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Prime Minister Mark Carney's government is facing criticism over its emissions reduction plan, after pausing Canada's EV mandate and appearing to waffle on meeting its obligation to the Paris agreement by 2030. Have the Carney Liberals gone soft on their climate commitment?  2:30 | Caroline Brouillette, executive director of Climate Action Network Canada, says Canada's climate commitment is a matter of sovereignty. She lays out what her group's hoping to see from the feds in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  READ MORE: https://climateactionnetwork.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 32:15 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on "fun runs," Carney pausing Canada's EV mandate (40:30), and new polling on Carney vs. Poilievre (44:00). We share a big announcement (48:00) before getting to Real Talker "Lucy's Mom" on our Aaron Paquette interview, Real Talker Amanda's take on party-affiliated vs. independent candidates for council (1:18:00), and Real Talker Rob's feedback from southern Ontario (1:28:30).  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  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.

Veteran news anchor Lynda Steele set off a firestorm when she called out Alberta conservatives in our September 4 episode. We lead with the loudest responses (3:10), before turning our attention to a wide-open mayoral race in Calgary. Later in the episode, crack a cold one with Jespo's basketball teammates who bring insights on craft beer, inter-provincial trade, and vibrant communities. WATCH LYNDA on REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/090425Lynda 15:00 | Jeremy Klaszus, founder and editor of The Sprawl, identifies Cowtown's number one election issue, and weighs in on the introduction of municipal political parties in Alberta. Real Talk's feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  READ THE SPRAWL: https://www.sprawlcalgary.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 36:00 | Prepare to be entertained! Three of Jespo's beer league basketball teammates - Andrew Ironmonger, Adam Corsaut, and Ryan Huska - talk craft beer, inter-provincial trade, and half-billion dollar community investments.  ALBERTA BEER GUIDE on IG: https://www.instagram.com/abbeerguide/?hl=en DOG ISLAND BREWING: https://www.dogislandbrewing.com/ ANALOG BREWING: https://analogbrewing.ca/ 1:42:15 | Rural Resident Ryan has a hot take on dealing with rural crime, (Urban) Robert says "woke" city people don't deserve the heat, Wendy calls Danielle Smith to the carpet, and Matthew wants Jespo to be better on the "Blatchford boondoggle". It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  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.

Premier Danielle Smith's UCP government presses pause on a Ministerial Order targeting school library books, as Edmonton Public Schools pull 200 titles from shelves, including works by Margaret Atwood, Maya Angelou, and Ayn Rand. Smith calls the move "vicious compliance," promising new, more specific rules to come. Is this anything but a losing battle for the UCP?  7:30 | Political scientist Dr. Duane Bratt assesses the UCP's pivot, and potential longer-term impact on the government's popularity.  36:15 | Jespo's gaggle of "nerds and geeks" made Jasper the number one stop on their annual hockey pool getaway. Check out the highlights (including a must-visit sandwich stop) in this edition of #MyJasper Memories proudly presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR NEXT JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ 42:15 | Pundit Rob Breakenridge tells us why he thinks the UCP's book ban is "disastrous". Stick around for Rob's take on Pierre Poilievre's "Stand on Guard" proposal and Alberta's ballooning spending.  CHECK OUT ROB'S WORK: https://robbreakenridge.substack.com/ 1:26:00 | Real Talker Marie's sick and tired of city slickers ripping on rural Albertans.  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.

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.

Calgary's ten years ahead of Edmonton when it comes to economic development. Can Alberta's capital city catch up? What happens if it doesn't? Ahead of municipal elections on October 20, we check in with the City of Calgary's Thom Mahler, Edmonton Downtown Business Association's Puneeta McBryan, and Heather Thomson from the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce (1:00).  CHECK OUT THE EDMONTON CHAMBER'S MUNICIPAL ACTION PLAN: https://www.edmontonchamber.com/municipal-action-plan-2025/ 1:05:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, including Jespo's story of a nightmare real estate investment 20 years ago.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:32:43 | Jespo shares details of his family's recent Jasper getaway and the upcoming Jasper Folk Music Festival in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  JASPER FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL: https://www.jasperfolkmusicfestival.ca/ BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 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.

Density and infill might be the most divisive issue in Canada's major urban centres right now...or at least it feels that way. After a heated exchange during our August 22 Group Chat Round Table, we check in with Athabasca University political scientist Dr. Alex Rivard, who lays out what national polling actually tells us about where Canadians stand on the issue (17:30).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  47:30 | As the Prime Minister lowers his elbows by dropping reciprocal tariffs aimed at Americans, do Doug Ford, Mark Carney, and progressives across Canada owe Alberta Premier Danielle Smith an apology? Her supporters sure think so. Dr. Rivard tells us what he thinks before analyzing a new report on Canadian relations with China (57:45).  1:34:30 | Real Talker Janine tells us why she's so grateful for that August 18 by-election in Battle River--Crowfoot that saw Pierre Poilievre secure his seat in the House of Commons. Positive Reflections is presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/solar 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.

