Podcast appearances and mentions of supriya dwivedi

Canada's new Online Safety Act could fundamentally change how Canadians (especially young people) experience the internet. From age restrictions on social media and new obligations for tech companies to concerns about privacy, free expression, and government oversight, the legislation is already sparking fierce debate. Digital policy experts Supriya Dwivedi and Vass Bednar (4:30) join us in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West to break down what's actually in the bill, who's likely to be affected, and whether Ottawa is striking the right balance between protecting users and preserving online freedoms.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR NORTHERN EYES SEVEN-YEAR SHERRY CASK, AVAILABLE JUST IN TIME FOR FATHERS' DAY! HANSEN IS PROUDLY LOCAL, ALWAYS ORIGINAL. https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ CANADIAN SHIELD INSTITUTE: https://canadianshieldinstitute.ca/ 43:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the Supriya/Vass interview, and see what Real Talkers have to say about Canada's Online Safety Act in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 54:00 | Are you planning on investing in the SpaceX IPO? Are you worried about all this "technical recession" talk? Cary Williams from North Road Investment Counsel gives us a few important things to think about.  NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL: https://www.northroadic.com/ 1:27:00 | Jespo shares a few thoughts after hosting the Junior Achievement Northern Alberta Business Hall of Fame. What's the best entrepreneurial or life advice you've ever received?  JA of NORTHERN ALBERTA: https://janorthalberta.org/ 1:39:00 | Siksika filmmaker Sinakson Trevor Solway is the inspiration behind this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta, submitted by Real Talker Jerry. We feature Solway's documentary Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man, winner of the Best of Festival Golden Sheaf Award and Best Feature Documentary at the Yorkton Film Festival.  WATCH THE FILM: https://youtu.be/eJ3zrC0h_lM?si=g3WmT8I_0JrfZ1O7 ALBERTA WINS WITH PLAY ALBERTA BECAUSE ALL REVENUE STAYS IN ALBERTA. WHETHER YOU PLAY, BET, OR BUY - WITH CASINO, SPORTS, OR LOTTERY - KNOW THAT YOUR FUN ALSO HELPS MAKE A DIFFERENCE ACROSS THE PROVINCE. LEARN MORE AT https://playalberta.ca/. MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, USE YOUR GAMESENSE.  1:42:00 | You'll never guess who Jespo ran into last night. We wrap the show with a "last call" story.  REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC presented by KUBY ENERGY on JUNE 18 at THE RANCH: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ ALBERTA BUSINESS OWNERS: ALBERTA CHAMBERS of COMMERCE WANT TO KNOW YOUR TOP PRIORITIES FOR THE PROVINCE. PARTICIPATE IN THE ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY BEFORE 5PM MT ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12: https://research.albertaperspectives.... REAL TALK'S LIVE STREAM IS PRESENTED BY CALIFORNIA CLOSETS. BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ SIGN UP for YEGplus, CANADA'S FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM: https://yegplus.com/realtalk SAVE 10% on ONLINE MEN'S CLOTHING PURCHASES at THE HELM with promo code REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ SUPPORT INTEGRATED FIREFIGHTER-PARAMEDIC SERVICE IN ALBERTA: https://www.apffpa.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch SHOPPING FOR LUXURY CASUAL WEAR OR A CUSTOM SUIT? SAVE 10% ONLINE WITH PROMO CODE REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Strength in numbers. That's Pierre Poilievre's call to the provinces as a nation-wide alternative to Alberta separation. Will Quebec play along? We get into an advance copy of Poilievre's speech (14:00) with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. But first...what will come from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's meeting with Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette (9:00)? And later...what's the key takeaway from new Ipsos polling (17:30) showing waning support for Alberta leaving Canada?  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. LOOK FOR HANSEN'S BRAND NEW "DISTILLED BY HER" GIN, WITH A PORTION OF PROCEEDS BENEFITING WIN HOUSE. VISIT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  IPSOS POLL: https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/limited-and-declining-support-separation-alberta 27:00 | Supriya gives us the pros and cons of Canada's AI strategy, announced last week. We get into Althia Raj's column on PM Carney "yelling" at MPs (42:15), Donald Trump abruptly ending a Meet the Press interview (56:30), and Scott Pelley spilling the tea on Bari Weiss and CBS News in an interview with the New York Times (1:09:30).  1:13:30 | What are true Canadian values? And who's the GOAT childrens' performer? Real Talkers have their say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:45:15 | We LOVE these poems about Canada submitted by Real Talker Katherine, a grade four teacher in Tofield, Alberta. A perfect Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby!  REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC presented by KUBY ENERGY on JUNE 18 at THE RANCH: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ REAL TALK'S LIVE STREAM IS PRESENTED BY CALIFORNIA CLOSETS. BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ SIGN UP for YEGplus, CANADA'S FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM: https://yegplus.com/realtalk SAVE 10% on ONLINE MEN'S CLOTHING PURCHASES at THE HELM with promo code REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ SUPPORT INTEGRATED FIREFIGHTER-PARAMEDIC SERVICE IN ALBERTA: https://www.apffpa.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch SHOPPING FOR LUXURY CASUAL WEAR OR A CUSTOM SUIT? SAVE 10% ONLINE WITH PROMO CODE REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It may be too late to stamp out separatist sentiment in Alberta, but we don't have to fan the flames. Guest host Supriya Dwivedi hashes it out with strategist Zain Velji, commentator Rachel Gilmore, and Lead Not Leave co-founder Jen Gerson in feature interviews presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. LOOK FOR HANSEN'S BRAND NEW "DISTILLED BY HER" GIN, WITH A PORTION OF PROCEEDS BENEFITING WIN HOUSE. VISIT https://hansendistillery.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC on JUNE 18 at THE RANCH: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... REAL TALK'S LIVE STREAM IS PRESENTED BY CALIFORNIA CLOSETS. BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ SIGN UP for YEGplus, CANADA'S FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM: https://yegplus.com/realtalk SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ SAVE 10% on ONLINE MEN'S CLOTHING PURCHASES at THE HELM with promo code REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ SUPPORT INTEGRATED FIREFIGHTER-PARAMEDIC SERVICE IN ALBERTA: https://www.apffpa.ca/ GET A $50 CASINO BONUS FROM PLAY ALBERTA: https://try.playalberta.ca/lp/realtalk/ MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch SHOPPING FOR LUXURY CASUAL WEAR OR A CUSTOM SUIT? SAVE 10% ONLINE WITH PROMO CODE REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Premiers in B.C. and Ontario are calling out their colleague in Alberta for her "bad behaviour". This, as Western premiers gather in Kananaskis for their annual meeting on trade, the economy, energy security, defence and nation-building projects. Supriya Dwivedi digs into public statements from David Eby and Doug Ford in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (4:00). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. LOOK FOR HANSEN'S BRAND NEW "DISTILLED BY HER" GIN, WITH A PORTION OF PROCEEDS BENEFITING WIN HOUSE. VISIT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:03:00 | U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra says Americans are "disappointed and frustrated" at the lack of progress in trade talks between the two countries. Supriya lays out the political ramifications of fruitless negotiations (to this point). TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:13:00 | Jespo and Johnny see what Real Talkers are saying in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. We get into the Vegas Golden Knights' domination of the Western Conference Final, and remember NASCAR legend Kyle Busch, dead at 41.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 1:41:10 | The Ben Stelter School Fundraiser is Canada's largest multi-school, student-led fundraiser, having generated more than $287,000 last year alone. They're rallying support for the Ben Stelter Centre for Proton Therapy and Neuroscience, Canada's first proton therapy centre slated to open in Edmonton in 2028. We feature this remarkable initiative in Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. SIGN UP YOUR SCHOOL: https://benstelterschoolfundraiser.com/ GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC on JUNE 18 at THE RANCH: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... REAL TALK'S LIVE STREAM IS PRESENTED BY CALIFORNIA CLOSETS. BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ SIGN UP for YEGplus, CANADA'S FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM: https://yegplus.com/realtalk SAVE 10% on ONLINE MEN'S CLOTHING PURCHASES at THE HELM with promo code REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ SUPPORT INTEGRATED FIREFIGHTER-PARAMEDIC SERVICE IN ALBERTA: https://www.apffpa.ca/ SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ GET A $50 CASINO BONUS FROM PLAY ALBERTA: https://try.playalberta.ca/lp/realtalk/ MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch SHOPPING FOR LUXURY CASUAL WEAR OR A CUSTOM SUIT? SAVE 10% ONLINE WITH PROMO CODE REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

