaimer is now joined by nutritionist and author Rose Reisman to discuss the creative recipe ideas for Thanksgiving weekend and how best to prepare your Turkey (if that's what you'll be eating).

TUNE INTO THE TOWN:  IS LIBERTY VILLAGE FINALLY GETTING CONGESTION RELIEF? Libby Znaimer is joined by Alex Blumenstein, Co-Founder of The Peak, Karen Stintz, a Conservative Party of Canada Candidate for Eglinton-Lawrence, a former Toronto City Councillor and the CEO of Variety Village, and Toronto City Councillor Paula Fletcher of Ward 14 Toronto-Danforth. Our panel weighs in on the latest strategy by the TTC to crack down on fare evasion, whether Liberty Village is finally getting congestion relief and other headlines making news this week in the city.  TIPPING CULTURE: ARE WE TAKING IT TOO FAR?  Libby Znaimer is now joined by Ellen Roseman, Consumer Advocate and journalist, and Tony Elenis, President and CEO of The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA). Tipping...it's everywhere. And, we're being asked to partake in the practice even if we don't dine in and get service. You can face a request for a tip when purchasing a loaf of bread, and there are even places that don't sell food that will ask you to tip. Have we gone too far? WHAT AIR TRAVELLERS MIGHT CONSIDER AHEAD OF A POTENTIAL AIR CANADA PILOTS STRIKE Libby Znaimer is now joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Air travellers have a lot to consider as Air Canada faces a potential pilots strike later this month. Marty weighs in on what you might consider especially if you are concerned about flight cancellations and other kinds of disruptions. 

Kelly talks to Hank Idsinga, Martin Firestone & Jim Stanford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RECOVERING POLITICIANS PANEL: PM TRUDEAU AND U.S. PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN FACING PRESSURE REGARDING THEIR LEADERSHIP Libby Znaimer is joined by George Smitherman, former Liberal MPP for Toronto Centre, Health Minister, and Deputy Premier, Janet Ecker, former Ontario PC MPP and Finance Minister and Cheri DiNovo, a former NDP MPP. Both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden have been facing pressure to step down for very different reasons: The Liberals had a major upset with a byelection loss to the Conservatives in Toronto-St. Paul's, and President Biden is facing criticism after a disastrous debate against former President Donald Trump. So, what happens next? ATTACKS ON TWO TORONTO SYNAGOGUES OVER THE WEEKEND Libby Znaimer is first joined by Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, followed by Steven Bloom, Chair of Pride of Israel Synagogue, and Michael Gilmore, Executive Director of Kehillat Shaarei Torah Synagogue. Our guests react to the latest wave of antisemitism in Toronto involving two synagogues that were vandalized over the long weekend. CONTINUED WESTJET FALLOUT AFTER MECHANIC STRIKE ENDS Libby Znaimer is now joined by Martin Firestone, President, Travel Secure Inc., and Dr. Gabor Lukacs, President and Founder of Air Passenger Rights. Did you have a good Canada day weekend? Not if your plans included WestJet! A whopping 1078 flights were cancelled since Thursday because of that unexpected strike, and the fallout continues today with at least 27 cancelled flights and counting. The chances of getting compensation are looking slim...

TUNE INTO THE TOWN: THE COST OF MAINTAINING TORONTO Jane Brown is joined by Alex Blumenstein, Co-Founder of The Peak, Karen Stintz, CEO of Variety Village and Councillor James Pasternak, Ward 6 York Centre. The cost of keeping the City of Toronto in a state of good repair just keeps on increasing.  We learned this week from a city staff report that Toronto needs 26-billion dollars over ten years just to keep much of its infrastructure in the current condition. HOW ARE CANADIANS FEELING ABOUT TRAVEL THESE DAYS?  Jane Brown is now joined by Natalie Preddie, Travel Expert and Travel Freelance Writer, and Martin Firestone, President, Travel Secure Inc. followed by Barry Choi, a personal finance and travel expert. Our guests detail their experiences of travelling lately and to our surprise, they've mostly had a positive experience! And what you need to know about loyalty reward programs that airlines offer. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

TUNE INTO THE TOWN:  THE MISSISSAUGA MAYORAL RACE IS ON! Marissa Lennox is filling in for Libby Znaimer today. She is joined by Alex Blumenstein, Co-Founder of The Peak, Karen Stintz, CEO of Variety Village, and Toronto Councillor James Pasternak,  Ward 6 York Centre. This week: the Mississauga mayoral race kicked off with candidates signing up for the top job including Peter McCallion, the son of the late Hazel McCallion. And, Florida is banning homeless people from sleeping on public property. Should Toronto follow suit? BILLING PRACTICES IN PRIVATE CLINICS & A CASE OF SEVERE STREP THROAT Marissa Lennox and guests discuss what Ontario patients need to know when they are going through the private healthcare clinics to undergo procedures like Cataract surgeries. She is joined by Dr. John Mastronardi who is an optometrist that practices in Windsor, Ontario where cataract surgeries are done mostly in private facilities, and Dr. Iris Gorfinkel, Founder of PrimeHealth Clinical Research. MARCH BREAK IS COMING UP: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW IF YOU ARE TRAVELING Hoping for smooth March Break travel? Well, buckle up! But don't worry—Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc., and John Gradek, a former Air Canada executive, are joining us to navigate through the travel chaos.