  If you are a high school student, college student, medical student or medical resident who has an interest in sports medicine, then this podcast episode is for you. It can be confusing and a little daunting investigating what it takes to become a sports medicine physician. In this episode, we will discuss resources and what to think about when starting on the path of sports medicine as a career and how to help choose a fellowship program that meets your goals.    Connect with The Host! Subscribe to This Podcast Now!     The ultimate success for every podcaster – is FEEDBACK! Be sure to take just a few minutes to tell the hosts of this podcast what YOU think over at Apple Podcasts! It takes only a few minutes but helps the hosts of this program pave the way to future greatness! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to check out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts via The Podcaster Matrix!     Housekeeping -- Get the whole story about Dr. Mark and his launch into this program, by listing to his "101" episode that'll get you educated, caught up and in tune with the Doctor that's in the podcast house! Listen Now! -- Interested in being a Guest on The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast? Connect with Mark today!   Links from this Episode: -- Dr. Mark Halstead: On the Web -- On X Dr. Steven Cuff https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/find-a-doctor/profiles/steven-c-cuff Dr. Sarah Pierotti https://www.advocatehealth.com/doctors/sarah-a-pierotti-1770746802?address_id=60581 American Academy of Pediatrics Fellowship Information https://www.aap.org/en/community/aap-councils/council-on-sports-medicine-and-fitness/applying-for-fellowships/?srsltid=AfmBOooy1QPpms9EOiLsu-Z1Qq5dvdGkkOHCYIz_s9YBIi_4Fwh6Y8YL AMSSM Fellowship Information https://www.amssm.org/Fellowships.php Calls to the Audience Inside this Episode: -- Be sure to interact with the host, send detailed feedback via our customized form and connect via ALL of our social media platforms! Do that over here now! -- Interested in being a guest inside The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast with Dr. Mark? Tell us now! -- Ready to share your business, organization or efforts message with Dr. Mark's focused audience? Let's have a chat! -- Do you have feedback you'd like to share with Dr. Mark from this episode? Share YOUR perspective!   Be an Advertiser/Sponsor for This Program!   Tell Us What You Think! Feedback is the cornerstone and engine of all great podcast. Be sure to chime in with your thoughts, perspective sand more.  Share your insight and experiences with Dr. Mark by clicking here!   The Host of this Program: Mark Halstead:  Dr. Mark Halstead received his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin Medical School. He stayed at the University of Wisconsin for his pediatric residency, followed by a year as the chief resident. Following residency, he completed a pediatric and adult sports medicine fellowship at Vanderbilt University. He has been an elected member to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness and the Board of Directors of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM). He has served as a team physician or medical consultant to numerous high schools, Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Washington University, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Athletica, and St. Louis Rams. He serves and has served on many local, regional and national committees as an advisor for sports medicine and concussions. Dr. Halstead is a national recognized expert in sport-related concussions and pediatric sports medicine. — Dr. Mark Halstead on Facebook — Dr. Mark Halstead on LinkedIn — Dr.

What would life in Alberta look like if the province made good on threats to leave Canada? What would Alberta separation mean for industry, trade, real estate, social programs, treaties with First Nations, and a million other things?  6:00 | Jeff Rath of the Alberta Prosperity Project lays out his group's vision for a sovereign Alberta.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:15:20 | You've still got time to enjoy Jasper this summer! Jespo shares a few of his favourite Jasper activities in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  PLAN YOUR JASPER TRIP: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:20:20 | Real Talkers have a lot to say about the interview with Jeff Rath. Jespo and Johnny dig into 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.

Mark Carney's taking punches from political opponents, who say the Prime Minister hasn't delivered on his promise to "deal with" Donald Trump. Max Fawcett, lead columnist at Canada's National Observer, says it's too early to say whether or not Carney's plan has failed. But first, as Trump and Vladimir Putin sit down in Alaska, we ask Max what's at stake for the world (including Canada). We get into Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's tweet about Canadian energy shut out in Europe, and MP Michelle Rempel Garner poking Carney about increased tariffs despite his "elbows up" campaign. Plus, believe it or not...Max agrees with cranky columnist Lorne Gunter about Edmonton's "woke" city council, and gives us his assessment of the mayoral and council races in Calgary and Edmonton. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com READ MAX'S COLUMN: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/08/13/opinion/canada-trade-war-mark-carney MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ We wrap with another fiery edition of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. Real Talkers Jake, Andrew, and Bruce have lots to say about Jespo's vaping interview with Dr. Mark Tyndall. Tarra's demanding fairness for folks with disabilities. Neil calls Jespo out (and he's absolutely correct), and Kinnerit writes in from Israel after our Gaza interview with Sharan Kaur. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! 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.

Did you know some of the world's best gin and whisky is distilled just outside Edmonton? Did you know Alberta boasts some of the best wine selection on the planet? In this special episode of Real Talk, we connect with experts and entrepreneurs in wine, spirits, and "ready to drink" cocktails and mocktails to better understand what it takes to make it in the booze business.  1:00 | Anohka Distillery's Gurpreet Ranu, Vino al Vino's Joe Gurba, and Clink Beverage Co's Karli Remeika talk about the process behind their favourite products, trade barriers standing in the way of growing their distribution, and innovation in the beverage space. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com ANOHKA: https://www.anohka.ca/ VINO AL VINO: https://www.vinoalvino.ca/ CLINK BEVERAGE CO: https://www.clinkbeverageco.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 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.

Two of the most powerful people on Planet Earth will meet one-on-one, as Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin convene in Alaska. With so much at stake, including the future of Ukraine, can either President be trusted? We ask Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and Senator Charles Adler (11:30) where his head's at ahead of the summit in Anchorage.  1:00 | But first...is Alberta headed for an early election? Jespo chimes in on a trending Alberta political rumour.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ HELP SAVE the HORSES: https://horseshit.ca/ 43:40 | Real Talkers Craig and Robyn share (incredible) photos from their recent Jasper trip, where they completed the Skyline Trail in an impressive nine hours. You can experience the same thing, with as much time as you need, with an experienced guide! We have all the details in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  CANADIAN SKYLINE ADVENTURES: https://www.canadianskylineadventures.com/skyline-trail TOURISM JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 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.

You've probably seen those big, flavoured vape clouds rising from commuters at the bus stop and kids outside the mall. Cigarette smoking is down across the board, but more and more people are vaping. Critics say vapes are a gateway to addiction, while others point to their value as a smoking cessation tool. What does the evidence say?  2:30 | Dr. Mark Tyndall, firner Director of the BC Centre for Disease Control and author of Vaping: Behind the Smoke and Fears explains how he became an "accidental advocate" for vaping. We cover nicotine vs. cannabis vapes, "popcorn lung," nicotine lip pouches, and more. MORE from DR. TYNDALL: https://drmarktyndallauthor.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  38:00 | Jespo and Johnny give us their personal takes on vapes and other vices, and get into the 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.

A team of Albertans is on a mission to collect 300,000 signatures and trigger a referendum supporting Alberta's future in Canada. We talk to former Premier Ed Stelmach (1:00) and Forever Canadian founder Thomas Lukaszuk about the driving forces behind the petition and the Alberta (and Canada) of the future in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOREVER CANADIAN INITIATIVE: https://www.forever-canadian.ca/ PICK OUT YOUR NEW RIDE: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:01:30 | Real Talkers have their say on Alberta separation in the Live Chat powered by Park Power.  EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:46:30 | Kyle gets graphic (like, "slobbery, blow job, circle jerk" graphic) in his assessment of our Gaza coverage, Michael's sick of personal questions, Patrick stands up for Quebec, Coreen calls out Premier Danielle Smith's library book policy, and Bob says a new Jasper documentary is an "exploitative hack job". It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates. The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