This is a really big deal. As we record this episode, Ottawa and Alberta are closing in on an agreement that will see industrial carbon pricing rise more gradually (reportedly to $130 a tonne by 2040 instead of $170 by 2030). Industry says certainty matters. Investors say pricing matters. And politically? The timing is impossible to ignore. With separatist sentiment simmering and talk of a referendum this fall, some see this as Ottawa finally showing flexibility with Alberta — maybe even an example of Confederation actually working. But not everybody's celebrating. BC Premier David Eby says Alberta may be getting special treatment that could put other provinces at a competitive disadvantage. So now the question becomes: is this smart economic policy, political damage control, or both? We unpack what this deal could mean for Alberta's economy, emissions targets, national unity, and the broader future of carbon pricing in Canada with political commentator Rob Breakenridge (4:10) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. READ ROB'S WORK: https://robbreakenridge.substack.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 40:00 | Supriya Dwivedi joins us outside her regular Monday appearance with an inside scoop on a media controversy that's raising serious questions about newsroom culture, editorial independence, and the blurry line between reporting and opinion. After publicly criticizing a Toronto Star report on Mark Carney and Nate Erskine-Smith, Supriya says the paper pulled her column over a tweet that challenged the story's accuracy — even after the Star later issued a correction. We get into what happened behind the scenes, the Star's social media policy, and whether legacy media organizations are struggling to handle internal dissent in an era of real-time commentary and public accountability. (And, of course, we ask her about the Alberta-Ottawa emissions deal.) TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:11:30 | We've been SLAMMED with emails re: the court ruling against the separatist petition and the Alberta data breach. Real Talkers Reg in Calgary, Dom in Calgary, Peaches in Alberta Beach, K-Park, Anne, Jeff, Alex, JJ Needs a Nap, and Michael sound off in The Flamethrower proudly presented by the DQs in Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  WHEN YOU VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  SIGN UP for YEGplus, CANADA'S FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM: https://yegplus.com/realtalk REAL TALK'S LIVE STREAM IS PRESENTED BY CALIFORNIA CLOSETS. BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ ENTER TO WIN TWO TICKETS TO OPENING NIGHT OF "SIEGFRIED" PRESENTED BY EDMONTON OPERA ON MAY 25: Email talk@ryanjespersen.com with RealTalkRJEO in the subject line. Winner will be drawn Tuesday, May 19 and notified by email. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch SHOPPING FOR LUXURY CASUAL WEAR OR A CUSTOM SUIT? SAVE 10% ONLINE WITH PROMO CODE REALTALK: https://thehelmclothing.com/ RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The head of CSIS, Canada's intelligence agency, says the upcoming Alberta referendum is "rife for disinformation and foreign interference". Are we equipped as a nation to address that? Supriya Dwivedi lays out what it all means in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (4:30).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 20:00 | American lawmakers are calling out the Carney Liberals for Bill C-22, saying the Lawful Access Bill is, well, crazy. Supriya tells us why she agrees with the Americans. We get into the bizarre developments early in the Ontario Liberal leadership race (27:15), and take a quick look at growing calls from British Labour MPs for PM Keir Starmer to step down (35:00).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  SIGN UP for YEGplus - THE FIRST AIRPORT REWARDS PROGRAM IN CANADA: https://yegplus.com/realtalk 44:10 | Fire fighters across Alberta are sounding the alarm as a number of municipalities prepare to vote on the future of their emergency medical response. They say the changes could (and will) impact integrated firefighter-paramedic response models that Albertans rely on every day. We welcome APFFPA president Elliott Davis, Strathcona County's Eric Lowe, Lethbridge's Patrick Musira, and Red Deer's Brad Readman.  AB PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS AND PARAMEDICS ASSOCIATION: https://www.apffpa.ca/ 1:48:30 | Real Talker Kimm shares a bouquet with the show and sprinkles some salty language at the end of this week's Positive Reflection proudly presented by Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/solar BOOK YOUR FREE CALIFORNIA CLOSETS CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at EDMONTON CONVENTION CENTRE: https://www.edmontonconventioncentre.... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Millions of Albertans have been betrayed by bad actors fighting for separation. A major data breach involving Alberta's voter registry is raising serious questions about privacy, security, and political extremism. Reports suggest a separatist group may have accessed and distributed sensitive personal information, potentially putting thousands of Albertans at risk. How did this happen, who's responsible, and what are the consequences for public trust in our democracy? We break it down with Supriya Dwivedi (4:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  37:00 | Supriya updates us on the China/India foreign interference story, and comments on Pierre Poilievre's demand for Mark Carney to be more transparent on Canada's ongoing negotiations with the U.S. 49:00 | Great news for travellers in and around Edmonton, as Porter Airlines announces four new destinations out of YEG. Porter Airlines VP Andrew Pierce and YEG VP James Jackson tell us how the deal came about, and what it means for the metro Edmonton region. We get James' take on Ottawa's musings around private ownership of airports and a potential (huge) infusion of investment and talent relating to Canada's defence strategy. SIGN UP FOR YEGplus: yegplus.com/realtalk 1:12:30 | Real Talkers have their say on the voter list data breach in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:38:30 | Real Talker Hayley authors this week's Positive Reflections, celebrating an historic win at the Kentucky Derby. Positive Reflections is proudly presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at EDMONTON CONVENTION CENTRE: https://www.edmontonconventioncentre.... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