TUNE INTO THE TOWN: WILL TORONTO TAX COMMERCIAL PARKING? Libby Znaimer is joined by Alex Blumenstein, Co-Founder of The Peak, Karen Stintz, CEO of Variety Village, and David Crombie, Former Mayor of Toronto. It's Thursday - time to talk local politics and, of course, money! Libby and the panel discuss the climbing price tag for Toronto when it comes to hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 games and Toronto mulls the idea of taxing commercial parking across the City as a source of revenue. Will it actually become a reality? THE CHAOTIC EXPERIENCE OF AIR TRAVELERS RETURNING TO PEARSON AND THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS ON THE ARRIVECAN SAGA Libby Znaimer is now joined by Sean Davidson, a spokesperson for the Greater Toronto Airports Authority followed by Jason Lietaer, Conservative Strategist and President at Enterprise, and Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Today: Libby shares the chaotic experience she had at the airport on her return flight home from vacation. Meanwhile, our guests weigh in on the latest developments surrounding the ArriveCan app.

THE ZOOMER SQUAD Concerns are rising over the number of Canadian seniors going lost or missing due to dementia; unprecedented growth among Canada's senior population will mean shift in housing needs; and what to expect from Canada's labour market as the workforce ages. Liz West is joined by Anthony Quinn, Chief Community Officer of CARP; Bill VanGorder, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Policy Officer of CARP; and Peter Muggeridge, Senior Editor of Zoomer Magazine to discuss the news that matter most to Zoomers. TRAVELLING FOR THE HOLIDAYS We are down to the wire, as many are gearing up for holiday travel during Christmas. Liz West is joined by Martin Firestone, president of Travel Secure Inc. for a conversation about what you need to know ahead of time. POPE  FRANCIS SAYS PRIESTS CAN BLESS SAME-SEX UNIONS There was very big news from the Vatican today. A new document gives formal permission for priests to bless same-sex couples, explaining the radical change in Vatican policy by insisting that people seeking God's love and mercy shouldn't be subject to “an exhaustive moral analysis” to receive it. Liz West is joined by Reverend Cheri Di Novo, former Ontario NDP MPP and a recipient of the Order of Canada, and a regular panelist on Fight Back's Recovering Politicians panel, to discuss this move Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

RECOVERING POLITICIANS PANEL: WHY THE TRUDEAU LIBERALS ARE TRAILING BEHIND POILIEVRE'S CONSERVATIVES Marissa Lennox is joined by Lisa Raitt, Former Deputy Leader of Conservative Party of Canada, Charles Bird, Managing Principle of Earnscliffe Strategies in Toronto, and Cheri DiNovo, Former Ontario NDP MPP and a recipient of the Order of Canada. Today: A Nanos poll shows that the Trudeau Liberals are trailing behind Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives and that the Conservative brand is "stronger now… than at any time" in the past ten years. Are we surprised? Meanwhile, The Ontario Liberal leader will be voted in next weekend with the results made official on December 2nd. Bonnie Crombie is the front-runner but two of her rivals, Yasir Naqvi and Nate Erskine Smith who are both currently MPs, have a strategy to try to beat her. STUDENTS AT MCGILL SUPPORT PRO-PALESTINE POLICY Marissa Lennox is now joined by Michael Mostyn, CEO of B'nai Brith Canada followed by Toronto-based criminal defense lawyer, Ari Goldkind. In the news: McGill's student union is supporting a pro-Palestine policy which both the university and Jewish community finds discriminatory. The university is threatening to sever ties with the union over it. And, the Durham College student who praised Hamas in a broadcasted statement is just one of many examples on social media whereby people are supporting Hamas here at home. So, how is social media fueling the problem. TRAVELLING DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON + NEW AUTO INSURANCE POLICY Marissa Lennox is now joined by Martin Firestone, President, Travel Secure Inc. and Elliot Silverstein, Director, Government Relations, CAA Insurance. The busy travel season is upon us. Marty gives us travel insurance and booking tips as some of us get ready to celebrate American Thanksgiving across the border or gear up for holiday travel during Christmas. And, what you need to know about a new auto insurance policy coming out in 2024 that will potentially allow you to reduce your rates by opting out of certain options.

RECOVERING POLITICIANS PANEL: PREMIER DOUG FORD AND MAYOR OLIVIA CHOW'S MEETING 12:00-12:30  Libby Znaimer is joined by Lisa Raitt, former deputy leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, George Smitherman, former Ontario Liberal MPP for Toronto Centre who also served as a health minister and deputy Premier and Andrew Cash, Former NDP MP, Toronto-Davenport district. This week, the heads of big grocery retailers like Loblaw, Sobeys, Metro, Walmart and Costco met with Ottawa to discuss stabilizing food prices ahead of Canadian Thanksgiving weekend as Canadians continue to grapple with high inflation. According to industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne, they have agreed to work with the government on this. But what will that actually look like? Meanwhile, both Premier Doug Ford and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow looked to be chummy after their meeting yesterday afternoon to discuss getting support from the province to help fill the City's billion dollar shortfall stemming from the pandemic. They announced a new-deal working group to address the issue. Finally, we discuss the bombshell news we learned this week when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in the House of Commons that he recieved "credible evidence" from our intelligence services that India was behind the killing of a Sikh leader in British Columbia on June 18th. Our panel reacts to the latest. PM TRUDEAU: REASON TO BELIEVE INDIA BEHIND KILLING OF BC SIKH LEADER 12:30-12:45  Libby Znaimer is now joined by Gurratan Singh, Vice President at Crestview Strategy and Former NDP MPP for Brampton. As mentioned in the previous segment, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the news to the House of Commons this week that he has credible information from our intelligence community that India was behind the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia on June 18th. The Prime Minister says that he brought his concerns about this directly to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit. Canada has since expelled an Indian diplomat and in a tit for tat response, India did the same with a Canadian diplomat in India. Gurratan details the latest and why he takes issue with the Indian government. AIR PASSENGER COMPLAINTS' BACKLOG REACHES  THE 57,000 MARK--A NEW PEAK 12:45-1 pm Libby Znaimer is now joined by Martin Firestone, a travel expert and President of Travel Secure Inc. Canada's transport regulator reached a backlog of air passenger complaints amounting to 57,000--a new peak. How did it get to this point? Marty weighs in. 