More than 60,000 Palestinians are dead. Hundreds and hundreds of Israeli families are grieving the loss and abduction of their loved ones from Hamas' horrific October 7 attack. Civilians on both sides are paying the highest price. But this war is not new. It's another chapter in a generational tragedy. How do we even begin to talk about it?  2:30 | In our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, Dr. Jeffrey Wilkinson and Raja Khouri take us into their book The Wall Between: What Jews and Palestinians Don't Want to Know About Each Other.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  48:00 | Ryan shares an exciting update about the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship, and introduces us to one of Real Talk's youngest audience members Rhett. 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 time for the finale of our review of The Pit, a medical drama on HBO Max starring Noah Wyle. We've been going through the first season of this incredible show and how it's really captured a lot of the issues going on in medicine these days. This episode of The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast wcovers The Pit episodes 11 through 15 - listen in and tell us what YOU think of The Pitt on HBOMax!    Connect with The Host! Subscribe to This Podcast Now!     The ultimate success for every podcaster – is FEEDBACK! Be sure to take just a few minutes to tell the hosts of this podcast what YOU think over at Apple Podcasts! It takes only a few minutes but helps the hosts of this program pave the way to future greatness! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to check out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts via The Podcaster Matrix!     Housekeeping -- Get the whole story about Dr. Mark and his launch into this program, by listing to his "101" episode that'll get you educated, caught up and in tune with the Doctor that's in the podcast house! Listen Now! -- Interested in being a Guest on The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast? Connect with Mark today!   Links from this Episode: -- Dr. Mark Halstead: On the Web -- On X    Calls to the Audience Inside this Episode: -- Be sure to interact with the host, send detailed feedback via our customized form and connect via ALL of our social media platforms! Do that over here now! -- Interested in being a guest inside The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast with Dr. Mark? Tell us now! -- Ready to share your business, organization or efforts message with Dr. Mark's focused audience? Let's have a chat! -- Do you have feedback you'd like to share with Dr. Mark from this episode? Share YOUR perspective!   Be an Advertiser/Sponsor for This Program!   Tell Us What You Think! Feedback is the cornerstone and engine of all great podcast. Be sure to chime in with your thoughts, perspective sand more.  Share your insight and experiences with Dr. Mark by clicking here!   The Host of this Program: Mark Halstead:  Dr. Mark Halstead received his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin Medical School. He stayed at the University of Wisconsin for his pediatric residency, followed by a year as the chief resident. Following residency, he completed a pediatric and adult sports medicine fellowship at Vanderbilt University. He has been an elected member to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness and the Board of Directors of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM). He has served as a team physician or medical consultant to numerous high schools, Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Washington University, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Athletica, and St. Louis Rams. He serves and has served on many local, regional and national committees as an advisor for sports medicine and concussions. Dr. Halstead is a national recognized expert in sport-related concussions and pediatric sports medicine. — Dr. Mark Halstead on Facebook — Dr. Mark Halstead on LinkedIn — Dr. Mark Halstead on X — Learn Why The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast Exists...   The Co-Host of this Program: Nicole Halstead:  Nicole Halstead received her bachelors degree in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She worked in the Emergency Department, Pediatric ICU, and Adult ICU, and the Burn Unit while at the University of Wisconsin, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital and Barnes-Jewish Hospital. She currently works at a substitute school nurse in the Francis Howell School District.  

Roy Allan Sobotiak spent 35 years in prison for a murder he's always insisted he did not commit. It's the longest sentence served by a victim of wrongful conviction in Canadian history. How many other innocent people are currently behind bars? Has the judicial system evolved to prevent these types of situations? Is Susan Kaminsky's killer still at large?  1:30 | Innocence Canada's Stéphanie Nowak and Pamela Zbarsky take us into Mr. Sobotiak's case, and explain how their advocacy led to his release in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  INNOCENCE CANADA: https://www.innocencecanada.com/ CHECK OUT MERCEDES-BENZ EDMONTON WEST: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 36:40 | Beneath Donald Trump's bluster, the United States is losing the trade war. Political economist Dr. John Rapley makes the argument, and gives an informed take on the evolution of global commerce. READ RAPLEY'S PIECE in THE GLOBE & MAIL: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/commentary/article-beneath-the-bluster-the-us-is-losing-the-trade-war/ 59:00 | This year's wildflowers in Jasper aren't just beautiful...they're symbolic. We celebrate nature's healing power in this edition of MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. FIND WILDFLOWERS in JASPER NATIONAL PARK: https://www.jasper.travel/blog/where-to-find-wildflowers-jasper-national-park/ Grab a coffee at Otto's Cache before you head out: https://www.jasper.travel/dining/ottos-cache/ 1:04:00 | Jespo and Johnny join forces with the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power to discuss President Trump's plan for a $200M ballroom, shingles and gout (!), and Mr. Big sting operations.  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.

Nothing but hot button issues in this episode, as we check in with Freedom Convoy lawyer Eva Chipiuk (4:00) after she was "debanked" by RBC, and get into the nitty gritty of Alberta's controversial new school library book policy.  35:30 | Provincial Education Minister Dimitrios Nicolaides and Library Association of Alberta past president Laura Winton debate Alberta's so-called "book ban."  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:09:40 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the library book story and highlight comments in the Real Talk 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 Calgary Stampede has long been a must-attend event for industry and political movers and shakers, but the vibe's been different this year...in a good way. Longtime Alberta MLA and former Minister Leela Aheer gives us a first-hand report (3:00) on the what and why, in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  27:00 | Did Alberta and Ontario just "betray" the rest of the country with their agreement to explore new energy expansion opportunities? Energi Media's Markham Hislop says yes. He explains why.  SUBSCRIBE to ENERGI MEDIA on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@EnergiMedia CHECK OUT JESPO on MARKHAM'S SHOW: https://youtu.be/Ujv1LHFKBLY?si=bmXJXQQSV33wmo8O 49:30 | Friend of the show Wyatt Sharpe checks in from Tampa, FL in between interviews on his show with an update on Canada/U.S. negotiations.  CHECK OUT WYATT'S SHOW: https://www.thenewsforum.ca/series/forumfocus 1:03:00 | Jespo and Johnny get into the top news headlines, including US lawmakers calling out Canada for wildfire smoke exports, and the devastating Texas floods. Real Talkers respond to our interview with Bonnie Critchley (1:39:00), the independent candidate looking to take down Pierre Poilievre in Battle River-Crowfoot. We dig into a scathing indictment of Edmonton mayoral candidate Tim Cartmell's handling of the zoning controversy (1:49:00).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  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.