A dramatic security breach at the White House Correspondents' Dinner has people questioning, well, everything. Supriya Dwivedi and Rachel Gilmore get into it in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. Rachel tells us about being targeted by white nationalists in Montreal (26:00), Supriya's concerned Manitoba's new youth social media ban won't work (49:20), and we dissect former Conservative leader Erin O'Toole's criticism of Pierre Poilievre's tenure (1:05:30).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY OUR FRIENDS AT HANSEN DISTILLERY, THE FIRST DISTILLERY EVER TO RELEASE A SEVEN-YEAR AGED ALBERTA WHISKY. SHOP THEIR ALBERTA WHISKY LINEUP TODAY AT https://hansendistillery.com/. READ RACHEL'S WORK: https://rachelgilmore.substack.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:23:10 | Was it in? Jespo and Johnny debrief after a dramatic game four overtime outcome in the Oilers-Ducks series.  1:33:20 | Thank you to everybody who supported our fundraising for the Alzheimer's Pro-Am Hockey Tournament! Ryan reveals the total funds raised and shares a few thoughts after a very meaningful weekend. Positive Reflections is proudly presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at EDMONTON CONVENTION CENTRE: https://www.edmontonconventioncentre.... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada's deep ties to the U.S. are now a liability (and they need fixing) as Donald Trump's tariffs keep workers in our auto, steel, and lumber sectors squarely in the crosshairs. Is this any different than the PM's message over the past year? We get into the strategy behind it with Supriya Dwivedi (3:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY OUR FRIENDS AT HANSEN DISTILLERY, THE FIRST DISTILLERY EVER TO RELEASE A SEVEN-YEAR AGED ALBERTA WHISKY. SHOP THEIR ALBERTA WHISKY LINEUP TODAY AT https://hansendistillery.com/. 37:15 | Was Pierre Poilievre a winner at UFC Winnipeg alongside Canadian fighter Mike Malott? Supriya takes us into the optics - good and bad - of the Conservative leader's very public appearance. We discuss Canada's next potential Olympic hosting bids, and allegations Alberta's UCP government is gerrymandering (1:04:20).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:15:00 | Jespo and Johnny are all geared up for Game One of the Oilers' playoff run. We check in with Real Talkers in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 1:26:00 | Jespo's got a personal Positive Reflection after a very meaningful hockey game over the weekend. Positive Reflections is proudly presented by Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at EDMONTON CONVENTION CENTRE: https://www.edmontonconventioncentre.... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Yes, it's real. President Donald Trump is out with a profanity-laced threat toward Iran, setting a firm deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and warning of devastating strikes on key infrastructure if that doesn't happen. We're talking about a rapidly intensifying conflict that's already shaken global markets, disrupted supply chains, and driven up fuel prices — in just over five weeks. So where is this headed? Is this high-stakes brinkmanship, or something far more dangerous? We get into it with political analyst Supriya Dwivedi (11:30) - unpacking the rhetoric, the risks, and what it all means for Canada and the global economy - in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY OUR FRIENDS AT HANSEN DISTILLERY, THE FIRST DISTILLERY EVER TO RELEASE A SEVEN-YEAR AGED ALBERTA WHISKY. SHOP THEIR ALBERTA WHISKY LINEUP TODAY AT https://hansendistillery.com/. 33:00 | Were you as surprised as Jespo was when the results of the 2026 Kraft Hockeyville contest were announced on Hockey Night in Canada? What do you think Kraft and the NHL should have done? EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 51:50 | Prime Minister Mark Carney could (and likely will) have a majority government eight days from now. Supriya tells us which by-election storylines she's keeping the closest eye on.  1:13:00 | Wages are on the table in episode three of Worker Agenda. Jespo and Johnny see what Real Talkers have to say about minimum wage in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. WATCH WORKER AGENDA - WAGES: https://rtrj.info/WA3 LISTEN ON SPOTIFY: https://rtrj.info/WA3s LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://rtrj.info/WA3a SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:34:10 | We honour the sacrifice of a Canadian soldier more than a century after his combat death, courtesy of Real Talker Jerry, in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