ZOOMER SQUAD: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SENIORS AND AI Jane Brown is filling in for Libby Znaimer today. She is joined by Anthony Quinn, Chief Community Officer CARP, Bill VanGorder,  Chief Operating Officer and Chief Policy Officer of CARP and John Wright,  Executive Vice President, Maru Public Opinion. In the news: We kick things off with a discussion about the relationship between Seniors and AI technology. According to scientists from Baycrest, adults ages 60 and older were less able to distinguish AI speech compared to adults 30 and younger. Meanwhile, Health Canada has approved the first RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) for adults 60 and older. TRAVELING THIS SEASON + MARTY'S TRAVEL STORY FROM IRELAND Jane Brown is now joined by Martin Firestone, President, Travel Secure Inc. and Doug Wallace Editor & Publisher of Travel Right.Today. Martin Firestone details the travel chaos/disruption he faced with Air Canada ahead of his trip to Ireland this Summer. And, we talk about the steps you might consider taking during a climate of airline delays and outright cancellations. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Martin Firestone, president of Travel Secure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RECOVERING POLITICIANS PANEL: BONNIE CROMBIE MULLS RUN FOR ONTARIO LIBERAL LEADERSHIP Libby Znaimer is joined by Lisa Raitt, Former Deputy Leader of Conservative Party of Canada, Peggy Nash, the former New Democratic Party Member of Parliament for Parkdale—High Park, George Smitherman, former Ontario Liberal MPP for Toronto Centre who also served as a health minister and deputy Premier. Today: We begin with the news that Bonnie Crombie, the mayor of Mississauga, is exploring a run for the leadership of the Ontario Liberals. And, of course there's the news about Peel Region--Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga will be splitting up by 2025. We then pivot to Ottawa where former Governor General David Johnston, Special rapporteur, concluded that there is no need for a public inquiry into alleged foreign interference in our political system by China. TRANSPORT MINISTER ANNOUNCES MORE EFFICIENT AIRPORT SECURITY SCREENINGS Libby Znaimer is joined by Martin Firestone, travel expert and President of Travel Secure Inc. Today, transport minister Omar Alghabra announced plans by Ottawa to implement faster and more efficient airport security screening. Libby and Marty weigh in on just how much of an impact this will have. BRAMPTON MAYOR PATRICK BROWN ON THE FUTURE OF PEEL REGION Libby Znaimer is now joined by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown. Mayor Brown weighs in on the future of Peel Region which is set to dissolve by 2025. Brown is concerned about the associated costs of such a breakup. Meanwhile, he and Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie want to keep Peel Police Service in existence but they disagree about how it should be funded. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Libby Znaimer is joined by George Smitherman, former Ontario Liberal MPP for Toronto Centre who also served as a health minister and deputy Premier, Janet Ecker, former Ontario PC MPP who was a senior cabinet minister in the governments of Mike Harris and Ernie Eves and Glenn De Baeremaeker, a former Toronto City Councillor  who represented Scarborough Centre.  Libby and the panel discuss the latest on PSAC's strike and Ottawa's open letter to Canadians indicating its four key positions in the ongoing negotiations with the union. Meanwhile, closer to home, we talk about the future of Ontario Place and the Ontario Science Centre. ----- OTTAWA MAKES CHANGES TO AIR PASSENGER RIGHTS  Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Gabor Lukacs, President and Founder of Air Passenger Rights, Dr. Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. and John Gradek, a former executive with Air Canada and faculty lecturer at the Aviation Management Program at McGill University.     This week: Federal transportation minister Omar Alghabra laid out Ottawa's to make changes to the Air Passenger Rights Charter. Listen to hear what those changes are exactly and whether they go far enough on behalf of the consumer. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Libby Znaimer is joined by Peter Muggeridge, Senior Editor of Zoomer Magazine, David Cravit, Chief Membership Officer of CARP, and Bill VanGorder, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Policy Officer of CARP. It's Monday, time for our Zoomer Squad. The older demographic was front and centre at the Oscars last night. 