Who the heck is Bonnie Critchley? In this episode, you'll meet the military trailblazer (2:00) who's aiming to take down Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in the Battle River-Crowfoot byelection on August 18. She may not be the odds-on favourite, but Critchley lays out a few reasons why voters in one of Canada's safest Conservative ridings should vote against their party.  CONNECT WITH BONNIE'S CAMPAIGN: https://www.bonniecritchleyindependent.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  39:00 | Jeff Davison's taking another shot. The former Calgary councillor tells us why he's running for Mayor again (after losing in 2021), and why he thinks "Calgary is in trouble".  CONNECT WITH JEFF'S CAMPAIGN: https://www.jeffdavisonyyc.com/ 1:03:00 | Don't let a little drizzle dampen your spirits next time you're in Jasper! We've got a list of our favourite rainy day activities for this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  BOOK YOUR JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:16:00 | Pierre Poilievre's gripping his saddle the wrong way. Mark Carney can't flip a pancake. Is any politician safe at the Calgary Stampede? Jespo and Johnny chat about a (gentle) attack on Twitter, and debate the pros and cons of Tim Cartmell's absence from a critical Edmonton Council vote.  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.

Will Elon Musk actually move the US away from a two-party system with his America Party (26:30)? Is the Electric Vehicle market losing momentum (32:30)? Is Pierre Poilievre trending even further in the wrong direction (45:40)? We talk to National Observer lead columnist Max Fawcett about the stories leading the headlines.  6:40 | But first...did you see the story about four men charged with terrorism offences in Quebec? Is there a bigger problem percolating in the Canadian Forces?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  51:30 | By all reports, it's been a successful Calgary Stampede for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. What can we read into that re: the province working with Mark Carney's federal Liberal government? And what's most significant about Ottawa's $21.5M investment in carbon capture (1:07:30)? Max, former editor of Alberta Oil magazine, shares his thoughts.  1:13:00 | Jespo and Johnny debate the future of EVs, with a ton of takes from the Real Talk 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.

Canada's committed to increasing its military investment to 5% of GDP. That won't come without some tough decisions (that will undoubtedly affect everyday Canadians). Economist Todd Hirsch lays it out (8:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  READ TODD'S OP/ED: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/commentary/article-to-up-defence-spending-canada-must-cut-deeper-tax-harder-and-borrow/ BOOK TODD: https://toddhirsch.com/ MERCEDES-BENZ EDMONTON WEST: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 48:00 | "F*ck you, Jo-Anne Wright!" Everybody's talking about Edmonton councillor Sarah Hamilton's outburst at City Hall. Jespo shares some insights from Hamilton herself, and we look to our Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:11:00 | Real Talker Gillian shares her thoughts on transgender athletes competing in women's sport, prompted by the Lia Thomas story.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:20:00 | Real Talker Pilot One shares their Positive Reflection: Ten Things that are Important in Life. Positive Reflections is presented weekly on Real Talk 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.

Ousted (former) UCP MLAs Peter Guthrie and Scott Sinclair are reviving the PC Party of Alberta, saying they'll restore "balance and normalcy" to politics in the province. In a Real Talk exclusive, we find out why they're doing it, and how they intend to dethrone Danielle Smith's UCP (2:30).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  May 22 LUKASZUK INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/052225CanadaForever 1:07:00 | Rest in Peace, Jodi Broadhead. Ryan remembers a friend of the show who died under tragic circumstances on June 21.  1:10:40 | The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge's world-class golf course is officially open, celebrating 100 years! Plus, the (beautiful) Ursidae Lair Scotch tasting lounge has specials through the summer. We've got details in MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK JPL GOLF: https://www.jaspermountaingolf.com/ RESERVE A TABLE at URSIDAE LAIR: https://ursidaelair.com/ 1:15:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on PC 2.0, take a look at the University of Pennsylvania/Lia Thomas story (1:26:30), Paramount's settlement with Donald Trump (1:28:55), and the Diddy verdict (1:31:00).  1:50:50 | We hope you had a fantastic Canada Day. Jespo highlights a fireworks capture on one of his favourite Instagram accounts for Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. FOLLOW SAMEER on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sameer.pictures/ 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.

Elected Ontario school board councillor Catherine Kronas has been suspended for speaking out against land acknowledgements. She's mounting a legal challenge - does she have a case? We put that story (2:00) in front of our Real Talk Round Table panelists right out of the gates as we recognize National Indigenous History Month. Stick around to hear how Matricia Bauer (Warrior Women),  Keith Diakiw (Talking Rock Tours), and Kendra Dudzic (The Woods Experience) are preserving and amplifying Indigenous history through tourism.  WARRIOR WOMEN: https://warriorwomen.ca/ TALKING ROCK TOURS: https://www.talkingrocktours.com/ THE WOODS EXPERIENCE: https://atthewoods.ca/ 50:00 | Real Talkers are coming at the residential infill issue from a ton of different directions. Ryan reads a bunch of feedback from our email inbox (Kaila and Kyle), YouTube episode, and Instagram Reel (@RealTalkRJ). Stick around to hear why Jespo spoke to Edmonton city councillors at a public hearing on the Capital City Community Revitalization Levy (CRL).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:29:00 | Real Talkers Rosie and Cactus Sheriff are fired up over the UCP's library book distraction, while Jennifer and AJ trade barbs after our Don Iveson interview. David, Eddie the Valiant, and Thera-P share their hot takes on residential infill. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

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

UGGGGGHHHHHHH. If you're looking to commiserate with fellow Oilers fans, Jespo and Johnny have you covered (2:22) after a devastating loss in Game Six of the Stanley Cup Final.  30:10 | All things considered, what can we take away from the G7? Is the US really going to war with Iran? Political strategist and commentator Sharan Kaur brings her informed insights. READ MORE FROM SHARAN on the G7: https://thehub.ca/2025/06/17/need-to-know-nothing-can-break-israels-resolve/ FOLLOW HER ON X: https://x.com/msSharanKaur 1:10:00 | Real Talkers have their say re: our June 17 interview with Alberta Teachers' president Jason Schilling.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:37:30 | When's an appropriate time to ask your boss for a raise? We get into the differences between Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z.  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.

95% of Alberta teachers have voted to strike - but will they? If so, could it happen before the end of this school year? In this episode, we ask Alberta Teachers' Association president Jason Schilling where negotiations are breaking down (3:45), and what it'd take to keep teachers from walking out.  53:30 | Real Talkers have their say via the Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:15:00 | U.S. President Donald Trump leaves the G7 early, missing meetings with the presidents of Ukraine and Mexico. Did Canada get what it was looking for?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:47:15 | Mark our words: the Edmonton Oilers will win Game Six tonight in Florida. Agree or disagree? 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.

