Podcasts about WestJet

Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer discuss Ottawa's new airline loan program, sparked by rising fuel costs from the ongoing Iran War. They explore WestJet's rejection of the government's proposal, and how government intervention creates market distortions and dependency in Canada's aviation sector. They then examine broader concerns about corporate welfare and protectionism across Canadian industries, and how these policies undermine both domestic competition and Canada's position in upcoming U.S. trade negotiations.The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet.Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go:https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple)https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify)Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=enCREDITS:Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer and EditorRudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer - Hosts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 41 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss how to maximize RBC Avion points, including earning methods, point tiers, and redemption strategies amid limited-time elevated credit card welcome offers. They explain the three Avion point types (Select, Premium, and Elite) and how Avion points of different tiers can be combined. They cover the best ways to earn Avion points, including via credit cards, shopping portals, banking promotions, and card-linked offers. Finally, they review key Avion transfer partners, including British Airways Avios, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, and American Airlines AAdvantage Miles. The team also shares why they caution against WestJet transfers, and outlines the RBC Air Travel Redemption Schedule and flexible travel redemption options.

Send us Fan MailAs one of the pioneers of loyalty and rewards programs, the airline industry has long known the value these programs bring when it comes to customer engagement and retention. But in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic—which ground travel to a halt—airline rewards programs became arguably more important than ever, as airlines across the world sought to get people flying again.  But according to Byron Kelly, Director of Loyalty at WestJet, the Canadian airline was getting more traction out of its WestJet RBC Mastercard, its co-brand credit card with Royal Bank of Canada, for purchases made on everything outside of travel.  “There were months where airlines were getting more money in cash receipts from their co-brand credit card spend than they were in ticket sales because nobody was buying tickets,” he said. “So, COVID wasn't a blessing for anyone but in some ways for loyalty programs it's shined a bit of a spotlight on the value, and I think helped accelerate acceptance of the value of the programs in some ways coming out of COVID.” 

Today on The Peak Daily, WestJet pushes to roll back Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations as the backlog of complaints keeps growing. Then, Spotify leans into the “clipping economy” with a new in-app tool that lets listeners cut and share podcast moments. Plus, the big picture: Lululemon settles its boardroom battle, Ottawa moves to diversify defence procurement, and Meta launches paid “Plus” tiers across its apps.The Peak Daily is produced in partnership with reframevid.com

In this monumental episode of The Wheeler and Tyler Podcast—Dave Wheeler stops the presses to recap his legendary, real-life hole-in-one from yesterday's round of golf. Once Tyler Carr stops rolling his eyes, the guys dive into a packed Tuesday lineup, covering a bizarre heist in Headingley where thieves literally stole a preschool's entire wooden playground structure, and France's controversial new ban on nicotine pouches.  Tyler makes a decision on his new tattoo, Dave rants about the government and the guys also break down the latest news on Ronda Rousey's upcoming Netflix fight, Miley Cyrus pop culture updates, and a major shift for PewDiePie as he pulls the plug on his family vlogs. From a runaway WestJet layover debate to Winnipeg's splash pads officially opening for the season, this episode hits the green and sinks it on the first shot.

Send us Fan Mail✈️ Air Baltic steckt tief in der Krise: Trotz steigender Passagierzahlen und höherem Umsatz wächst der Verlust massiv an. Jetzt steht eine mögliche Finanzspritze von bis zu 150 Millionen Euro im Raum. Doch Lufthansa will kein weiteres Geld investieren – und Lettland steht vor einer schweren Entscheidung. Wie kritisch ist die Lage wirklich?

Two more people, a French and US national, who were on board MV Hondius have confirmed cases of hantavirus. 4 Canadians from cruise ship at centre of hantavirus outbreak are back in Canada and isolating. WestJet accused of switching up aircraft to deny passengers compensation for flight delays. Man accused of trying to assassinate US President Donald Trump pleads not guilty to all charges. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer refusing to step down after Labour party suffers severe losses in municipal elections. Farmers confront rising cost of fertilizer and fuel as spring seeding underway. Canada's first tick research facility opens at Acadia University in Nova Scotia.

During the course of a year that saw heavy flight delays and cancellations, crowded airports and rising ticket prices and baggage fees, airlines in North America still managed to deliver stand-out passenger experiences. The JD power 2026 North America airline satisfaction study shows the overall satisfaction rate up 8 points (on a 1,000-point scale) year over year, with improvement occurring across all segments. However, as airfares have begun to skyrocket in 2026, airlines may soon find it difficult to offset high costs with great service, and customers can expect to see a lot of new fees this summer for fuel surcharges and checked bags. So, will travellers balk at higher prices or if they do travel, will they be starting their vacation in a lousy mood? In this episode of In This Economy?!, host Mike Eppel talks to Michael Taylor, senior managing director of travel, hospitality, retail and customer service at JD power, to discuss their recent findings, and what it could mean going forward. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

During the course of a year that saw heavy flight delays and cancellations, crowded airports and rising ticket prices and baggage fees, airlines in North America still managed to deliver stand-out passenger experiences. The JD power 2026 North America airline satisfaction study shows the overall satisfaction rate up 8 points (on a 1,000-point scale) year over year, with improvement occurring across all segments. However, as airfares have begun to skyrocket in 2026, airlines may soon find it difficult to offset high costs with great service,   and customers can expect to see a lot of new fees this summer for fuel surcharges and checked bags. So, will travellers balk at higher prices or if they do travel, will they be starting their vacation in a lousy mood?   In this episode of In This Economy?!, host Mike Eppel talks to Michael Taylor, senior managing director of travel, hospitality, retail and customer service at JD power, to discuss their recent findings, and what it could mean going forward.  Do you have a topic that's confounding you in this economy? We'll be happy to dig into it for you and get you the answers you need. Email us at: rogerspodcastnetwork@rci.rogers.com. Thank you for listening!

KLM flight attendant, 2 cruise passengers in Singapore, being tested for hantavirus after contact with woman who died in South Africa. Prime Minister Mark Carney's government planning changes to speed approvals for pipelines and other resource projects. Mexico brings trade mission to Canada ahead of summer review of CUSMA trade agreement. Israeli strike on Beirut marks first major violation of April ceasefire. Class action lawsuit alleging WestJet didn't have adequate harassment procedures and protocols back in court today. Care workers say company scrambling to replace staff as long-standing workers leave.