90-year-old John Williams became the oldest Oscar winner ever and in a town notorious for ageism specifically targeting women - both the winner for best supporting actress - Jamie Lee Curtis - and best Actress - Michelle Yeoh - are over 60 with Yeoh exhorting us from the stage - never to let anyone tell you you are past your prime. Does this reflect a change in society as a whole? Is it leading a change? Is it just lip service? And a date for the federal budget has been announced. It will come down in less than 2 weeks. What does CARP want? ---- FLAIR AIRLINES DISPUTE AND FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS Libby Znaimer is joined by John Gradek, a faculty lecturer at McGill University in Montreal and a former executive with Air Canada and Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Dozens if not hundreds  of passengers were stranded right at the start of March break when four of discount airline Flair's planes were seized by its leasing company last weekend. Communication was lacking and even if there are offers of refunds or rebooking s at a later date that doesn't help people who have bookings and plans right now. If they can rebook with other airlines it'll be a lot more expensive, they will lose hotel deposits, activity fees not to mention th time they probably booked off work. This type of disruption seems to be a growing feature of the travel scene. ---- DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Patricia Lakin-Thomas, Associate Professor in the department of biology at York University.  Are you tired today? Don't blame it on staying up late to watch the Oscars. For scientists have been telling us this ios just one of the harmful effects of the spring forward switch to DST. Some Authorities are willing to switch - but only after bordering US states do the same. And switch to what? US Senator Marco Rubio said the practice is dumb and he has a bill to go to permanent DST. Meanwhile the scientists say it is Standard time that we should be embracing. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Jane Brown is filling in for Libby Znaimer today. She is joined by Dr. Tim Sly, an epidemiologist and professor at the school of Occupational and Public Health at Ryerson University and Dr. Alon Vaisman, an epidemiologist at the University Health Network. As we get ready to begin the new year and open a new chapter, one thing remains certain: COVID-19 remains with us and we continue to face the threat of RSV and the flu. Our health experts weigh in on the changing nature of COVID-19, and how we can continue to do our part in helping to prevent the spread of the above mentioned viruses. ---- THIS YEAR'S HOLIDAY TRAVEL SEASON AND LUGGAGE WOES AT PEARSON Jane Brown is now joined by Dr. Karl Moore, airline industry analyst and professor at McGill University and Martin Firestone, a travel expert and President of Travel Secure Inc. Toronto's Pearson International Airport is making headlines again. Many travelers are complaining that it has taken days for them to get their baggage to wherever they flew out for vacation and that the communication on the whereabouts of their luggage was poor. So, how did this happen? And, was this year's holiday travel experience at Canada's international airports any smoother compared to last year as Federal transportation minister Omar Alghabra promised it would be? ---- THE LATEST ON THE WINTER STORM IN BUFFALO Jane Brown is now joined by Dr. Natalie Simpson, Chair and Professor Operations Management and Strategy School of Management at the University at Buffalo and an expert on emergency preparedness. The winter storm in Buffalo was a deadly one leaving more than 30 dead in the aftermath so far. So, what happens next? And, what lessons will the City and country learn from this kind of natural disaster moving forward? Our expert weighs in. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Libby Znaimer is joined by John Gradek, a faculty lecturer at McGill University in Montreal and a former executive with Air Canada, Dr. Gabor Lukacs, President and Founder of Air Passenger Rights, and Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Canada's transportation minister Omar Alghabra will be holding a summit to address the upcoming holiday travel season. The minister says he is working to improve the situation of delays at the airports and improve efficiency with the airlines and says that his ministry is working to ensure more staff for the airports and airlines. But with the holiday season just a month away, does he have the time and resources to get this done successfully? The summit will include stakeholders from the airlines and airports. And, the minister had this to say about why it is happening: “We cannot go back to what we saw last summer." And, Marty is on site at Pearson International Airport awaiting to board a flight. He gives us first-hand observations of what is going on there. CANADA SOCCER AT THE WORLD CUP IN QATAR Libby Znaimer is joined by Bob Richardson, a member of the board of directors for Canada Soccer. Today, Canada faces off against Belgium in the world cup in host country Qatar. But, what is more remarkable than that is the fact that Canada is making its first appearance in the event in 36 years. So, how did we get here? And, what does this all mean for Canada on the world stage? Bob was also just recently featured in the Toronto Life list of most influential Torontonians for bringing the future world cup to our City in 2026 (which will be joint hosted by the US and Mexico as well). METROLINX'S PLANS TO UPROOT HISTORIC TREES AT OSGOODE HALL Libby Znaimer is joined by Steve Munro, a Toronto transit advocate followed by Mike Schreiner, leader of the Green Party of Ontario. Metrolinx has plans to cut down five trees in the historic grove at Osgoode Hall as part of its Ontario Line project and has notified the Law Society of Ontario that it will begin doing so on Dec. 5th or earlier. Our guests today explain why this is a bad idea and the damage it will do to the historic urban forest land that has been preserved for more than 200 years according to the law society.