After Alberta Premier Danielle Smith runs into rowdy opposition at a recent town hall in southern Alberta, we invite experts Dr. Bill Dohanue and Cornelis Kolijn and activist/musician Corb Lund for an in-depth look at the economics, environmental impact, and politics of coal mining on Alberta's eastern slopes (3:30).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:09:30 | Real Talkers have their say on coal mining on Alberta's eastern slopes. The Real Talk Live Chat is powered by Park Power. Get exclusive discounts on internet, electricity, and natural gas at parkpower.ca/realtalk.  1:22:00 | Jespo and Johnny get into the G7 in Kananaskis including a Chief's message to President Trump on the tarmac in Calgary.  1:41:00 | "Lean in, not out!" Real Talker Sylvia has a Positive Reflection for Oilers fans around the world. Positive Reflections is presented by Solar by Kuby.  BOOK 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.

Nearly 35% of 2SLGBTQI+ business owners report hiding their identity due to fear of discrimination. 25% say they've lost contracts because of who they are. As hundreds of Queer entrepreneurs from around the world gather in Toronto for the  2SLGBTQI+ Global Business Summit, we talk to Sarah Evalina, COO at Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, award-winning storyteller and activist Sarain Fox, and Moe Yassine from the Alberta 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce for a Real Talk Round Table about Pride and business (4:00). CANADA'S 2SLGBTQI+ CHAMBER of COMMERCE: https://cglcc.ca/ ALBERTA 2SLGBTQI+ CHAMBER of COMMERCE: https://ab-lgbt.com/ 50:00 | Jespo and Johnny link up with the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:03:30 | On the heels of a HUGE win in Game Four of the Stanley Cup Final, we find out where Real Talkers are at, and take on a troubling story about goalie Stuart Skinner's family facing death threats. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:23:30 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith was heckled alongside a couple cabinet ministers at a Coal Town Hall. Jespo shares his thoughts on the future of coal mining on the Eastern Slopes.  1:30:45 | "Interested Meow" has a beef with school librarians, Lynne says you don't have to have kids to have an opinion, Karen's calling out Alberta's Education Minister, Alberta Gengar's standing in solidarity with postal workers, Andre in Eastern Canada says build the pipeline, and Jeff says it's Danielle Smith's fault young drivers can't afford cars. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Canada's close to legally locking in supply management rules on egg, dairy, and chicken imports...but is it the right move? We've fiercely protected those sectors for decades, but critics (including some farmers) say it's hurting Canada's international bargaining position. Is it time to kill the sacred cow?  3:45 | Pundit Rob Breakenridge and (Jespo's cousin) dairy farmer Graham Jespersen debate the merits of supply management.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  26:00 | Jespo and Rob get into the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Danielle Smith v. Naheed Nenshi (33:00), Calgary's population explosion and looming mayoral race (41:30).  CHECK OUT ROB'S WORK: https://robbreakenridge.substack.com/ 54:45 | Jespo and Johnny loop in the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power re: vaping, smoking, and your thoughts on supply management. 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.

Alberta welcomes the most powerful leaders on planet earth as the G7 summit touches down in Kananaskis Country. We talk to Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek (3:00) about G7 security and other preparations, and what she's hoping to see emerge from the summit. We talk housing affordability, zoning bylaws, a tumultuous 2024, dissipating (?) tensions with the province, and Gondek's bid for re-election.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  35:30 | Is there any cooler way to explore Jasper's trails than on horseback! We check out Jasper Riding Stables in this episode of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  LEARN MORE: https://www.jasper.travel/experiences/pyramid-stables-trail-rides/ BOOK YOUR JASPER TRAIL RIDE: https://jasperstables.com/ 38:00 | More than a decade after they hung 'em up, Canadian rock band Ten Second Epic is back...for one night only! We welcome lead singer Andrew Usenik and bassist Sandy MacKinnon make the announcement exclusively on Real Talk, and share some wild stories from the glory days.  GET YOUR TICKETS: https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/ten-second-epic-reunion-union-hall-tickets/13784494?pl=UnionHall 1:18:50 | Did you see the impassioned demonstrator calling out National Guard members in California?  1:30:30 | Premier Danielle Smith's being roasted for saying Alberta has the "lowest living standards in the world" during an interview with Vassy Kapelos. 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/ 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.

Critics say the Alberta government is being heavy handed in flagging controversial books found in school libraries. They say teachers and librarians, not politicians and parents, should choose which books are on the shelf. In this episode, we talk to Minister of Education Demetrios Nicolaides (1:03:15) about the UCP's online survey, classroom funding, and a strike that seems more and more likely to happen.  But first...Jespo and Johnny are all amped up after the Edmonton Oilers' big overtime win in Game One of the Stanley Cup Final.  33:45 | The Ranch is looking amazing two weeks out from the Real Talk Golf Classic! Jespo shares a few stories and talks about the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship.  APPLY BEFORE AUGUST 1: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/scholarship 48:45 | Real Talker Jonny isn't happy about our June 3 interview  1:03:15 | We talk to Alberta's Minister of Education Demetrios Nicolaides about the library book controversy and a looming teachers' strike. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  PARTICIPATE IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY SURVEY: https://your.alberta.ca/school-library-materials/surveys/slme 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.

Parents' rights groups are pressuring the Alberta government to pull what they deem to be "pornographic" books from school libraries. The government's putting it to public consultation before introducing new policy ahead of the next school year. Who's best equipped to decide which books are appropriate for which ages, and what literature belongs in libraries? In this episode, we get into it with Laura Winton from the Library Association and Jim Turk from the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University (4:00). 49:30 | Real Talkers have their say in the Live Chat powered by Park Power. "Touring Zebra" shares a theory (1:17:45) about the looming book ban. 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.

What's at stake as Mark Carney meets in person with Canada's premiers for the first time since becoming Prime Minister? What happens if the first ministers' meeting wraps without a deal to advance Canada's role as a "global energy superpower," or progress toward "free trade in Canada," as Carney promised on election night?  Senator Charles Adler gets into it (13:00) with his trademark brand of Canadian common sense. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:00:00 | Would you travel to see the Oilers on the road in Florida, all things considered? Jespo and Johnny tee up the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, and highlight Real Talkers' feedback in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:18:45 | "A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit." Jespo shares a personal story for this edition of 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.