CTV’s Heather Wright; CSA Astronaut Joshua Kutryk; CTV’s Genevieve Beauchemin; Canada’s first female astronaut in space Dr. Roberta Bondar; The Front Bench panel with Supriya Dwivedi, Sharan Kaur, Sebastian Skamski and Jamie Ellerton; CTV’s Joy Malbon; CTV’s Jackie Perez.

Avi Lewis will lead Canada's NDP from here. On the heels of the filmmaker's big leadership win, we talk to Supriya Dwivedi (4:15) about immediate pushback from Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi and Saskatchewan NDP leader Carla Beck, Manitoba premier Wab Kinew's glowing endorsement, and political implications across the country. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. 48:45 | Does Alberta premier Danielle Smith need to condemn separatist support within her caucus? Did Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau have any other option but to retire (58:00)? How big of a headache has Liberal MP Michael Ma created for PM Carney with his China comments (1:14:00)? Supriya and Jespo get to it all. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:38:30 | Did you catch our March 13 interview on "curling parents" with child psychologist Dr. Caroline Buzanko? It resonated with Real Talker Lisa, who authors this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ WATCH THE DR. BUZANKO INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/031326Caroline FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Two pilots are dead after an Air Canada jet collides with a fire truck on a runway at New York's LaGuardia Airport. Pundits continue to chime in on Pierre Poilievre's interview with podcaster Joe Rogan. Alberta premier Danielle Smith wants security clearance to be privy to foreign interference briefings in Alberta. We get into it all with Supriya Dwivedi (4:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:15:00 | Real Talkers Shyla and Chantal share their thoughts on new MAiD legislation in Alberta. HAVE YOUR SAY: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:28:00 | Real Talker "BoomShankerX" shares how the show has impacted him in this week's Positive Reflection presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Ottawa continues to say it will stay out of any offensive action in the Iran war, but a joint statement with allies says Canada is ready for 'appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage' in the Strait of Hormuz. Zain Velji, Michael Solberg and Supriya Dwivedi debate how much political room there is for Ottawa to get involved in the region.