Erin Real, Thomas Leslie, Martin Firestone, John Moore, Tom Mulcair, Dr. Mitch Shulman, Girls For the Cure, Pattie Lovett-Reid

Libby Znaimer is joined by David Peterson, former Ontario Liberal Premier, Lisa Raitt, Former Deputy Leader of Conservative Party of Canada, and Cheri DiNovo, an Order of Canada recipient and former Ontario NDP MPP. This past weekend, a video was posted online that showed Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland being verbally harassed by a man while she was in Grand Prairie, Alberta's City Hall. The Prime Minister and others have since publicly condemned the attack. But, this recorded video highlights something we've known for a long time: female politicians often face abuse and harassment both online and offline far too often. We've seen it with political leaders from all political stripes including Kathleen Wynne, Lisa McLeod, Gail Shea and many more. So, where does it end? And, will public safety minister Marco Mendicino create a plan to increase security for our politicians as the threats escalate? ---- CHAOS AT THE AIRPORT AND HOTELS BECOMING MORE LIKE AIRBNB STAYS Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Makarand Mody, Associate Professor of Hospitality Marketing and Director of Research at Boston University School of Hospitality Administration, Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc., and John Gradek, a faculty lecturer at McGill University in Montreal and a former executive with Air Canada. Today's central topic: it's been months since we've first started covering the chaos at Toronto's Pearson International Airport and flight delays and STILL it remains a problem. Libby details her first-hand account of this while traveling to Minnesota for a family reunion. And, while she made the trip, she came across another disappointment: she had booked an expensive stay at the Hyatt Hotel only to observe upon arrival that it operated more like an Airbnb and lacked amenities. It got her thinking about whether traditional hotels operating like Airbnbs have become a widespread trend these days. Our travel industry experts weigh in. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

The Sunday edition of the Best of Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Tune into the Town, with David Crombie, Karen Stintz, and outgoing Toronto city councillor Mike Layton, who talked about why he is not running for re-election - Ryan Koeslag, Peggy Brekveld, and Chris Grossman on struggles that farmers are facing with a tariff on fertilizer - Steve Jelenic on the cooling of the housing market - Martin Firestone and John Gradek on Pearson being ranked as the worst airport for delays - And the best calls of the week!

Air Canada and Toronto Pearson again rank #1 in delays worldwide and the Montreal airport check-in freezes with Martin Firestone of Travel Secure Inc  On July 25-30, the World Championship of Magic will be in Quebec City. We speak with Canadian Magician Shane Cobalt who will be performing there.

Martin Firestone is the President of Travel Secure Inc, and an insurance broker in travel medical coverage. He spoke to Ken Connors about the travel delays at the airports.

The Sunday edition of the Best of Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Julian Falconer and Dr. Wesley Crichlow respond to the apology offered by the Toronto police chief after the release of a report on race-based data -Tune Into The Town with Karen Stintz, Lauren O'Neil, and Brad Bradford on the Toronto police report - Martin Firestone, Trevor McPherson, and Dr. Barry Pakes on the ending of most COVID-19 travel requirements - Alexandr Dologpolov reacts to news that the U.S. Open will allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete - And the best calls of the week!

Jane Brown is filling in for Libby Znaimer today. She is joined by civil liberties lawyer Julian Falconer of Falconers LLP Dr. Wesley Crichlow, Professor, Critical Race Intersectional Theorist in the faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Ontario Tech University. Today: the Toronto Police released its report on race-based data collection today. Our guests weigh in on that and Chief James Reimer apology. ---- COVID-19 TESTING AT AIRPORTS AND VACCINE MANDATES FOR TRAVELLERS TO END Jane Brown is joined by Dr. Barry Pakes, Medical Officer of Health for York Region, Martin Firestone, President, Travel Secure Inc., Trevor McPherson, President and CEO, Mississauga Board of Trade. This week we learned that Ottawa will be ending the vaccine mandate for federal employees and workers in federally regulated sectors as well as air travellers on domestic flights and those going on outbound international flights. Late last week, we also learned that the feds are getting rid of random COVID-19 testing at airports. So, will these policy changes alleviate the bottlenecks, delays and other issues at Pearson and other major airports? Our experts weigh in from a scientific, business and leisurely travel standpoint. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Delayed and cancelled flights, huge waits on the tarmac after landing, even longer delays to get through security and customs. That is reality around the world as tens of thousands of people rush to fulfill their delayed holiday plans. Travel insurance expert Martin Firestone experienced it all first hand this week. Libby Znaimer reached him a few hours after he got home to talk about what to expect and how to prepare. AND This week marked the 78th anniversary of D-Day amid an ongoing effort to re-consecrate the graves of Jewish soldiers who were killed in World War 2. While many were keen to join the Allied forces to fight the Nazis - some concealed their faith because they feared worse treatment if they were captured. The result? They were buried under Christian crosses and given Christian rites. The work of finding those graves, replacing the headstones and offering descendants the proper religious ceremonies has resumed for the first time since the pandemic. But the work began in the U.S. when Shalom Lamm, an amateur historian, started Operation Benjamin.

The Saturday edition of the Best of Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - The Zoomer Squad with David Cravit, and Darrell Bricker on the aftermath of the Ontario election -Lietenant General Richard Rohmer reflects on the anniversary of D-Day - Monette Pasher and Gabor Lukacs help explain why our airports are so chaotic right now - Martin Firestone and Paul Chin on how you can help protect yourself from flight cancellations and interruptions - And the best calls of the week!