"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.

Andrew Knack wants to be Edmonton's next mayor. The longtime city councillor tells us (2:10) why he entered the race after initially announcing he wouldn't return to City Hall, and how he'll shake off the unflattering reputation the current council has earned. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  53:00 | Jespo and Johnny check in on the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:23:20 | David's demanding an election NOW, Don's "outraged" at Real Talk guest Sharan Kaur, and Michael's dropping bombs on one of Jespo's loudest critics. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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 longtime Conservative cabinet minister is stepping back into the spotlight to save Alberta's place in Canada. Thomas Lukaszuk tells us why he's spearheading a petition to keep Alberta in Canada (5:30), and how he plans on collecting more than 600,000 signatures. The former Alberta deputy premier gives us his take on a Globe and Mail report on Danielle Smith's former chief of staff living in a mansion owned by the sister of Sam Mraiche, the entrepreneur at the centre of the alleged AHS procurement scandal. REBOOT ALBERTA: https://reboootalberta.wordpress.com/ 55:50 | If Canada Post workers go on strike, will you have their backs? Jespo and Johnny take a look at our latest unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  JOIN THE RUN for H20 in SHERWOOD PARK on JUNE 14: https://secured.hope-international.com/ui/sherwoodpark REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Canada's joining the UK and France in threatening Israel with sanctions if aid doesn't start flowing into Gaza. Israel says it's "taken aback" by the ultimatum. Meantime, Prime Minister Mark Carney's changed his mind on a budget - his finance minister will have one ready for fall, he says. What's the right call in these scenarios?  Sharan Kaur, former deputy chief of staff to then-finance minister Bill Morneau, talks about Canada, Israel, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza (3:45), Mark Carney's budget critics (20:00), the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial (31:30), and the world's worst vegetable (46:30).  FOLLOW SHARAN ON X: https://x.com/msSharanKaur 58:30 | If you've never stayed (and eaten) at Pyramid Lake Lodge, now's the perfect time! Ryan highlights one of his favourite spots in Jasper, and a perfect activity for weekend visitors regardless of age or ability. #MyJasper Memories is presented weekly on Real Talk by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  CHECK OUT PYRAMID LAKE LODGE and AALTO: https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/hotels/pyramid-lake-lodge/ TOURISM JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:03:30 | Jespo and Johnny share their predictions for the Oilers/Stars Western Conference Final, and debrief on the Hockey Canada trial (1:16:00).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Canada's ramping up pressure on Israel alongside France and the UK. Mark Carney's new cabinet is sworn in, and the PM's got less than six weeks to fulfill his promise of "free trade in Canada before Canada Day". And, the Toronto Maple Leafs will have to wait (yet) another year for a shot at Lord Stanley's Cup. We catch up on the top stories in Canada with The Hub's editor at large Sean Speer (3:00). THE HUB: https://thehub.ca/2025/05/15/sean-speer-the-maple-leafs-playoff-woes-are-a-microcosm-of-a-bigger-set-of-canadian-problems/ JOIN SEAN & RYAN at the EDMONTON REAL ESTATE FORUM on MAY 27: https://informaconnect.com/edmonton-real-estate-forum/ 31:30 | Jespo and Johnny catch up after the May Long weekend, including the heartbreaking *and* heartwarming story involving Jets' star Mark Scheifele, and the Oilers' date with Dallas.  54:00 | Add another layer to the UCP/AHS story. We take a look at the Globe and Mail's report on Premier Danielle Smith's former chief of staff Marshall Smith living in a home owned by the sister of Sam Mraiche (the guy at the centre of the alleged procurement scandal).  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:19:00 | We're accepting applications for the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship! DETAILS: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/scholarship 1:22:00 | Real Talker Brenda makes our day with a firsthand report of an act of kindness at a dog park. It's a perfect Positive Reflection presented by Solar by Kuby!  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.

2:00 | Is toying with separation talk the biggest political risk Danielle Smith's ever taken? We ask her in an exclusive interview in the Real Talk studio. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  24:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, get into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power, and check our email inbox. SAVE on ELECTRICITY, NATURAL GAS, and INTERNET: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 47:00 | It's Opening Day at Northwest Film Fest! We sit down with directors Darrin Hagen, Scott Portingale, and Lowell Dean - finalists for the Edmonton Film Prize. (If you support Real Talk on Patreon, check your email for details on claiming your free tickets to the movies!) CHECK OUT NWFF: https://www.northwestfest.ca/ 1:27:00 | We get to more of your comments on the Danielle Smith interview (and Alberta separation talk)...oh, and there's a new Pope!  EMAIL THE SHOW ANYTIME: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.

Is everything going to be okay after all? Donald Trump and Mark Carney play nice in their first Oval Office meeting following the Liberals' election victory, giving hope Canada-U.S. tensions will soon ease. In this episode, we present a cross-border conversation on our shared economic future. 9:00 | NAIOP CEO Marc Selvitelli and Eric Schmutz, both Washington, D.C. residents, join Edmonton's Alex Thomson in the Real Talk studio to talk trade, policy, and partnerships.  LEARN MORE ABOUT NAIOP: https://www.naiop.org/ 57:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:07:00 | May 8 marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. Our friends at the Juno Beach Centre tell us about their powerful "He Lived Where You Live" campaign.  SUPPORT THE JUNO BEACH CENTRE: https://www.junobeach.org/ 1:26:45 | We LOVE hearing about the memories you've made in Jasper! Real Talker Chad shares about his family's recent trip, and Jespo has details for rafting enthusiasts, in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  SHARE YOUR JASPER MEMORIES WITH US: talk@ryanjespersen.com BOOK YOUR JASPER RAFTING ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ EMAIL THE SHOW ANYTIME: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.