A new report notes Canadian entrepreneurship is in 'sharp decline' (1:10) Charles Lammam, Montreal Economic institute Senior Fellow Commentary: The Pipeline picture points south (11:16) Jet Fuel shortage sees Westjet increasing their fees for checked baggage (19:38) Claire Newell, President and Founder, Travel Best Bets B.C. Innovators (33:13) Benjamin Sparrow, CEO and co-founder of Saltworks Technologies Inc. Diljit Dosanjh at B.C. Place (52:01) Neesha Hothi, cultural strategist and communications leader with more than 20 years of experience across music, media, and large-scale cultural platforms, and executive director of 5xFest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors meet in Washington as the killing of a journalist Amal Khalil threatens a fragile ceasefire. US Navy Secretary John Phelan fired over alleged clashes with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. WestJet is hiking its baggage fees after Air Canada did the same less than two weeks ago. Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada is ready to go into a detailed CUSMA review, but is also ready to wait if that's what has to happen. Nova Scotia family angry after teenaged son facing mental health crisis discharged to homeless shelter. Canada's first university in the arctic will be Inuit-led and located in Arviat, Nunavut. Tickets for Punjabi pop artists Diljit Dosanjh and Karan Aujla selling fast in Canada.

A war of words between Canada and the U.S. over trade 'irritants' ahead of CUSMA talks, with PM Carney saying Canada has concerns too; Air Transat, Air Canada, WestJet, and Lufthansa trim flight schedules as war-fueled oil spikes disrupt travel and raise costs; and a new U.K. tobacco bill targets a smoke-free generation but faces enforcement questions.

Send us Fan MailFrom a rural airstrip in Flagstaff County to the cockpit of a commercial airliner, this episode explores what it takes to turn a dream into a career in aviation.Host Cary Castagna sits down with Aaron Forster, who grew up just outside Sedgewick, Alberta, learned to fly at Flagstaff Regional Airport, and now flies commercially with WestJet.Aaron reflects on the early spark that drew him to aviation, the realities of flight training, and the path that led him to the flight deck. He also shares what life is like as a commercial pilot and offers advice for anyone considering a similar path.The conversation also touches on growing up in Flagstaff County, the role of local opportunity, and the mindset required to pursue something bigger.

0:11 - U.S. forces board oil tanker as Iran, U.S. signal another round of ceasefire talks. 10:42 - The roller-coaster price of oil is bad for almost everyone. 21:17 - We take your calls and texts on oil prices, 30:04 - Canadian airfares rise for first time in two years as cost of jet fuel soars. 41:02 - WestJet cuts flight capacity due to jet fuel costs, following Air Canada's lead. 48:45 - Premier Danielle Smith teases future bid from Alberta for the Olympics; could we actually see this happen? 58:08 - Alberta teens, advocate support social media ban and want more urgency from the feds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On April Fools' Day, WestJet joked about putting a barefoot ban in place--but for many, this wasn't a joke; it was something they supported! What rule would you implement on airplanes? Would you require headphones for all audio? Enforced boarding zones? Having kid-free flights? Call us at 1-877-332-8255 to join the conversation.

Text Carole & AndrewIn this episode: Mike's Rewind  Angry, Angry Andrew – WestJet  Dawn's Fact Check  Listener Questions, Comments & Reviews  Michelle's Random Thought – Bananas and Strawberries   Dick – Woman on probation arrested for robbery  Dumbass – Door Dash driver on E-bike  WTF – YouTube chef drops bombshell  Liar – Woman wants refund for her tuna sub  Karen – Woman wants refund at McDonalds  Freakout – Parking dispute erupts in gunfire  Checking in With the Politicians – Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick  Wizard of Oz – Frozen Grapes  The Doctor's Office – Cure For Malaria   What Does Kevin Think? – Hall Pass  Lamont's Lament – Back to back passengers  How Smart is Carole? – Medical Breakthroughs  The Big Blue Folder  We get played out with Canadian Airlines Suck  Out-takes   This episode of Grose Misconduct was sponsored by Crystal Glass, Leading Edge Physiotherapy, Ol' MacDonald's Resort, Meathead Butcher Shop, Daybreak Photo, The Edmonton Comedy Festival and Mad Lashes @CrystalGlassLTD @LeadingEdgePT @Macker63 @yegcomedy @mikedmonton @DawnsFactCheck @docTonyM  @MeatHeadInc Support the show

Orion spacecraft enters lunar sphere of influence, Canadian Jeremy Hansen and the other 3 Artemis II astronauts prepare to fly by the far side of the moon. Reports say mediators propose 45 day ceasefire to end US and Israeli war with Iran. India leans on Russian oil as Middle East war chokes off traditional supplies. Air Canada Vacations and WestJet add surcharge to some flights to address soaring price of gas. Canada's trade routes to the US are changing amidst high toll and geopolitical uncertainty.A new distance nursing program hopes to help northern Manitoba First Nation retains its health-care workers.Cruise ship hits reef, runs aground near tiny island in Fiji.

Air Canada says CEO Michael Rousseau will retire later this year, after being criticized for his lack of French in a condolence video for two pilots. US President Donald Trump is issuing new threats against Iran, vowing to target civilian infrastructure if a deal is not reached shortly.Finance minister François-Philippe Champagne to visit China this week on trade mission. A Winnipeg man takes West Jet to court, after finding out the reason for his cancelled flight was not what he was told. Canadian Medical Association Journal is asking doctors to look out for cognitive decline in heart patients.The Beaches win third consecutive Group of the Year award at last night's Junos, making history.

Thousands of Iranians flee to Turkey as war and blackouts hide the crisis at home. Israel hits Tehran with new strikes as Trump extends his "energy ultimatum" by ten days. Secretary of State Marco Rubio facing pressure to explain US plan for Iran war as he meets G-7 foreign ministers in France. Former rapper Balendra Shah sworn in as Nepal's youngest-ever prime minister. Liberal MP Michael Ma faces backlash for appearing to downplay forced labour in China. Ottawa warned of WestJet safety risks weeks before viral legroom video. Parks Canada bans boats in Banff and Jasper to fight deadly fish parasite.

Documents obtained by CBC News show Transport Canada officials were warned about the risks of WestJet's reconfigured planes, which limited leg room in many seats. A flight attendant called the new design an ‘imminent safety risk.'Also: NDP faithful are gathered in Winnipeg this weekend to choose a new leader. The winner will take over a party with just a handful of MPs, and one trying to recover from its worst election result in a half century.And: The increasing threats to some of the world's most recognizable animal species, and the new efforts to save them from extinction.Plus: Canada's gun buyback program, NASA preps for Artemis launch, Junos weekend, and more.