One year in, what letter grade would you give Mark Carney? Kate Harrison and Supriya Dwivedi break down the highs and lows of the first year of Prime Minister Carney and give him his final grade! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Few figures in Canadian broadcasting spark debate like Don Cherry. Now, a push to see the former Coach's Corner star appointed to the Order of Canada—championed by voices in the Conservative Party of Canada, including MP Andrew Lawton and backed by Alberta premier Danielle Smith—is reigniting old arguments about one of the country's most polarizing personalities. Cherry is celebrated by supporters as a hockey icon and outspoken patriot, but critics point to years of controversial comments about immigrants, Indigenous people, and women in sports media—controversies that ultimately ended his run on Hockey Night in Canada. The proposal is already drawing criticism, including from Conservatives in Quebec, setting up a national debate: should a cultural lightning rod like Cherry receive one of Canada's highest honours? We get into it with Supriya Dwivedi (3:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 49:30 | Did you hear Manitoba premier Wab Kinew's comments about the war in Iran and the Epstein files? We get Supriya's take on it before covering MP Lori Idlout crossing the floor from the NDP to the Liberals (53:20), Avi Lewis and Naomi Klein poking fun at former Alberta cabinet minister Shannon Phillips (59:30), and Edmonton police chief Warren Driechel's controversial trip to Israel (1:05:00).  1:18:30 | Real Talkers chime in on Don Cherry's legacy in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 1:28:00 | We love stories like this! Real Talker Aubrie shares about Edson's Abilities Hockey Program in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Pressure is mounting on Canada's Prime Minister as the US-Israel war on Iran enters its second week. Mark Carney's own MPs are reportedly concerned about the PM's initial support for the strikes, and confused by a shift over the following days. What's the right move for Carney...and for Canada? We get into it with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview (3:45) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 37:30 | Where is the best or worst place to live in Canada as a woman? Ryan and Supriya dig into the data with researcher Katherine Scott from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. PANDEMIC IMPACT on WOMEN (2023): https://www.policyalternatives.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/still-in-recovery-FINAL.pdf BEST/WORST PLACES in CANADA to be a WOMAN: https://www.policyalternatives.ca/news-research/the-best-and-worst-places-to-be-a-woman-in-canada-2019/ 1:12:30 | Jespo and Johnny chat about changing attitudes through generations. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:28:00 | Real Talker Marie shares what she's doing for community members in Tumbler Ridge, BC in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The United States and Israel are at war with Iran. What does that mean for Canada? Supriya Dwivedi joins (3:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. We also cover a curious statement from a senior government official implying Indian foreign interference is no longer a thing in Canada, and wild findings that just a handful of social media accounts are responsible for the majority of misinformation and online conspiracies. (Are you suprised?) THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR, AVAILABLE THE SECOND WEEK OF MARCH AT https://hansendistillery.com/. CHECK OUT THE MEDIA ECOSYSTEM OBSERVATORY REPORT ON CONSPIRATORIAL CLAIMS: https://meo.ca/work/conspiratorial-claims-and-institutional-distrust-in-canadas-online-ecosystem 53:10 | The Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) is calling for a province-wide day of protest against the UCP government. President Gil McGowan explains why fighting is the only option. LEARN MORE: fightbacknow.ca  CHECK OUT THE NEWEST EPISODE OF WORKER AGENDA -- DEMOCRACY: https://youtu.be/1C3Tynn69qg?si=IoWi35wzvFUs3UHX 1:44:00 | Real Talker Sheryl shares how Real Talk has "made (her) life better," including a "lovely and brilliant PhD student" renting a room in her home as a result of our May 2024 Real Talk Round Table: "What's the Best Advice You've Ever Received?" WATCH THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/052424ADVICE SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Prime Minister Carney is wheels up for a 10-day international trade mission, which includes a stop in India. It comes as Ottawa is looking to reset diplomatic relations with the world's third-largest economy. CTV's Annie Bergeron-Oliver tells us what federal officials are saying about the Canada-India relationship. We also check in with Supriya Dwivedi, a former Senior Advisor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. On today's show: Canadian pollster Nik Nanos says a 2026 federal election is likely based on the latest national polling numbers. Talk Science To Me with CTV Science and Technology specialist Dan Riskin: Everything you need to know about Tuesday's Total Lunar Eclipse. The Daily Debrief Panel - featuring Graham Richardson, Rob Benzie, and Mike LeCouteur. Mary Fitilchyan, a lawyer who represents victims of Jeffrey Epstein, talks about the latest developments with the Epstein Files. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre chimes in on the Canada-USA relationship. We deliver some of the key highlights from his speech.

In this episode of The Discourse, Erika Barootes is joined by guest co-host Supriya Dwivedi for a sharp, no-nonsense conversation on Canada's growing immigration and separation tensions. Together, they unpack rising separatist sentiment in Alberta, strained federal-provincial relations, and the hard questions around immigration levels, integration, and economic capacity. From Alberta to Quebec, this episode confronts the leadership vacuum, policy contradictions, and public frustration shaping Canada's next chapter — and asks what it will take to hold the country together.

In this episode of The Discourse, Erika Barootes is joined by guest co-host Supriya Dwivedi for a sharp, no-nonsense conversation on Canada's growing immigration and separation tensions. Together, they unpack rising separatist sentiment in Alberta, strained federal-provincial relations, and the hard questions around immigration levels, integration, and economic capacity. From Alberta to Quebec, this episode confronts the leadership vacuum, policy contradictions, and public frustration shaping Canada's next chapter — and asks what it will take to hold the country together.