Stephen Carter doesn't do podcasts to make new friends. That's obvious early in his appearance here, which proves to be one of the most entertaining episodes we've ever released. A veteran campaign strategist, Carter tells us what each party did wrong (and what they should have done instead) leading up to the 2025 federal election.  3:20 | But first...POLITICO's Mickey Djuric and Nick Taylor-Vaisey recap their 2025 election experience, having travelled the country covering the campaigns. Will Pierre Poilievre trigger a by-election in Alberta? Will Mark Carney's cabinet differ greatly from Justin Trudeau's?  READ POLITICO: https://www.politico.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  33:33 | Nobody offers up political commentary quite like longtime strategist and podcast personality Stephen Carter. Not an actual doctor, Carter conducts a Conservative campaign autopsy (38:20), and responds to the Real Talk Rumour Mill report that Edmonton-Griesbach MP-elect Kerry Diotte has offered his seat to Pierre Poilievre.  SUBSCRIBE to THE STRATEGISTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-strategists/id1514440943 1:01:40 | Mother's Day is fast approaching - May 11 - and there's no better place to treat Mom than Jasper National Park! Ryan shares a few special family memories and lays out a perfect Mother's Day weekend itinerary in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  BOOK MOTHER'S DAY in JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:06:00 | "Doctor Carter" continues his campaign autopsies with a look at the Liberals' disappointing performance on the prairies, including Amarjeet Sohi's defeat in Edmonton Southeast (1:10:50). Where does the NDP go from here after a disastrous performance (1:27:30)?  1:35:30 | What on earth is Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi doing (or not doing)? What's with the UCP's Bill 54, making life easier for would-be separatists to trigger a referendum? And what can we expect to see in Edmonton and Calgary's mayoral races (1:52:00)?  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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 real estate bubble that never bursts. Orwellian internet laws. Controversial MAiD policies. Complex identity politics. Tristin Hopper says Canada has become a global cautionary tale. We connect with the author of "Don't Be Canada" in this episode of Real Talk. But first... 3:15 | What prompted the "Brantford Boomer" to bust out the double bird to a camera operator outside a Liberal campaign event? We go to the source of the viral story - Caryma Sa'd.  22:00 | "Don't Be Canada," warns Tristin Hopper in his new book. The National Post columnist tells us why he thinks Canada's doing everything wrong all at once.  CHECK OUT TRISTIN'S BOOK: https://sutherlandhousebooks.com/product/dont-be-canada/ 48:00 | We sit down with iHuman executive director Beryl Bacchus and iHuman youth artists Mahalia Jamerson and Ashra in what one Real Talker in our live chat calls "the most inspiring Real Talk Round Table of the year". JOIN US MAY 7 at CANVAS FOR HOPE: https://ihuman.org/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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 less than a week out from a hugely significant election. The Pope's just passed away. Alleged corruption plagues the Alberta government. The planet is on a road to ruin. But fear not...we've got inspiring takes on (nearly) all of it in this episode of Real Talk!  5:30 | Party All The Time host Vicky Mochama gives us her thoughts on Pope Francis' legacy and the significance of his death. We talk about a new Conservative ad campaign, diaspora voting, foreign policy positions, and key storylines with six days to go 'til Canada votes.  PARTY ALL THE TIME: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/party-all-the-time/id1803891407 24:15 | What prompted former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk to file a conduct complaint with the Law Society aimed at Alberta's justice minister Mickey Amery and lawyer Matthew Lindsay? We ask him. 49:45 | Alberta researchers are advancing nature-based solutions to pressing environmental challenges facing prairie landscapes impacted by industry. Athabasca University's Dr. Srijak Bhatnagar and Lethbridge Polytechnic's Dr. Adriana Morrell explain how their collaboration could transform conservation efforts. READ MORE: https://www.athabascau.ca/news/research-and-innovation/science-and-environment/coalmine-grassland.html? TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.

Everybody eats. But how many of us actually pay attention to what's going on in the Agriculture sector? There's something for everybody in this episode, from the city slickers to farmers and ranchers across Canada. Stick around for the second half of the show, where we take a look at wild swings in the market with massive wealth implications.  6:00 | Shaun Haney, founder of RealAgriculture and host of RealAg Radio on SiriusXM, talks Trump, tariffs, federal election implications, and the future of Ag.  READ SHAUN'S WORK: https://www.realagriculture.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  42:00 | What's the best cereal on planet Earth?  56:00 | Did Donald Trump manipulate the markets to benefit his wealthy friends?  1:10:00 | Does crowd size matter? 1:32:15 | Real Talker Lorne, a retired fire chief, responds to our April 9 episode with Ryan's wife Kari about their dog Monroe's near-death experience on the river. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/040925rescue REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... JOIN US APRIL 12 at the ICCHANGE GALA: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala 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.

This episode is all about the bottom line. With headlines screaming "Market Mayhem," what's the average investor supposed to think, let alone do? Is now a good time to buy? Or is it time to sell before things get worse? And...whatever happened to election campaigns that were supposed to be all about AFFORDABILITY? 4:50 | We check in with Marshall McAlister, president at North Road Investment Counsel, for a steady perspective on the stock market responding to Donald Trump's tariffs.  CHECK OUT NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL: https://www.northroadic.com/ 24:15 | Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper makes a rare campaign appearance in Nisku, just south of Edmonton, endorsing Pierre Poilievre for PM. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith claps back at Mark Carney, saying she "will not shut up". 41:00 | Vicky Mochama takes a mortgage affordability test for everybody to witness, as we check in with the host of Canada's newest must-listen political podcast Party All The Time. Are the big campaigns hitting or missing the mark with housing policy? What's in it for renters?  PARTY ALL THE TIME // EPISODE TWO: https://rtrj.info/040725PATT 1:20:00 | Some Edmonton renters just saw their rents triple overnight. Is rent control a possibility in Alberta? (The government says hell no.) Nurses have a big new deal. Jespo and Johnny take a look at stories making news.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... JOIN US APRIL 12 at the ICCHANGE GALA: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala 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.