Libby Znaimer is joined by Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. and Karlee Marshall, a travel consultant with Glenny Travel in Fort Erie, Ontario. As of April 1st, Ottawa will be dropping the pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirement at the border for travellers who are fully vaccinated. Random PCR testing will still be conducted at the airport and you will still have to use the ArriveCAN app to enter proof that you are fully vaccinated and to provide other necessary information. So, what do you think about the policy shift? Do you feel more inclined to travel with this news? And, our travel experts talk about the state of travel at this point in time. ---- GLOBAL MEDIC SUPPLYING UKRAINE WITH MEDICAL AID

Libby Znaimer is joined by Marina Sol, owner of Marina Sol Travel and Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Are you thinking about traveling to Europe right now and particularly Eastern Europe? For a long time, the challenges you'd have to consider were COVID-19 related. But now there is an added layer of complexity as Russia wages war on Ukraine. So, is it even safe to be travelling to the region right now? And how will this affect your insurance? Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Libby Znaimer is joined by Marina Sol, owner of Marina Sol Travel and Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. Are you thinking about traveling to Europe right now and particularly Eastern Europe? For a long time, the challenges you'd have to consider were COVID-19 related. But now there is an added layer of complexity as Russia wages war on Ukraine. So, is it even safe to be travelling to the region right now? And how will this affect your insurance? ---- THE SITUATION ON THE GROUND IN UKRAINE Libby Znaimer is joined by Andriy Kulykov who is a radio host based in Kyiv. Andriy explains what life has become in Kyiv since Russia waged an unprovoked war on Ukraine just a week ago. ---- EDWARD BURTYNSKY IS RAISING FUNDS FOR UKRAINIANS Libby Znaimer is joined by Canadian photographer, Edward Burtynsky. Ed details his effort to raise funds for Ukrainians and talks about his own family's Ukrainian roots. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

The Sunday edition of the Best of Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Martin Firestone and Beth Potter discuss ending pre-arrival PCR testing for returning travelers - Lisa Raitt with a climate plan for the federal conservatives - David Tarrant Christine Van Geyn, and John Wright discuss how Canadians are responding to the use of the Emergency Measures Act - Peter Weltman, Peter Tabuns, and Paul Acchione talk about the cost of electricity in Ontario - And the best calls of the week!

He has been front and centre throughout the pandemic; Dr. Isaac Bogoch joins Ann Rohmer to talk about the further lifting of restrictions and discusses if it is too soon or great news? Will this increase our risk of contracting the virus. How do we continue to protect ourselves when left to our own devices. Will this (hopefully) encourage vaccinations and possibly the green light for kids under 5? How should we the public transition to a more open society? Especially those who are still fearful. Tina Cortese speaks with Dr. Jen Rouse, Clinical Psychologist with Canadian Mental Health Association York South Simcoe - for those with or without anxiety issues, the Province's announcement earlier this week about moving to the next phase of the reopening plan, the adjustment to capacity limits and the proof of vaccination requirements also lifted, some may feel uncertain and anxious about the "return to normal" The discussion continues to address the following: do you have advice to cope with these feelings? "...are there regular exercise/routines that we can practice every day to help with anxiety and panic attacks?" The Premier of Ontario himself admitted that the pandemic has been divisive within his own family; how do we begin to heal those wounds? Ann Rohmer returns with Kevin Forget from Destination Ontario looking into what to do here at home this family day long weekend. Kevin Frankish speaks with Martin Firestone – President of Travel Secure Inc. who is thrilled with the Government decision to remove PCR testing for vaccinated travelers and what is the expectation that travel industry will bounce back in a big way? Jim Lang is with Minor Hockey Coach Beau Moyer about the challenges of coaching a U12 hockey team that has played only 7 regular season games in the past 23 months because of the pandemic

Libby Znaimer is joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc., and Beth Potter, President and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. Yesterday, Ottawa announced that it would be ending the requirement for pre-arrival PCR testing for incoming travelers who are fully vaccinated. So, what does this policy shift mean for travelers thinking of coming to Canada and also our tourism industry? Our experts weigh in. ---- IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL RIGHT NOW?

The Saturday edition of the Best of Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - The Zoomer Squad with Peter Muggeridge, David Cravit, and Bill VanGorder discuss the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Ontario - Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam, Dr. Kevin Smith, and Dr. Stephanie Carvin reflect on the Ottawa protests coming to Toronto - The Strategy Panel with John Capobianco, Charles Sousa, and Karen Stintz react to the responses of the "freedom convoy" protests - Martin Firestone asks us to rethink travel restrictions - And the best calls of the week!

Libby Znaimer is joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. This week, Australia said it will open its borders to fully vaccinated travelers starting on Feb. 21. Other countries have said the same. So, what about Canada? Do we still have overly strict COVID-19 testing requirements at our airports and when can we expect the federal travel advisory to be lifted? Could our very tough restrictions for travelers be hurting our tourism industry? Marty weighs in on the latest. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Martin Firestone. President of Travel Secure. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before you go, Martin Firestone, president of Travel Secure, says make sure you know what your insurance policy covers.

Martin Firestone is the President of Travel Secure Inc, and an insurance broker in travel medical coverage

The Sunday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Bonnie Lysyk, Rocco Rossie, and Franco Terrazzano reaction to the Ontario Auditor General's report - Dr. Alon Vaisman and Martin Firestone break down what you need to know about travelling and testing - Barry Stein and Dr. Steven Gallinger explain colorectal cancer - Peter Donolo and James Stewart debate the merits of keeping the monarchy in Canada - And the best calls of the week!

The Saturday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - The Zoomer Squad with Peter Muggeridge, Bill VanGorder, and David Cravit discuss the Omicron variant and travel concerns - Dr. Peter Juni with the latest on the Omicron variant - Dr. Alon Vaisman and Martin Firestone break down what you need to know about travelling and testing - Dr. Aaron Schimmer and Bruce Karr with the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre - And the best calls of the week!