Jamil Jivani says Canada's shooting itself in the foot with an "anti-American hissy fit." The Conservative MP made the comments to right wing outlet Breitbart after meeting with his college pal (and current US vice-president) JD Vance and President Donald Trump during a solo mission to D.C. earlier this month. Supriya Dwivedi tells us how she thinks Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre should respond to the Jivani situation (26:20) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. HANSEN IS WISHING CANADA'S ATHLETES BEST OF LUCK AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES. RAISE A GLASS TO TEAM CANADA: https://hansendistillery.com/ 3:00 | We lead with Tumbler Ridge, BC, where Prime Minister Mark Carney and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre joined hundreds of mourners in person (and millions more across the country), offering a commitment to support town residents over the long term. We tackle new developments in the Canada-India saga (43:00), including what Supriya says is a disastrous photo opp involving Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand. Are you as nervous as Ryan is about Meta's new facial recognition glasses (51:15)? We get into it with Supriya first, then Real Talkers have their say (1:02:00) in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:30:30 | Real Talker Tiffany celebrates Rev. Jesse Jackson's legacy with a Positive Reflection just hours after the civil rights activist's passing. Positive Reflections is presented weekly by our friends at Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show draws a record audience AND the ire of President Donald Trump, who calls it "absolutely terrible, one of the worst EVER". We get into alllllllll the details with Supriya Dwivedi (2:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. We cover Conservative MP Jamil Jivani's trip to D.C. (21:00), Trump's now-deleted social media post depicting the Obamas as primates (38:40), Stephane Dion calling out Danielle Smith (48:45), and developments in the Canada-India relationship (1:09:00).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below or email talk@ryanjespersen.com  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:18:30 | Real Talker Ryan can't help but wonder what might have been, had Calgarians voted to bid on another Winter Olympic Games. Would you like to see the Olympics back in Canada?  1:34:30 | Real Talker Garth shares a firsthand perspective on the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, and how his Alberta employer is aiding Jamaicans in need, in this week's Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby.  SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com BOOK A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's been a wild few days in the United States. Another U.S. citizen is dead at the hands of ICE agents, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is publicly endorsing Alberta separatism, and President Donald Trump is threatening 100% tariffs on Canada following PM Mark Carney's deal with China. We get into it all with Supriya Dwivedi (3:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:15:00 | Real Talkers share their family's rules on screen time, social media access, etc. in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: 1:32:30 | Real Talker Lisa in B.C. has this week's Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby. We love to hear it - welcome to the family, Lisa!  SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Free For All Friday - Hour 1 Amanda Galbraith breaks down the biggest stories of the day with Canada's top newsmakers. On today's show: Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder and alleged drug kingpin, is now in police custody after being arrested in Mexico. We gather instant reaction from CTV public safety analyst Chris Lewis, who is also a former OPP Commissioner. Prime Minister Carney addressed the world in Davos earlier this week. Some liked what he said. Canada's next-door neighbour did not. Joining us to discuss further is Matina Stevis-Gridneff, the Canada Bureau Chief for the New York Times. Movie critic Richard Crouse offers his take on this year's Oscar nominations, and also talks a little bit of Heated Rivalry. Free For All Friday - Hour 2 Contributors from all over the country join The Roundtable to discuss the top stories of the week. Today's edition features Canada Shield Institute managing director Vass Bednar and former Justin Trudeau senior advisor Supriya Dwivedi. Topic 1: Reaction to Prime Minister Carney’s address in Davos this week. Was it a hit or miss? Topic 2: The Canadian government is reportedly considering a ban on social media for kids under the age of 14. Good idea or bad idea? Topic 3: The House of Commons returns next week, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre braces for a party leadership review. Topic 4: Do you plan to embrace the Polar Vortex, or will you hibernate straight through it? Topic 5: The Beckham family drama captivates the Entertainment news cycle.

Did PM Mark Carney's "Canola for EVs" deal with China really split Canadians? Auto workers in Ontario may not love lifting tariffs on Chinese EVs, but that doesn't make it the wrong move, argues Supriya Dwivedi (3:00). We talk Trump's Board of Peace proposal (43:00), Steve Bannon's inflammatory comments about Canada (51:20), Iran (1:00:30), and the Federal Court of Appeal's ruling on the Emergencies Act ending the Freedom Convoy Ottawa Occupation (1:04:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 1:13:20 | Jespo and Johnny debrief and dip into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:33:10 | Did you catch that remarkable moment in the Jacksonville Jags' news conference following the Wild Card loss to the Buffalo Bills? Real Talker Justin submits reporter Lynn Jones-Turpin's comments to coach Liam Coen for this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.   SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

In this 1832nd episode of Toronto Mike'd, Mike chats with Reshmi Nair and Supriya Dwivedi about their common experiences working on the AM dial in Toronto radio, Mike Stafford, Scott MacArthur, and the world at large. Toronto Mike'd is proudly brought to you by Great Lakes Brewery, Palma Pasta, Ridley Funeral Home, Nick Ainis, and RecycleMyElectronics.ca. If you would like to support the show, we do have partner opportunities available. Please email Toronto Mike at mike@torontomike.com.

Venezuela. Greenland. Iran. A Minnesota mom is dead, and ICE protests continue across the country. POTUS is threatening to indict the Federal Reserve Chair. You could argue all hell has *already* broken loose in the United States, but is the nation headed toward a legit breaking point? Supriya Dwivedi gets into it (3:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. 38:10 | Where should PM Mark Carney's focus be in China, and what would define a successful visit? Supriya tells us what she's keeping an eye on. Plus, should Canada (and other countries) consider banning X if the platform can't prevent users from using its AI tool to generate sexual deepfakes (45:45)?  1:19:30 | Did you see Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann honouring a deceased fan by wearing his grocery store vest to a game over the weekend? Real Talker Landon submits his Positive Reflection, proudly presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby. SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Today on The Social, should Canadians be concerned about America's rhetoric on Greenland? Then, tensions are high in the U.S. after a Minneapolis woman was shot and killed by an ICE agent. Is this a political turning point? Plus, should you tell your partner about past infidelity? Featuring former senior advisor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Supriya Dwivedi.