Trump's trade war with Canada is about to level up. A popular political podcaster is throwing his hat in the ring this election. Another popular TikTok commentator just got dumped by CTV. We cover all of it (and more) in this episode.  3:40 | It's not an April Fool's joke! The Strategists co-host and Real Talk Editorial Board member Corey Hogan is running for the Liberals in Calgary. He tells us why he made the eleventh hour decision to stick his neck out there. 19:40 | Nick Taylor-Vaisey, POLITICO's Ottawa bureau chief, talks Trump tariffs, Week Two election storylines, and nervous voters in Milton, ON. Real Talk is partnering with POLITICO through Election 2025 - catch their journalists every Wednesday on the show, and read Ryan's View From Alberta every Thursday in their Ottawa Playbook: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/ottawa-playbook 39:30 | We've got a wager! Ryan shares details of an election-related bet between Real Talker Michael and Group Chat Round Table panelist Jarrett Campbell. 47:50 | Spring has sprung in Jasper National Park! We've got details of the wildly-popular Taste of Spring festival (including the BURGER SMACKDOWN and The Beast Whisky Weekend) in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  PLAN YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/taste-of-spring/ 59:50 | Overwhelmed by the "troll" response, CTV has cancelled Rachel Gilmore's weekly election fact check segment. We play a bit of the recorded phone call where Rachel learned the news, and explore how political pressure regularly influences mainstream media in Canada.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:07:35 | We LOVE this email from Real Talker AJ, who found serious value in our March 21 segment on Neurodiversity in the Workplace.  CHECK OUT AU's COURSE: https://powered.athabascau.ca/product?catalog=Neurodiversity-in-the-Workplace 1:12:30 | U.S. Senators - Republicans and Democrats alike - are calling on the White House to abandon plans to exacerbate the trade war with Canada. We hear from a few of them.  1:27:00 | Our brand new Real Talk Community Chat is live on Discord! Jespo and Johnny have details on this perk, exclusive to our Real Deal and Real VIP YouTube channel members and our Real Talk Patrons.  RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen PAY LESS FOR INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... JOIN US APRIL 12 at the ICCHANGE GALA: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch 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.

Can Pierre Poilievre turn the Conservative campaign around in time? Are Mark Carney's Liberals peaking too soon? What does Donald Trump REALLY want?  2:30 | Our Group Chat Round Table is back together, as Katherine O'Neill, Jenny Adams, Harman Kandola, and Jarrett Campbell give us their take on the top election stories across the country. Will Amarjeet Sohi win Edmonton Southeast? What will unfold in Edmonton Centre? And is Stephen Mandel really making a return to municipal politics?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:15:00 | KO, Harman, Jarrett and Ryan share their Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby. YWCA WOMEN of DISTINCTION: https://ywcaofedmonton.org/women-of-distinction/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/ PAY LESS FOR INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ KNOCK 50% OFF an annual subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... JOIN US APRIL 12 at the ICCHANGE GALA: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala 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.

Pollsters are starting to talk about a Mark Carney majority government. What a twist from just a few months ago, when it appeared Pierre Poilievre would cake walk his way to the PMO. Should Conservatives be hitting the panic button, or is there enough time to turn this trend around?  2:30 | Every Friday through the campaign, we're working with the policy firm Meredith, Boseenkool, and Phillips to present conversations across the political specetrum. This week, it's Rahim Mohamed and Shannon Phillips summing up Week One of the campaign, debating Danielle Smith's appearance with Ben Shapiro at a fundraiser in Florida, and allegations Mark Carney cheated on his PhD dissertation at Oxford.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below!  1:01:30 | Should Pierre Poilievre grow a beard? We ask AI to cook up a couple photos for your review in this very serious and undeniably insightful segment.  1:12:45 | We're thrilled to be working with Vicky Mochama on the new podcast Party All The Time. Episode One is out - subscribe, check it out, and let us know what you think!  PARTY ALL THE TIME ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://rtrj.info/PATTApplePodcasts PARTY ALL THE TIME ON SPOTIFY: https://rtrj.info/PATTSpotify PARTY ALL THE TIME TRAILER: https://rtrj.info/PATTTrailer 1:19:45 | Jenny and Nathan have no time for Premier Danielle Smith's trip to Florida, Ron doesn't like what he's hearing about Alberta separating from Canada, Michael calls out the Kool-Aid drinkers, and Brian has a question for "51st State" supporters. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  PAY LESS FOR INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ KNOCK 50% OFF an annual subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... JOIN US APRIL 12 at the ICCHANGE GALA: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Pierre Poilievre had a Hamilton crowd all riled up, talking about "unelected" Mark Carney "acting like he owns the world," the World Economic Forum, and defunding the CBC. The Conservative leader talked at length about steel and the carbon tax, but spent very little time addressing Donald Trump. POLITICO's Nick Taylor-Vaisey (33:20) was there, and tells us what we learned about Poilievre's strategy to mobilize blue collar voters. But first... 2:40 | Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi is taking unpaid leave to seek a federal seat with the Liberals. His critics are calling him a political opportunist and saying he should resign. We ask him why he won't, and why he thinks he can better serve Edmontonians in Ottawa.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment on this episode!  SUBSCRIBE TO POLITICO'S OTTAWA PLAYBOOK: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/ottawa-playbook 1:06:30 | It is DUMPING snow at Marmot Basin! We've got Alberta's most enthusiastic snow report and details on the upcoming Jasper Pride & Ski Festival (including an epic party at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge) in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.  CHECK THE CONDITIONS: https://www.skimarmot.com/ JASPER PRIDE: https://jasperpride.ca/ TOURISM JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ JOIN RYAN at the ICCHANGE GALA on APRIL 12: https://www.icchange.ca/2025gala 1:32:15 | Real Talker Janelle, a lifelong Conservative supporter, says her work in the Alberta Public Sector will change the way she votes.  EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com  SAVE BIG WITH PARK POWER: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ KNOCK 50% OFF an annual subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.

Most folks agree politicians' families are off limits when it comes to public criticism. But not all folks. A right wing media outlet in Canada made its own news in the lead-up to the election campaign, dragging Prime Minister Mark Carney's kid Sasha into the spotlight. 6:10 | Journalist Justin Ling tells us why he's pushing back on the Carney attack. READ JUSTIN'S WORK: https://www.bugeyedandshameless.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment here or email talk@ryanjespersen.com  38:00 | It's Neurodiversity Celebration Week! Tara Langan talks to us about ADHD, Autism, and the new Athabasca University course Neurodiversity in the Workplace.  CHECK OUT THE COURSE: https://powered.athabascau.ca/product?catalog=Neurodiversity-in-the-Workplace&__hstc=165944686.fbe769542343d2e1d51c9ac367ad2a69.1738942178704.1742406479742.1742567123629.24&__hssc=165944686.1.1742567123629&__hsfp=1888264866 1:28:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, featuring firsthand testimony on the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power. Real Talkers Michael and Don have thoughts on our March 20 interview with former Conservative MP James Cumming. WATCH THE JAMES CUMMING INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/032025CPC SAVE MONEY ON INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:46:00 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is threatening Ottawa with a "national unity crisis". Thoughts? 1:49:00 | Carolyn's hot in more ways than one, Gabe wonders if Albertans are "too stupid to know," Russ says Poilievre needs to free up his plane, RMc has the ballot box question, Gerald's got his tin foil hat on,  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  KNOCK 50% OFF an annual subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/real-ta... 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.