Martin Firestone is the President of Travel Secure Inc, and an insurance broker in travel medical coverage. He spoke to Andrew Carter.

Sofia Misenheimer, Dr. Leigh Vanderloo, John Moore, Tom Mulcair, Dr. Mitch Shulman, Martin Firestone, Kelly Albert

Libby Znaimer is joined by Dr. Alon Vaisman, Epidemiologist, Infectious Disease Specialist at the University Health Network (UHN) and Martin Firestone, travel expert and President of Travel Secure Inc. In light of the Omicron strain of COVID-19, Canada is instituting COVID-19 testing at airports and has expanded its travel bans to additional African countries. Where do we go from here? Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Martin Firestone joins Andrew Carter to explain

Jane Brown is joined by Mayor of Niagara Falls Jim Diodati and travel insurance expert Martin Firestone who is the President of Travel Secure Inc. This week we learned that Ottawa will be lifting its PCR testing requirement for Canadian travelers who are returning from short non-essential trips abroad. Those trips are required to have spanned less than 72 hours. Many critics think that the policy should be scrapped all together. Our guests weigh in on the latest. Listen live, weekdays from noon to 1, on Zoomer Radio!

Jason Kindrachuk on variants, Martin Firestone on travel insurance & Wade Miller on the news that Bob Irving is retiring See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sunday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Dan McTeague on the shocking rise of gas prices - Terence Kernaghan, the NDP Consumer Protection critic, on the rising costs of auto insurance - Dr. Baher Abdul-hye, Tyrenny Anderson, and Police Constable Sean Shapiro on deadly driving in the city - Martin Firestone, Richard Smart, and Dr. Frederic Dimanche on the US land border opening to non-essential travel - And the best calls of the week!

Libby Znaimer is joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc., Richard Smart, CEO and Registrar of Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) and Dr. Frederic Dimanche, Director, Ted Rogers School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. In the news: the U.S.-Canada land border is set to reopen to non-essential travellers who are fully vaccinated by sometime in early November. What does that mean for you if you are a Snowbird or plan on vacationing in the winter months? Our guests weigh in. --- PROVINCE CALLING ON FAMILY DOCTORS TO CUT BACK ON VIRTUAL CARE AND TAKE ON MORE IN-PERSON VISITS

Libby is joined by Steven Del Duca, Leader of Ontario Liberal Party, followed by Lindsay Broadhead, Senior Vice President, Communications & Public Affairs at the Toronto Region Board of Trade, Donna Dooher, co-owner of Mildred's Temple Kitchen and Dr. Alon Vaisman, Infectious Disease Specialist at the University Health Network (UHN). Yesterday, Premier Doug Ford announced a COVID-19 vaccine passport policy for the province of Ontario. Starting on Sept. 22, residents will have to show proof that they have been fully vaccinated in order to access indoor dining at restaurants, go to gyms or theatres. This proof won't, however, be necessarily needed to enter retail locations. So, just how strong will this new measure be and what does the business community think about the latest news? Our guests explain. ---- OVERCROWDING AT PEARSON AIRPORT Libby is joined by Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc. and Dr. Gabor Lukacs,

The Sunday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Leanne Wright, Dr. Belinda Curpen, and Dr. Chi-Ming Chow on symptoms associated with the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines - Patrick Brown, Stegania Capovilla, and Nikita Lee want to see cosmetics and care industry businesses opened up sooner - Gene Jochen, Zaneta Rochemont, and Martin Firestone try to decipher the rules surrounding international travel - Michael Balagus on the Ontario NDPs election strategy - And the best calls of the week!

The Sunday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Bob Komsic Interviews with: - Ari Goldkind and Phil Gurski discuss the complexities of terrorism charges in response to the attack in London, Ontario - Dave Sholz, Martin Firestone, and Kerry Bowman react to news of vaccine passports being approved in Manitoba - Stephen Del Duca, David Terrant, and Michael Bryant react to Doug Ford's decision to invoke the notwithstanding clause for the first time in Ontario history - Christopher Hudspeth explains why the BIA in the gay village wants to remove the statue of Alexander Wood - And the best calls of the week!

Libby Znaimer is joined by criminal defence lawyer, Ari Goldkind, Phil Gurski, President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consultants and a former strategic analyst at CSIS and Jeff Bennett, a former PC candidate for London West. Is it a hate crime or an act of terror? There's been plenty of ways that the tragedy in London, ON has been described, which saw a family of Islamic faith run over by a 20-year-old driving a truck. Our legal and security experts weigh in. And, Jeff explains his regret about not speaking out against racism back in the day when he was on the campaign trail. VACCINE PASSPORTS IN CANADA Libby Znaimer is joined by Dave Sholz, Executive Vice President of Leger, Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure Inc., and Dr. Kerry Bowman, a bioethicist

Catch up on what you missed on an episode of The Richard Syrett Show. Richard Syrett kicks off the show with a good friend of the show, Lou Schizas. True North News Founder and Editor-In-Chief, Candice Malcolm speaks about Federal Health Minister Hajdu dismissing the helpful powers of Vitamin D to prevent COVID. President of Travel Secure, Martin Firestone speaks about vaccine passports and Premier Ford wanting a 3-day hotel quarantine for interprovincial travelers. Small-town physician and lover of freedom, Dr. Patrick Phillips on the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario warning doctors to tow party line on COVID. After, Lou Schizas participates once again for “News Not In the News.” Executive Director of the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project, Mehmet Tohti speaks on his skepticism of the Canadian fashion brands denying the use of forced labour in China. News Editor of the Western Standard, Dave Naylor on “No More Lockdown Rodeo.” Rebel News Mission Specialist & Host of “Rebel Roundup,” David Menzies talks about the Massive Montreal Anti-Lockdown protests over the weekend.

The Sunday edition of the Best Fight Back, from the week that was, with Jane Brown Interviews with: - Dr. Lawrence Loh on third wave closures - Justin Bates and Dean Miller on pharmacy vaccine plans - Dr. Peter Juni and Dr. Alon Vaisman on new stay-at-home orders - Martin Firestone on news of cross-border vaccine trips - And the best calls of the week!

Snowbirds are upset that they have to abide by new quarantine protocols that require them to pay up. Should anyone care? We're talking to Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure, Travel Insurance Broker 

Top stories today: Buying back guns, or buying votes? Trudeau announced some major changes to gun ownership today, including illegal guns which many people think should be owning more of the spotlight. We chat with Bill Blair. Snowbirds complaining Much to the angst of anyone who isn't a snowbird. Do these people have any real right to complain about the situation they're in?  Taxi industry during the pandemic Lots of cab drivers have switched their vehicles to their own, driving for companies like Uber and Lyft instead. Is the industry in trouble? Much more in the full episode! _____________ NAVIGATE THE PODCAST:  Chapter 1 Trudeau addresses gun safety across Canada We chat with the federal public safety minister Bill Blair. Chapter 2 Ben Murphy's travel adventures We spoke to former TransLink media person Ben Murphy last week, about travelling back to Australia. Today, he gives us his final update, and likely his farewell to CKNW. Chapter 3 Snowbirds looking for loopholes Snowbirds are upset that they have to abide by new quarantine protocols that require them to pay up. Should anyone care? We're talking to Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure, Travel Insurance Broker  Chapter 4 Why do building projects take so long in Vancouver? Have you ever wondered this? Frances Bula is someone who definitely has, she joins us.  Chapter 5 Tow truck drops camper off at Strathcona Park This happened yesterday, and social media blew up wondering what the hell was happening. Someone reporting it initially was Park Board Commissioner John Coupar, who Eric had a chance to speak to. Chapter 6 The taxi industry on its last leg? We chat with former regular guest, Gurdip Sahota, who is the GM of Sunshine Cabs Chapter 7 Guns on the street. So why punish legal owners?  Eric caught up with Doug Spencer who is a former police officer, and current member of the Odd Squad.  Doug explains how easy it is to get guns.  _____________   Remember to wash your hands, practice physical distancing, and stay home at all costs if you are sick. We're not out of the woods yet!    The Lynda Steele Full Show podcast includes all the individual segments that can be found on the Lynda Steele Show page, digitally stitched together for your convenience.    Listen live online at globalnews.ca/radio/cknw/ 3-6 PM!

Catch up on what you missed on The Rush Hour. Hosts Elvira Caria and John Scholes talk with Lou Berkovits about AFFORDABLE living in Ontario. Then, the crew talks to the author of “THE NEXT SUPPER: The End of Restaurants as We Knew Them, And What Comes Next”, Corey Mintz about the future of eating out. Jevohn Shepherd stops by to provide a preview of next week's NFL Super Bowl Match. Also, Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure explains latest COVID19 Travel restrictions & Airport Closures. Lastly, Scholes and Caria speak with Annalisa Merelli COVID-19 vaccines showing promise in slowing the ongoing pandemic.

Catch up on what you missed on The Rush Hour. Hosts Elvira Caria and John Scholes talk with Mississauga Mayor, Bonnie Crombie to discuss COVID-19 outbreaks within the city. Then, the crew talks to a good friend of the show, Dr. Luigi Nalli of Pinpoint Health Clinics. Also, Dr. Michael Nicin, Executive Director of Ryerson's National Institute of Ageing explains the crisis that the long-term care system is currently experiencing as well as what this means for a growing older population. Lastly, Scholes and Caria speak with Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure. Martin will talk about how travel to the U.S. is becoming a little more complicated as newly appointed President Joe Biden places new measures and orders into effect.

Evan Solomon digs into vaccine supply issues and a new unidentified strain of COVID-19 found in an Ontario nursing home.  On today's show:  Evan discusses the Inauguration celebration and compares it to Canada's transition of power celebrations.  We play Evan's full interview with MP Derek Sloan who was just ousted from the Conservative caucus.   Martin Firestone, a travel insurance broker in Toronto with TravelSecure, talks about Florida cracking down vaccine-tourism.  Evan discusses Biden's decision to cancel the Keystone XL pipeline and Premier Kenney's response.  Harvey Bischof, president of Ontario Secondary School Teacher's Federation, shares his reaction to a new report on Ontario's school safety during the pandemic.  Dr. Isaac Bogoch, infectious diseases physician at the Toronto General Hospital and a member of Ontario's COVID-19 vaccine task force, discusses a new strain of COVID-19 and the vaccination schedule.  Rylan Parrott, talks about how his ice fishing videos have gone viral on TikTok. 

Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure, Travel Insurance Broker talks about Ottawa advising Canadians not to travel abroad. 

Martin Firestone, President of Travel Secure talks about the travel insurance industry and that they may not offer out of country travel insurance due to corona virus