As dictator Nicolás Maduro appears before a New York judge, the international community is debating American military intervention in Venezuela, and what it could mean for other countries including Canada. Former PMO senior advisor Supriya Dwivedi gives us her take (6:00) in our first feature interview of 2026, presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, A PROUD MADE-IN-ALBERTA SOLUTION OFFERING CRYPTO YOUR WAY. FIRST-TIME USERS SAVE 50% WITH THE EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE RYAN50 ON THE ONLINE PORTAL AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 39:00 | Alberta separatist Jeff Rath figures Jespo should be added to the United States' No Fly List. As you can imagine, we've got thoughts.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  51:00 | Tragedy struck an Edmonton family on December 22, when 44-year-old father Prasant Sreekumar died after waiting eight hours for urgent care. Alberta Medical Association president Dr. Brian Wirzba was at the Grey Nuns Hospital that day. He tells us how deadly incidents like this can be avoided in future. AMA: https://www.albertadoctors.org/ 1:16:50 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on Venezuela, ER wait times, and other topics teed up in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:40:00 | Real Talker Jan shouts out the shovelers in her neck of the woods in this edition of Positive Reflections proudly presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Randy Boissonnault just endured "the worst year of (his) life". The embattled former Trudeau cabinet minister and Edmonton-Centre MP makes Real Talk his first stop on a redemption tour (3:15) following a court ruling in his favour in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. CHECK OUT THEIR SEASONAL LIMITED RELEASES - GINGERBREAD COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR and MINT CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR: https://hansendistillery.com/ 34:00 | Santa Claus joins us from the Fairmont Banff Springs, and gives Real Talk an exclusive sneak peek into what the highest-profile politicians can expect under the tree this year... 43:00 | Jespo and Supriya Dwivedi discuss Randy Boissonnault's potential return to politics, year-end interviews from PM Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre, and whether or not Australia's new law re: kids and social media would be a good fit in Canada.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:18:00 | Jespo and Johnny get into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:31:30 | We appreciate you, Real Talkers! Ryan shares some mind-blowing stats from Spotify Wrapped in a year-end edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

At least 15 people are dead and dozens more injured after gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Australia's famed Bondi Beach. We talk to Supriya Dwivedi (3:00) about a rise in anti-Semitism, perceived connections to the Israel-Hamas war, and tightened gun laws in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, A PROUD MADE-IN-ALBERTA SOLUTION OFFERING CRYPTO YOUR WAY. FIRST-TIME USERS SAVE 50% WITH THE EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE RYAN50 ON THE ONLINE PORTAL AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 24:30 | Did you catch Pierre Poilievre's interview with Rosie Barton on CBC? Could his "blame Carney" approach to MP floor crossings actually work?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  45:45 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the top stories, including a look at our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:15:00 | Real Talker Helene has a correction on NDP membership in response to our December 11 episode with Naheed Nenshi. 1:31:00 | Real Talker Eileen tells us what she values most about the Real Talk community in a very personal edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

PM Mark Carney says he "wouldn't describe (Canada's) foreign policy as feminist foreign policy"...but what does that actually mean? Is it a move in the right direction, or not so much?  3:20 | Supriya Dwivedi and Sharan Kaur debate the tone (and make-up) of PM Mark Carney's inner circle in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk @ryanjespersen   MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 57:30 | Is your employer ordering you back to the office? Supriya and Jespo talk pros and cons, including what Real Talkers are reporting in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRCITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:14:30 | Ryan's wife's parents had a hilarious thing happen at their 50th anniversary celebration this weekend. Hilarious for Oilers fans, anyway. We hear the story (and Johnny's got a bold prediction for the rest of the NHL season)... 1:25:10 | Can. you beat Real Talker Lori's Spotify Wrapped? We shout out the top 0.5%'er in Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. SHARE YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We've seen this play before. The right-wing flank of a Conservative party, feeling underrepresented and dissatisfied, breaks away from the "mainstream" movement to form its own entity. Will that be the case with separatist members of Alberta's United Conservative Party?  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY'S NORTHERN EYES SEVEN YEAR WHISKY. ORDER YOUR LIMITED EDITION BOTTLE TODAY: https://hansendistillery.com/ 2:45 | On the heels of the party's AGM in Edmonton, UCP founding president Erika Barootes joins Ryan and Supriya Dwivedi to talk about Premier Danielle Smith getting booed over her pipeline deal with PM Mark Carney and other notable moments through the weekend. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 38:00 | Supriya and Ryan dig into the details of the pipeline MOU and discuss Steven Guilbeault's abrupt resignation from PM Carneys' Cabinet. Plus, did Pierre Poilievre start to turn the tide on public opinion by poking fun of himself at the Press Gallery dinner in Ottawa?  1:15:00 | Jespo and Johnny jump into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your takes on the UCP AGM, the future of the Alberta separatism movement, and Poilievre's Press Gallery Dinner speech.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk 2:02:00 | Remember that Real Talk contest a few years ago where we gave away a full solar system installation courtesy of Kuby Renewable Energy? Our friends at Kuby just released a wonderful feature on the winning organization - the Winnifred Stewart Society - perfect for this week's Positive Reflection.  SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talk turns five! Our pal Supriya Dwivedi makes the trip from Toronto to hang out in our Edmonton studio for this special episode presented by our friends at RapidEx Financial. In our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, Supriya and Ryan get into drama at Real Talk's Fifth Birthday Bash, Mark Carney and Danielle Smith's pipeline deal, the PM's dismissive comments about trade talks with Donald Trump, Canada abandoning "feminist foreign policy," and right-wing podcasters jumping ship from SS Trump.  Ryan wraps the episode with a Positive Reflection on Real Talk's fifth anniversary. Positive Reflections is presented weekly by our friends at Solar by Kuby. SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