An aircraft dispatcher describes how weather, war, space launches, and other disruptions can throw airline operations into chaos. In the news, Rolls-Royce on the open-rotor engine design, pilots petition SpaceX Starlink over a price increase, an NTSB board member is fired, Lufthansa changes the carry-on policy for violins, and Barbados controllers stage an unexpected strike. Guest Mike Karrels is an aircraft dispatcher and air traffic manager for the Southeast U.S. with a major U.S. carrier, and he's also a pilot. That combination gives him a unique view of how decisions get made when things don't go as planned. Mike describes the aircraft dispatcher as the captain's partner on the ground. The two share responsibility for operational control of the flight, which means they work together to decide if a flight should continue, divert, or turn back. When an unplanned event hits, the dispatcher is often the first one building the big-picture view: what's happening, who it affects, and what options are actually realistic. Sometimes the disruption is regional. An airport closes, weather rolls in, military operations pop up, or a space launch creates airspace that suddenly can't be used. In those cases, it's not just about one flight. Crews and aircraft can end up scattered in the wrong places, the passengers need to be taken care of, and the operation has to be reassembled. Aircraft dispatchers and other teams work together to untangle that mess and put airplanes and people back where they need to be. Other times, it's just one airplane with a problem. Maybe a mechanical issue, a medical situation, or conditions deteriorating at the destination. The aircraft dispatcher has to make a decision. Divert to another airport? Return to the origin? Each choice has tradeoffs. Mike walks through the kinds of factors that come into play. Beyond passenger impact and safety, aircraft dispatchers look at things like whether there's ground staff at the diversion airport, what kind of ground transportation is available, and how quickly the airplane can be turned around and put back into service. Crew duty and rest rules are another major piece: a decision that solves the immediate problem might leave a crew out of legal flying time later, stranding passengers or aircraft. On top of government regulations, airlines often layer on their own rules. For example, there may be company policies about diverting into an uncontrolled field, even if it's technically legal. Dispatchers have to navigate both sets of requirements while still making timely decisions in a dynamic situation. Getting to that level of responsibility takes serious training and certification. Aircraft dispatchers are required to understand aircraft performance, weather, navigation, regulations, and company procedures. They also need to stay aware of the geopolitical environment. Overflight restrictions, conflict zones, and international rules all shape where a flight can and should go on a given day. Spaceflight adds yet another wrinkle. Mike talks about the Aircraft Hazard Area, or AHA, around space launches: the region where debris might fall if something goes wrong. Those areas can close significant chunks of airspace and affect routes and alternates, even for flights that seem far from the launch site. Mike owns a share of a vintage 1963 Beechcraft Musketeer. He produced the Flying and Life podcast, where he shared stories and perspectives from both sides of the cockpit door. The back catalog of those episodes is still available for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the world of flight dispatch and everyday aviation life. See: FAA: Airplanes should stay far away from SpaceX's next Starship launch Environmental Impact Statement, SpaceX Starship-Heavy Launch Vehicle at Launch Complex 39A [PDF] New Glenn AHA Aviation News Rolls-Royce remains unconvinced that open-rotor benefit outweighs integration risk What type of engine (or engines) will be offered on next-generation single-aisle aircraft? Will it be an open-rotor (an unducted fan) or a conventional ducted fan engine? What will the airframers want and what will the engine OEMs offer? All those questions are unanswered. In wind tunnel tests ten years ago, RR looked at open-rotor noise and high-speed performance. More recently, the company validated its previous work and sees propulsion efficiency advantages. RR sees two areas of concern: risk and integration issues. Integration issues include: engine noise entering the cabin that would have to be attenuated, protecting against a blade-out event, aerodynamic interaction with the wing, and the effect on overall aerodynamics. Rolls-Royce director of research and technology Alan Newby says the company is unconvinced the open-rotor is the way to go, saying, “I can do windtunnel work. I can do simulations, if you like, and I can go and fly on an A380. But the time you realise whether it works or not is when you run that first engine on your production aircraft. That's a long way down the road. That discovery of risk is a long time in the process.” After considering performance and risk, Newby says Rolls-Royce favours the ducted fan configuration: “We've gone into it with our eyes open. We've looked at the previous data. And, on balance, we're sticking with what we've got. We think it's the right solution.” Rolls-Royce makes a play for narrowbody aircraft engines with £3bn UltraFan 30 programme In February 2026, Rolls-Royce revealed a mock-up of the ducted UltraFan 30 concept with a geared turbofan. The company is looking for up to £200 million in UK government support to help fund development and testing of a scaled demonstrator. More than £500 million has already been invested. The overall program could cost around £3 billion. The Rolls-Royce UltraFan 30 narrowbody engine is a 30,000 lb thrust-class geared turbofan derived from Rolls-Royce's UltraFan architecture. It features a 90-inch fan and targets up to 20% better fuel burn than current engines. Ground testing is from 2028, with entry into service targeting 2035. Pilots Petition Starlink Following Shift to New Speed Tiers Airlines are switching to SpaceX Starlink service on their airplanes. Many GA pilots use the compact Mini dish and a Roam plan because it gives them the ability to use phone and tablet applications for real-time weather access, flight planning updates, and communications. SpaceX has changed its Starlink in-motion service offerings, which moves many GA pilots into a higher-priced plan. A change.org petition, Request reinstatement of Starlink roaming plans for pilots has been created and signed by thousands of pilots: “For those of us in general aviation, Starlink has been nothing short of a revolution. As a general aviation pilot, having Starlink service on board has dramatically enhanced my flying experience, improving not only my situational awareness but also my ability to access up-to-date weather and airport safety information while airborne. These capabilities are critical to ensuring the safety and efficiency of our flights, and allow us to maintain communication with others while traveling, providing peace of mind to both pilots and our loved ones.” “However, Starlink has recently made the disappointing decision to raise the cost of the plans serving general aviation by 5 times, while providing less than half of the data of the previous plans simply based on the speed that our planes travel.  Many of us are not commercial operations nor traveling near the speeds that these plans are targeting.” “We urge Starlink to reconsider their decision and reinstate the roaming plans with a speed that accommodates general aviation…” The Current in-motion speed limits for Roam, Local Priority, and Global Priority (land/sea use) are up to 100 mph in motion. Above that, Starlink expects you to move to an aviation plan. The new Aviation 300MPH plan is $250 per month and includes 20 GB of data, with overage billed at $10 per GB. The new Aviation 450MPH plan is $1,000 per month and includes 20 GB of data, with additional data billed at $50 per GB. Includes land and ocean coverage. NTSB board member Inman says he was fired by White House A Republican member of the U.S. National ​Transportation Safety Board said on Sunday he was fired on Friday ‌by the White House without any explanation. Todd Inman, a former chief of staff to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, was fired ‌by the White House, at the time without any explanation. Inman had served on the ​NTSB since April 2024. White House says NTSB member was fired for inappropriate alcohol use, harassment After the firing, a White House statement said, “The White House lawfully removed Todd Inman from the NTSB after receiving highly concerning reports of inappropriate alcohol use on the job, harassment of staff, misuse of government resources, and failure to attend at least half of NTSB meetings. Inman told Politico, “I categorically deny the allegations made in the White House statement. It has become increasingly obvious this action was a political hit job. While not my original intent, I look forward to defending my reputation through all legal means possible.” Lufthansa Softens Violin Policy After Backlash Over “Naked Violin” Incident Lufthansa strictly limits carry-on baggage item dimensions to 55 x 40 x 23 cm. At the same time, the airline allows violins and other small musical instruments to travel in the cabin free of charge. However, many standard violin cases are greater than 55 cm in length. That means the options are to check the instrument or purchase a second seat. The classical music community exploded after a viral video of a musician carrying a violin onboard without the case. Lufthansa now says airline staff can exercise more flexibility to allow small instruments in the cabin. The combined dimensions of the hand luggage cannot exceed 125 centimeters. In the United States, federal law requires airlines to allow small instruments such as violins onboard if they can be safely stowed in the cabin. Europe has no equivalent rule, leaving each airline to develop its own policy. See: Tom Paxton – Thank You, Republic Airlines (1985) Dave Carrol & Sons of Maxwell (2009) – United Breaks Guitars Carlton Cases Multiple Planes Performed ‘Flights to Nowhere' After Air Traffic Controllers Stage Shock Walkout After an unsanctioned strike by air traffic controllers, the Barbados Ministry of Tourism and International Transport said that the airspace over the country was shut down for about seven and a half hours. The March 7, 2026, job action left passengers at the island's Grantley Adams International Airport stranded. The controllers were protesting a number of grievances, including staff shortages. These have caused controllers to assume additional responsibilities without extra compensation. An emergency meeting was held with the Barbados Workers' Union and the National Union of Public Workers, which represent air traffic controllers. They returned to work, and another meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2026. Delta, United, Air Canada, JetBlue, and WestJet flights to Barbados were impacted. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

Send a textWelcome to the What's Up in Business Travel  podcast for Week 8 of 2026.  This weekly podcast is great for those who need to know what's happening in the world of business travel - in under 15 minutes.On this week's podcast, we cover the following stories:United & JetBlue expand Blue Sky partnershipNorth American On-Time performance reboundsAir Canada reports record Q4 and strong year resultsExpedia Group leans into AI and direct booking growthUnited to acquire O'Hare Gates from SpiritEurope's Entry/Exit System causes airport delaysAir Transat exits U.S. market due to demand dropNavan Study highlights transparency challengesIxigo launches airport cab serviceSouthwest rolls out Starlink WiFi Uber expands Autonomous Vehicle rolloutAmadeus to decommission self-service developer portalOTAs gain share in Tours and ActivitiesSabre and WestJet extend technology partnershipYou can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360.  Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show

Plus: Ukraine marks four years since Russia's invasion, U.S. President Donald Trump's State of the Union address, and the U.S. Men's Hockey team is under fire. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca  Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

This episode is available in audio format on the Let's Talk Loyalty podcast and in video format on www.Loyalty.TV.TELUS is one of Canada's largest telecommunications companies, serving millions of customers across mobile, internet, TV, and digital health services. What makes TELUS particularly interesting from a loyalty perspective is how they've evolved their interactions with TELUS Services customers (mobility, internet, security and TV) through a new national tiered program, TELUS Rewards, that combines points and perks with extension into some major leading category partnerships and their programs, including WestJet.Aaron Dauphinee sat down with Jacob Pullia, Director of Content, Strategy & Business Development is he leads the way in redefining how TELUS thinks about loyalty and their mandate of putting customers first. We also spend some time discussing partnership models and why the connection with WestJet makes sense for both organizations and their joint customers.Hosted by Aaron DauphineeShow notes:1) Jacob Pullia2) TELUS Rewards3) TELUS4) Book Recommendation: Personalized Customer Strategy in the Age of AI

Greg Brady spoke with Claire Newell, Travel Consultant with Travel Best Bets about Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat to resume flights Tuesday as Canadians remain stranded in Puerto Vallarta in wake of cartel violence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Air Canada and West Jet are among the several airlines who've suspended travel to Cuba, as the country grapples with a Venezuelan oil blockade at the hands of US President Trump. As a result, the Island remains in critical condition, with the fuel shortage threatening electricity grids, and supply levels of basic necessities quickly dwindling. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Mark Entwistle, former Ambassador of Canada to Cuba and Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. They discuss how the next few weeks could unfold if the US doesn't allow for oil shipments, and the potential of the Cuban regime crumbling. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Elias Makos is joined by Paul Gott, Lead singer and guitarist for Montreal Punk Rock band the Ripcordz and a journalism professor at Concordia, and Dan Delmar, Co-founder of the content marketing firm TNKR Media and co-host of the podcast Inspiring Entrepreneurs Canada. U.S. President Donald Trump is threatening to “not allow” a new bridge between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, to open unless the United States is “fully compensated for everything” it has given Canada. The Quebec government has no intention of reviewing its funding of concert giants Evenko and Live Nation, despite questions about how the companies favour English in concert bookings. Opening statements made yesterday in a landmark trial that claims Meta and YouTube created ‘Digital Casinos.’ Despite being told by several travel agencies that we should not be worried about going to Cuba, Air Canada, Air Transat and WestJet have all suspended flights to the Caribbean destination.

Après Air Canada, c'est au tour de WestJet et de Transat de suspendre leurs vols vers Cuba en raison de la pénurie de kérosène.

Recorded live at SocialEast 2025 at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, this episode of the Marketing News Canada podcast features guest host Odum Idika, Host of Unconventional Mindset and Founder of Piixel Studio, in conversation with Corey Evans, Director of Brand and Advertising at ATCO and former marketing leader at WestJet.Corey shares a behind-the-scenes look at one of Canada's most iconic marketing moments, the WestJet Christmas Miracle, and what it took to execute a high-risk experiential campaign that generated over 35 million organic views. From stepping in as Santa to navigating real-time uncertainty during a live activation, he explains why putting the audience experience first, and the brand second, was key to its success.The conversation explores what experiential marketing really means today, why authentic human moments outperform polished ads, and how marketers of any size can create meaningful connections by deeply understanding their audience. Corey also reflects on the rise of creator-led marketing, real-time brand participation, and the importance of adaptability in an increasingly noisy content landscape.This episode was recorded live on-site at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel during SocialEast 2025, part of the SocialNext conference series, Canada's leading platform for marketing conferences, media, and community.

Al Lewis, who writes Business Blunders on Substack, explains why big companies make big mistakes (Hint: it's money). We'll explore why your money problems may call for a financial therapist, and not just an adviser. Also, we ask Chris Sands of Johns Hopkins University what could happen if the U.S. Supreme Court rules that Trump's tariffs are illegal.

DAMIONMLK Day:Incoming Walmart CEO John Furner:Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy reminds us blahblahblah. During our annual MLK Day Celebration, we reflected on blahblahblah. We care for people. Blahblahblah We strive to be honest, fair, and courageous. And we put others first in the work we do to help people live better.When we lead with care, show respect and do what's right, we honor Dr. King's legacy through action and continue building a Walmart that reflects our purpose and values.Walmart: $27,408,854, the fiscal 2025 annual total compensation of our median associate was $29,469, and the ratio of these amounts was 930:1.By 11:14 AM: He has earned $29,469 (the median worker's entire year of labor).Total Earnings by MLK Day: ~$1,425,000That $1.4 million is equivalent to the lifetime earnings of 48 median Walmart associates (assuming each works for one year at $29,469)As of January 20, 2026, the combined net worth of the Walton family has reached a historic $513.4 billion, according to the latest Bloomberg and Forbes data.As of January 2026, the Walton family collectively receives approximately $3.4 billion per year in dividends from Walmart.Per Day: The family earns roughly $9.27 million every day just by owning the stock.Per Hour: They earn about $386,000 per hour, 24 hours a day.King was literally campaigning for a living wage in Memphis when he was shot by the FBI. your move, walmart CEO John Furner WHO DO YOU BLAME?WestJet reverses cramped seating layout after viral videos show passengers' knees pressed against seats.In the reconfigured layout, which rolled out in late October on select Boeing 737s, space between rows was reduced to 28 inches to accommodate an extra row of seats. WestJet also made economy class seats non-reclinable, offering passengers the option to pay extra for adjustable seats.In a news statement, the company said it will reverse what it called the "densified seating" by removing the additional row of seats.WHO DO YOU BLAME?Samantha (Sam) Taylor was appointed WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer March 2025. Sam joined Sunwing in March 2020 as Chief Marketing Officer. Sam's portfolio is accountable for critical touch points in the guest journey and includes leading all Marketing, Guest Experience and Contact Centres for WestJet and Sunwing Vacations. MMStakeholders!Customers: WestJet's rollout of the reconfigured seats has sparked widespread outrage among travelers and even crew members.Employees: Reuters reported that pilots and flight attendants have raised concerns over the new configuration's comfort and safety, specifically whether passengers could safely evacuate the plane in an emergency due to the confined seating.Journalists: Reuters reported that pilots and flight attendants have raised concerns over the new configuration's comfort and safety, specifically whether passengers could safely evacuate the plane in an emergency due to the confined seating.Labor Unions: Alia Hussain, president of the union local representing WestJet cabin personnel, said: "It created a hostile working environment for us as cabin personnel."Onex Corporation, WestJet's publicly traded ownersWhich is really founder and board Chair Gerry Schwartz (annual Chair fee of $1 million), who maintains 100% control of the Multiple Voting Shares (MVS) of Onex Corporation, which effectively grants him 60% of the total voting power in the company.This control allows him to elect 60% of the members of Onex's Board of Directors. While he also personally holds a significant portion of the Subordinate Voting Shares (SVS)—roughly 11.3% as of late 2024—the primary mechanism of his control is the MVS class.All stupid U.S. dual class dictatorships who do not do this!!The "Sunset" Provision: In May 2023, Onex shareholders approved a plan to implement a "sunset" on these special voting rights. Under this agreement, Schwartz's multiple voting rights are scheduled to expire three years after the effective date of the amendment (roughly May 2026).Current Status: As we are currently in early 2026, Schwartz remains the controlling shareholder. Upon the "Event of Change" later this year, the Multiple Voting Shares will convert into Subordinate Voting Shares, and he will lose his absolute control, shifting the company toward a more traditional governance structure.Matt Damon says Netflix wants to make action movies differently to account for shorter attention spansHow the art of filmmaking is being subvertedThe "Say What You Do" Rule: Writers are frequently being told to eliminate subtext. In traditional filmmaking, if a character is sad, you show them staring at a cold cup of coffee. Now, streamers often request that the character explicitly say, "I'm just so sad right now," or have another character ask, "Why are you so sad?"The Reason: If you are looking at your phone during a silent, emotional shot, you miss the story. If the character says it out loud, you can follow the plot without looking at the screen.Heightened Audio Cues: If you've noticed that modern movies have very aggressive sound design—sudden loud bangs, dramatic musical stings, or high-pitched notification-like sounds—it's often intentional.The "Audio Hook": These sounds act like a "ping" to pull your eyes back from your phone to the TV. It's a literal alarm clock for your attention.The "First 10 Minutes" Mandate: In the past, a movie could have a "slow burn" opening (think 2001: A Space Odyssey). Today, Netflix and other streamers use data that shows exactly when a user hits the "Back" button.The Note: Writers are told that a "major event" (an explosion, a death, or a massive hook) must happen within the first 2 to 5 minutes. If the "inciting incident" happens at the 20-minute mark, the data shows they will lose 30% of the audience to TikTok.Centered Framing: Cinematographers are increasingly being told to keep the "important" action in the center of the frame.The Reason: This makes the content easier to view on a mobile device if the user decides to switch from the TV to their phone, or if they are watching a cropped "clip" of the movie on social media later.Increased "Recapping": Have you noticed characters summarizing what just happened more often?The "TikTok Brain" Fix: Because people are multitasking, they often lose the thread of the plot. Streamers now encourage dialogue like, "So, let me get this straight, we have to get the key from the vault before the guard returns in five minutes?" It's a recap for someone who tuned out for the last three minutes.WHO DO YOU BLAME?Netflix: Ted Sarandos & Greg Peters (Co-CEOs of Netflix), Reed Hastings, Jay HoagDrug CEOs (re: The Algorithm): Passive Viewing: Data shows that up to 94% of people use a phone while watching TV.TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew: TikTok is widely considered the pioneer of the "Short-Form Video" era. Its algorithm is specifically designed to provide "intermittent reinforcement" (like a slot machine), which studies suggest can reduce the ability to focus on long-term tasks.Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg: Zuckerberg pivoted Facebook and Instagram (Reels) to aggressively compete with TikTok. Critics argue this transition turned a platform for connection into one of "passive scrolling" that further erodes focus.YouTube CEO Neal Mohan: Under his leadership, YouTube Shorts was launched to capture the short-attention-span market. Even YouTube co-founder Steve Chen has recently warned that these short videos are "shrinking kids' attention spans."Smartphones: Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs MMStanford: The "Father of Persuasive Tech": B.J. FoggStanford's Persuasive Technology Lab, run by B.J. Fogg, taught many of the founders and early employees of Instagram and Facebook.The "Fogg Behavior Model" taught engineers how to use "triggers" and "rewards" to change human behavior through software. He provided the scientific framework that allowed tech companies to treat the human brain like hardware that could be "hacked" for maximum engagement.Trump calls NYSE Dallas expansion plans 'unbelievably bad' for New York: Trump says move poses 'big test' for newly inaugurated Mayor Zohran Mamdani. WHICH HYPOCRISY DO YOU BLAME?The Free Market BullshitTrump and Texas leaders have long championed the freedom of businesses to flee blue-state regulations. However, now that a prestigious icon like the NYSE is actually expanding to Dallas, Trump has pivoted to calling it "unbelievably bad" for New York.The Anti-Woke /Anti-ESG scaremongeringTexas frames itself as a "Sanctuary from Socialism," yet the Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) is being used to bypass ESG transparency. While railing against woke mandates, these leaders are creating their own ideological silos—demanding a protected market where management isn't held accountable by shareholders for social or environmental impacts.Texas AG Ken Paxton described BlackRock, State Street, and Vanguard as an "investment cartel" that was "illegally controlling national energy markets" and "squeezing more money out of hardworking Americans."Paxton sent a formal warning to Larry Fink and other CEOs, stating that their "radical environmental policies" and "race-based quotas" (DEI) would face severe enforcement actions if they prioritized "politics over consumers."Lead by example: Trump quits NYC and Musk's Dexit to Y'all StreetThroughout his 2024 campaign, Trump consistently compared New York unfavorably to states like Florida and Texas: as an example, he pointed to the lack of state income tax in Florida as a reason why "everyone is leaving New York." Elon Musk's Dexit from Delaware/California is sold as a strike for freedom, yet his empire is built on nearly $40 billion in government subsidies and contracts. He moved to Texas to escape over-regulation (re: his pay package and people being mad about nooses in his factories) while simultaneously heading the most over-regulatory body ever: Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).Leader name calling and scaremongeringTrump's pre-bromance attacks on New York's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani (communist lunatic" and a "Marxist"). Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson (UPenn, Harvard, Princeton): "un-American socialist impulse" and explicitly marketed Dallas as a "sanctuary from socialism" for businesses looking to Dexit New York. The Elite vs. Common Man NonsenseDespite bullshit Y'all Street populist framing, the Texas Stock Exchange is backed by the world's most powerful financial titans. There is no common man victory here; it is the CEO class moving the financial capital to a jurisdiction with fewer labor protections and less oversight.The Big Four Anchor InvestorsBlackRock: (managing ~$14 trillion), despite being the primary target of "anti-woke" and anti-ESG rhetoric from the same politicians who support the TXSE.Citadel Securities: Led by Ken Griffin, this firm executes roughly 1 in 4 of all stock trades in the U.S. Left Chicago for Miami.J.P. Morgan Chase: Jamie Dimon. Joined in 2025 during a $90 million funding round and holds an observer seat on the board.Charles Schwab: handles over 50% of U.S. retail stock orders.MATTWalmart International CEO Kath McLay to step down - WHO DO YOU BLAME?Half exiting CEO Doug McMillonMcLay was under McMillon her entire tenure at WalMart, raised to CEO of the international divisionClearly a protege - passed over for the new CEO?Incoming CEO John FurnerThe white guy who became CEO is such an interesting new story, but Furner started as a sales clerk and has been with the WALTONS a long time through Sam's Club as CEO, another Walton jointFurner/McMillon/Walton family named David Guggina CEO of Walmart US (passing McLay), Chris Nicholas replace McLay, Seth Dallaire was made chief growth officer… rounding out an all male promotion cycle of new execs - no women in major positionsMaybe McLay read the tea leaves - women got chief legal and chief of people, like everywhere else, but leave the big jobs to the swinging dicks.The compensation and management development committee, who according to the company charter, ir responsible to “periodically review and recommend to the full Board succession planning practices for the Company's CEO and other executive officers.”Carla Harris (chair) - black woman with “multicultural” in her job description at Morgan Stanley who apparently didn't apply “multiculturalism” to Walmart executive search?Marissa Mayer - yes, THAT Marissa Mayer, who is on the board of Starbucks with Brian Niccol and AT&T where Randall Stephenson was CEOBrian Niccol - CEO of Starbucks, with no conflict by having Marissa Mayer on the same boardRandall Stephenson - ex CEO of AT&T, with no conflict of interest by having Marissa Mayer on the board. Also on the board - Tom Horton, ex CEO of American Airlines who was… CFO of AT&T under StephensonShishir Mehrotra - who worked at Google via YouTube when… Marissa Mayer worked there (she was in search/maps)Kath McLay, who just couldn't cut it at Walmart anymoreAn SEC official has said (implied) you don't HAVE to vote your proxies as an investor - WHO DO YOU BLAME?Brian Daly, who gave a speech titled (Re)Empowering Fiduciaries in Proxy Voting on Jan 8 in which he argued that not voting doesn't necessarily violate fiduciary dutyGamblers: “Not voting makes sense in many situations. Look, for example, at quantitative and systematic managers, who often operate models that merely seek exposures to identified sources of alpha.”Index investors: “But it may be appropriate for these categories of investment advisers (and the Boards that exercise oversight over this function) to consider whether taking positions on fundamental corporate matters, or on precatory proposals, is consistent with their investment mandates.”Hedging himself: “So, there is no stock answer to the “Must I vote?” question... Instead, it is important that advisers and clients have a fair amount of latitude to decide what works in their individual cases.”Threatening using proxy advisors: “And if we are raising issues for consideration, I will also mention, because the President did, that there is real concern out there that habitual adherence to a proxy consultant's recommendations could pull an adviser into a Section 13(d) group.”Investors, because no matter what Brian Daly suggests, investors almost never vote against management and neither do proxy advisors, so what the fuck are we talking about?Cost, because Daly points out, “And in assessing proposed votes, investment advisers might utilize the Fiduciary Interpretation's concept of a “reasonable inquiry into the client's objectives.” If an investment adviser routinely follows a proxy advisor's stock recommendations without a tailored engagement or independent analysis, is this “reasonable inquiry?” Maybe, but it is certainly worth thinking about. And, to go back to the first question, if the voting process is so burdensome that it requires extensive external resources, why is the adviser voting at all?”John Chevedden, along with Jim McRitchie, without whom we have maybe half the shareholder rights as SP500 companies, and who the no-action data is now showing is disproportionately getting responses for exclusion from the SEC (as if to double down on the idea that we can ignore those commie socialists entirely, but we want to tell you explicitly you're totally legally cool and there's no threat if you exclude Chevedden). Chevedden might be the reason investors were voting at all - maybe now they won't have to?

Is Dylan finally going to move to Devon? We learn that Dylan wants to eventually retire in Thailand. Is travelling to Thailand longer than taking a rocket to the moon? Some feedback on the new condensed seating offered by WestJet. We discuss the possibility of a Billy Idol Biopic. Then, we name all the famous people named Billy we can think of. Dylan is very confused by a social media post on the KiSS Edmonton accounts. Why does everyone think Pepper & Dylan are dating. Some comparisons are made involving the show "Heated Rivalry". We play some Robbie The Intern throwback songs. A brief history of Robbie getting hiring. Then, we play the potty training song he made for his niece.

In Keep Canada Weird Jordan and Aaron Airport explore the weird and offbeat Canadian news stories from the past week. In this episode your hosts discuss; Taco Bell's continued Newfoundland invasion Being fat-shamed by WestJet The WORST 911 calls of 2025 Two kids in court over a dinosaur Series Links Keep Canada Weird Series: https://www.thecanadiangothic.com/keep-canada-weird Send a voice memo: www.thecanadiangothic.com/contact Join the Keep Canada Weird Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepcanadaweird Provide feedback and comments on the episode: thecanadiangothic.com/contact Subscribe to the show: thecanadiangothic.com/subscribe Contact: Website: https://www.thecanadiangothic.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCanadianGothic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecanadiangothic/ Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/thecanadiangothic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Keep Canada Weird Jordan and Aaron Airport explore the weird and offbeat Canadian news stories from the past week. In this episode your hosts discuss; Taco Bell's continued Newfoundland invasion Being fat-shamed by WestJet The WORST 911 calls of 2025 Two kids in court over a dinosaur Series Links Keep Canada Weird Series: https://www.thecanadiangothic.com/keep-canada-weird Send a voice memo: www.thecanadiangothic.com/contact Join the Keep Canada Weird Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepcanadaweird Provide feedback and comments on the episode: thecanadiangothic.com/contact Subscribe to the show: thecanadiangothic.com/subscribe Contact: Website: https://www.thecanadiangothic.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCanadianGothic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecanadiangothic/ Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/thecanadiangothic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We welcome Andrew H. - winner of the 2025 Cult of Ron & Brian Death Pool - to discuss his winning year, and we surprise him with his enshrinement in our new Death Pool Hall of Fame! We discuss the many ways in which ICE is horrible, rude Broadway patrons, and the lack of legroom on WestJet. We also talk about a hacktivist deleting racist websites, Oceania Cruises going adults-only, and Brian's inability to understand mailing addresses!

A traumatizing, air travel experience is no stranger to the everyday Canadian. But it seems the TikToks and online posts of complaints seem to do little in terms of garnering real and sustainable change from our aviation sector. The federal government recently granted more access to Middle Eastern airlines to fly into Canadian airports in hopes of creating competition. It comes in response to a 2025 Competition Bureau report that called for less restrictions on foreign investment. Host Maria Kestane speaks to John Gradek, aviation expert and professor at McGill University to discuss what changes Canada's aviation industry should implement to restore consumer trust in air travel, and what progress has been made since the 2023 federal commitment of improving the air passenger protection regulations. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

US Lawmakers vow to scrutinize the Trump Administration's military action in the Caribbean Sea, and whether Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued an order to "kill everyone" on a small vessel in September. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says maintaining his country's sovereignty is key, as US officials travel to Russia to continue peace talks. Search continues for the suspect or suspects in a shooting in Stockton, California that left 4 people dead, including 3 children. At least 604 people have been killed by flooding and landslides in Indonesia. Advocates say the fight against HIV/AIDS has changed since the first World AIDS day in 1988. WestJet and Air Transat passengers fight back after airlines falsely claim they can't film disputes.

On this week's Walker Webcast, Willy was joined by aviation-industry trailblazer David Neeleman, the Founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. Over the past three decades, David has launched some of the most successful airlines in the world — including JetBlue, Azul Brazilian Airlines, and WestJet. He and Willy discussed David's entrepreneurial origin story, his entry into the aviation industry, his mission to “bring humanity back to air travel,” managing the growth of JetBlue, Breeze's unique business model, the importance of transparency, and the convergency of technology and innovation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

00:00:00 – Intro, missed “1337” leetspeak milestone; coffee sponsor; caller-art bit 00:04:54 – Trump fighter-jet poop meme sparks Kenny Loggins/Danger Zone backlash 00:09:53 – Variety piece read; “Freeway to the Problem Area” legal/AI riff 00:14:44 – Top Gun, Pentagon-Hollywood office, celeb “No Kings” reactions 00:19:30 – More on protests; tee-up to AI parody song bit 00:23:14 – Performing the AI parody: “Freeway to the Problem Area” lyric gag 00:27:40 – HBO developing David Chase MKULTRA series; Gottlieb & Manchurian-candidate talk 00:32:21 – “We're all living through MKULTRA” via social media; pivot to 3I/Atlas 00:36:44 – Avi Loeb TV clip: delayed NASA images; mothership/probes speculation 00:41:38 – NY Post write-up: NASA group watching 3I/Atlas; anti-tail, weird alloy, IAWN campaign 00:46:21 – Remote-viewing recap: thousands of probes, “sleepers,” super-intelligence controller 00:50:24 – Sleeper pods & humanoids; Star Trek “Nth Degree” tangent connects to AI ship 01:00:02 – 3I/Atlas tail reversal explained; CO₂ jet model; not a “simple comet” 01:04:21 – NASA/China rant: “look up, not down”; missed PR moment on comet 01:08:43 – Music bit redux; Battlefield-6 squad-up chatter; setting up calls 01:13:36 – Edgy “Jeopardy!” parody audio; open the phone lines 01:18:29 – Call-ins: new baby Oliver (G.I. Joe name), “Queen from beyond the grave,” Electric-Universe angle on 3I 01:22:24 – Drawbridge donations & Cave-of-Honor thanks; Discord shout-outs 01:27:10 – List: “most controversial Halloween costumes 2025” (Epstein list, ICE agent, etc.) 01:32:05 – Travel rant: WestJet to remove recline/charge for space; viewer reactions clip 01:43:48 – Ohio bill would ban AI personhood/marriages; liability stays with humans 01:48:18 – Halloween drinks & party trends; jello-syringe nostalgia; “candy economy” talk begins 01:53:08 – Candy searches: jello-syringe spikes; New Hampshire loves trick-or-treating 01:57:23 – Wrap-up: host's moon costume plan; thanks; “keep watching the skies” sign-off Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research ▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀ ► Website: http://obdmpod.com ► Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/obdmpod ► Full Videos at Odysee: https://odysee.com/@obdm:0 ► Twitter: https://twitter.com/obdmpod ► Instagram: obdmpod ► Email: ourbigdumbmouth at gmail ► RSS: http://ourbigdumbmouth.libsyn.com/rss ► iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/our-big-dumb-mouth/id261189509?mt=2  

INTRO (00:24): Kathleen opens the show drinking a Chilltown Crusher Pilsner from 902 Brewing Company, and reviews her weekend in Atlantic City at the Borgata.    TOUR NEWS: See Kathleen live on her “Day Drinking Tour.”   COURT NEWS (10:44): Kathleen shares news announcing that Stevie Nicks had a fantastic show in Atlantic City, Taylor Swift attended the Chiefs vs Raiders game, and Jelly Roll served as College Game Day's guest picker for the Georgia vs Ole Miss game.    TASTING MENU (2:26): Kathleen samples a Hershey's Zagnut Crunchy Peanut Butter bar, and Lay's Chesapeake Bay Crab Chips.    UPDATES (19:29): Kathleen shares updates on the Bill Belichick UNC drama, Sarah Ferguson is forced to relinquish her title, and Southwest Airlines unveils their new WILMA boarding process.    HOLY SHIT THEY FOUND IT (41:23): Kathleen reveals that an amateur treasure hunter discovered a 500-yr-old Royal pendant.    FRONT PAGE PUB NEWS (43:13): Kathleen shares articles on the last day of MTV, an 82-yr-old becomes the oldest to climb Everest, Canada's WestJet will charge passengers to recline, Prince Andrew gives up all his titles, the Eugenie crown jewels are stolen from the Louvre in Paris, a Picasso painting vanishes en route to an exhibition, Pope Leo is disbanding Opus Dei, and polar bears have taken over an abandoned research island in Russia.    SAINT OF THE WEEK (1:15:19): Kathleen reads about St. Cornelius, the patron saint of earaches, epilepsy, switching, cattle, and domestic animals.    WHAT ARE WE WATCHING (15:16): Kathleen recommends watching “Murdaugh: Death In The Family” on Hulu.    FEEL GOOD STORY (1:13:26): Kathleen shares a story about 2 beluga whales who finally found freedom in Iceland after being rescued from an aquarium in Shanghai. 

Shooting investigation underway at L.A. Academy Middle School in South L.A. The longest dinosaur tracks ever found were discovered in the U.K., while L.A. County residents are bracing for higher trash collection fees. Authorities say a high-tech Chinese crime ring was behind a fake toll-road text scam, and WestJet will now charge passengers extra if they want to recline their seats. 

Gary and Shannon pitch their new “vertical short” Space Wars before diving into #SWAMPWATCH, where they break down the latest out of D.C., including President Trump accusing TIME Magazine of digitally “disappearing” his hair. Shannon's directorial debut keeps the team distracted as #TerrorInTheSkies unfolds: an American Airlines flight forced to turn around after passengers reported a mysterious odor. Plus, WestJet plans to charge for reclining seats. Later, Parenting with Justin Worsham tackles whether we're creating struggles just to feel challenged, and why California might be forgetting its seniors.

The final inmate wanted after a brazen escape from a New Orleans jail in May has reportedly been arrested after a tense SWAT standoff in Atlanta. Canadian airline WestJet has introduced updated cabin interiors on select Boeing aircraft, adding three distinct seat classes and charging extra for seats that can recline. Florida man with thermos inserted in body caught sneaking it into Polk County Jail: ‘Put it up the exit ramp' In what is possibly the weirdest crossover between gaming, streaming, and the real world, Twitch streamer Fandy has taken “sharing everything with chat” to the absolute next level: she is live-streaming the birth process of her child. FOLLOW TNR ON RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/c-7759604 FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com #SEC #Alabama #Auburn #secfootball #collegefootball #cfb #cfp #football #sports #alabamafootball #alabamabasketball #auburnbasketball #auburnfootball #rolltide #wareagle #alabamacrimsontide #auburntigers #nfl #sportsnews #footballnews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duji wants to know who Rover had a meeting with. Bankruptcy box has a finish date. Is Krystle balding? Passengers will now be charged to recline their seat on WestJet's new Boeing 737 flights. Man punches the back of B2's seat on a flight. 

Duji wants to know who Rover had a meeting with. Bankruptcy box has a finish date. Is Krystle balding? Passengers will now be charged to recline their seat on WestJet's new Boeing 737 flights. A man punched the back of B2's seat on a flight. Are you dumber than Duji? Taylor Swift's latest album. A throuple have adopted a child. Ovaltine. The man who sparked the fire in the Palisades has been arrested. Police officer and his wife are found dead in a bathtub from heatstroke. Gia's cellphone causes tension between Rover and Duji. Hallmark Channel has 24 new Christmas movies coming out this year.

Duji wants to know who Rover had a meeting with. Bankruptcy box has a finish date. Is Krystle balding? Passengers will now be charged to recline their seat on WestJet's new Boeing 737 flights. A man punched the back of B2's seat on a flight. Are you dumber than Duji? Taylor Swift's latest album. A throuple have adopted a child. Ovaltine. The man who sparked the fire in the Palisades has been arrested. Police officer and his wife are found dead in a bathtub from heatstroke. Gia's cellphone causes tension between Rover and Duji. Hallmark Channel has 24 new Christmas movies coming out this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duji wants to know who Rover had a meeting with. Bankruptcy box has a finish date. Is Krystle balding? Passengers will now be charged to recline their seat on WestJet's new Boeing 737 flights. Man punches the back of B2's seat on a flight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WestJet budget airline will charge passengers for reclining in their seats. Oldest and most haunted Las Vegas hotel will pay you $5k to hunt for ghosts. Fed up single woman buys a billboard to find her future husband. // Weird AF News is the only daily weird news podcast in the world. Weird news 5 days/week and on Friday it's only Floridaman. SUPPORT by joining the Weird AF News Patreon http://patreon.com/weirdafnews - OR buy Jonesy a coffee at http://buymeacoffee.com/funnyjones Buy MERCH: https://weirdafnews.merchmake.com/ - Check out the official website https://WeirdAFnews.com and FOLLOW host Jonesy at http://instagram.com/funnyjones - wants Jonesy to come perform standup comedy in your city? Fill out the form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvYbm8Wgz3Oc2KSDg0-C6EtSlx369bvi7xdUpx_7UNGA_fIw/viewform

Canada Post is having an “existential crisis” (who isn't?) Westjet adds a new fee to flying but says it's all about “refreshing” our options. Teachers in Alberta are set to walk out. What do the teachers want? (When do they want it? Before Monday morning!) We've run out of ideas to end the tariffs so we're trying potato chip diplomacy. And there's a new way to track your kid and all you need is a screwdriver. Priyanka, Kris Siddiqi, and Alice Moran take this week's news quiz with host Gavin Crawford. We'd love to hear from you! Complete our listener survey here: https://cbc.ca/BecauseSurvey