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

In this 1797th episode of Toronto Mike'd, Mike Stafford and Supriya Dwivedi are reunited. Toronto Mike'd is proudly brought to you by Great Lakes Brewery, Palma Pasta, Ridley Funeral Home, Nick Ainis, Blue Sky Agency, Kindling, RetroFestive.ca and RecycleMyElectronics.ca. If you would like to support the show, we do have partner opportunities available. Please email Toronto Mike at mike@torontomike.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With the consumer carbon tax gone and the EV mandate already paused, where will Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives hammer PM Mark Carney's Liberals as Parliament resumes? Supriya Dwivedi's got her eye on the top political storylines (2:00). Plus, we review new developments in the Charlie Kirk murder investigation, and discuss how the conservative organizer's assassination is influencing political discourse on both sides of the border. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:02:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Rachel Gilmore/Andrew Scheer dust-up and review Morgan Wallen's back-to-back Commonwealth Stadium shows.  The episode wraps with a fantastic message from Real Talker Joshua in Newfoundland about how Alberta changed his life. Positive Reflections is presented weekly on Real Talk by our friends at Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk @ryanjespersen   FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We're thrilled to welcome Supriya Dwivedi back to our regular rotation, starting with this episode (2:30), where the former senior advisor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau takes on Alberta's school library book ban, PM Mark Carney's negotiations with President Donald Trump, California Governor Gavin Newsom's Trumpian social media strategy, and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's "Stand on Guard" proposal to address violent crime in Canada.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  57:00 | Jespo and Johnny catch up after the long weekend, and discuss an email from Real Talker Jeff, who doesn't think they should take any days off.  1:34:00 | Real Talker Lynda talks "solidarity" in a Labour Day edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/solar FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Supriya Dwivedi says PM Mark Carney made a "rookie mistake" on India, and lays out her argument (36:00) along with her thoughts on Carney's "nation-building" Bill C-5 in this episode. But first, we follow up on the Alberta library book controversy (including public survey results) with Education Minister Dimitrios Nicolaides (2:45) and Laura Winton of the Library Association of Alberta (14:30).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  31:15 | THANK YOU, REAL TALKERS! Our fourth-annual Real Talk Golf Classic raised SIXTY-ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS for the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship! Jespo shares memories and photos (by the incredible Karly Watson at kliquethis).  FOLLOW KARLY on IG: https://www.instagram.com/karlywatson 1:04:45 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the library book story, and hear from Real Talkers in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates

"The True North is indeed strong and free." Delivering his first Throne Speech in Canada, King Charles reiterates Canada's sovereignty in a dramatically changing world. It's also the first Throne Speech for PM Mark Carney, who won the election a month ago with a promise to kickstart the economy. What does it all mean for investors, entrepreneurs, and everyday Canadians?  2:30 | Supriya Dwivedi digs into the throne speech, Canada's relationship with the Monarchy, Pierre Poilievre's upcoming byelection in Alberta, and viral video of PM Mark Carney "dismissing" Mélanie Joly.  51:40 | The Maligne Lake Boat Cruise is now open! There's no better way to see one of Canada's most iconic attractions - Spirit Island. Ryan shares his family's personal experience in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  BOOK YOUR BOAT CRUISE: https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/maligne-lake-cruise/ 54:10 | Doing business on the prairies? Shauna Feth has her Eye on Alberta Business, as we take a closer look at the throne speech, Premier Danielle Smith's cabinet shuffle, and Ottawa's plan to knock over inter-provincial trade barriers.  TAKE THE ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY: https://research.albertaperspectives.ca/jfe/form/SV_1Ceh0sP5z3sYyKq ALBERTA BUSINESS AWARDS of DISTINCTION: https://www.abchamber.ca/event/alberta-business-awards-of-distinction-2025/ 1:21:10 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after a decisive Oilers win in Game Four of the Western Conference Final, including tough news about Oilers star Zach Hyman.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

In this 1696th episode of Toronto Mike'd, Mike chats with Supriya Dwivedi about why she chose law school over medical school, how she ended up co-hosting the morning show on AM 640 with Matt Gurney and then Mike Stafford, why she quit, what she was doing for Justin Trudeau and more. Toronto Mike'd is proudly brought to you by Great Lakes Brewery, Palma Pasta, Ridley Funeral Home, Toronto Maple Leafs Baseball, Yes We Are Open, Nick Ainis and RecycleMyElectronics.ca. If you would like to support the show, we do have partner opportunities available. Please email Toronto Mike at mike@torontomike.com

Canadians head to the polls in an election that could change the country by redefining its relationship with the United States. The leading candidate, Prime Minister Mark Carney, has already faced off with US President Donald Trump over tariffs, while Conservative Party candidate Pierre Poilievre has drawn comparisons with the US leader. So, who will Canadians choose? In this episode: Supriya Dwivedi, Former senior adviser to Prime Minister Trudeau Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Sonia Bhagat, Ashish Malhotra, and Chloe K Li, with Amy Walters, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Kingwell Ma, Mariana Navarette, and me, Natasha Del Toro. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Ashish Malhotra, Khaled Soltan, Amy Walters, and Noor Wazwaz. Our editorial interns are Remas Alhawari, Mariana Navarrete, Kisaa Zehra, and Kingwell Ma. I’m your host, Natasha Del Toro. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Aya Elmileik is lead of audience engagement. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is the Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. We’ll be back tomorrow. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube