Covid vaccine class action lawyer Jeff Rath lit a fire under a bunch of you during his August 28 appearance on the show, to say the least. Real Talkers Ron, Nat, Megan, Mike, MJ, and Gregory are all fired up in this week's edition of 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!

The future is now. The way we grow, purchase, and eat food could be drastically different in just a few years. Experts say the food-ag transition will be bigger than the global energy transition. What does that mean for you? For the environment? For the economy? 

2:20 | Isha Datar and Dr. Sean Yam join Ryan in studio for one of the most fascinating Real Talk Round Tables we've ever presented.

ISHA'S WORK: https://new-harvest.org/

SEAN'S WORK: https://gerber-rauth.com/

1:03:20 | Would you eat lab-grown meat? Ryan and Johnny debrief. 

1:07:20 | One of the NHL's most dynamic stars is dead, along with his brother, after the two were hit by a speeding vehicle while riding their bikes. The tragic passing of Johnny and Michael Gaudreau occurred just before their sister's wedding was to occur. Ryan, a big fan of "Johnny Hockey," shares a few thoughts.

1:18:30 | Covid vaccine class action lawyer Jeff Rath lit a fire under a bunch of you during his August 28 appearance on the show, to say the least. Real Talkers Ron, Nat, Megan, Mike, MJ, and Gregory are all fired up in this week's edition of 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, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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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.

Longtime talk radio host Charles Adler is headed to Ottawa to serve as a Senator, after being appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. It's an interesting situation, as Adler has long been critical of the Senate, calling for its abolition back in 2013. 

2:05 | We put Chuck's old tweets in front of him, and ask if he's changed his mind (you might be surprised at his answer). He tells us about his call with Trudeau and what his top priorities will be. Charles Adler is presented on Real Talk by Tice Automotive Consulting. 

BUYING A VEHICLE SHOULD BE FUN: https://www.ticeautomotive.com/

1:10:55 | Real Talker Ingrid had the time of her life in Paris at the Olympics. She shares why she thinks the Games are more important now than ever before. Positive Reflections is presented by Kuby Renewable Energy.

SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

BOOK A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON:   / 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.

Are you a conservative turned off by the current tone of the Conservative Party of Canada? Are you a liberal who just can't support the Justin Trudeau-led government anymore? Or maybe you're somebody who hasn't voted in past, but you would if there was a party that felt like a fit? We look at the Canadian Future Party - a new "centrist" party - in this edition of the Real Talk Round Table.  

2:40 | Interim leader Dominic Cardy, co-founder Rick Peterson, and party member Dicky Dikamba tell us why they started the party, how it differs from existing legacy parties, and how they intend to grow the grassroots. 

CHECK IT OUT: https://www.ourcanadianfuture.ca/

1:02:20 | Mike has a message for the "F Trudeau" crowd, Michael and Bob the Builder think Danielle Smith's out of line with the Provincial Priorities Act, dog lover Fiona says we need to crack down on dangerous canines, and Adam demands the right to purchase 4L milk jugs full of vodka for $49.95. It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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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.

How bad is foreign election interference in Canada? What are we learning from the inquiry underway in Ottawa? Do polls even matter 18 months out from an election? What does Anthony Housefather's decision to stay a Liberal MP say about the future of that party, if anything? And, is it possible Naheed Nenshi isn't the saviour many are saying he'll be for the Alberta NDP? 

5:15 | Political writer Evan Scrimshaw looks at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's testimony at the foreign interference inquiry, the latest federal polls (17:40), Housefather's decision to remain a Liberal following the Palestine statehood vote (26:00), Rachel Gilmore calling out Pierre Poilievre's communications team (34:45), and why Evan thinks Naheed Nenshi's Alberta NDP leadership campaign is "a sinking ship" (45:30). 

READ EVAN'S WORK: https://scrimshawunscripted.substack.com/

1:01:35 | Real Talker Wendy responds to Jen Gerson's April 9 appearance on the show, and tells us why she sold her car...for good.

NO MINIVAN? NO PROBLEM: https://youtu.be/4osV6Xy9Bys?si=5b94VXRPCPekxTdt

1:10:20 | Real Talker Jim from Vernon has a theory about why cancer rates are up around the world. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

1:14:20 | Real Talker AJ shares his powerful personal story about organ donation. 

EVENING OF HOPE - APRIL 20: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/evening-of-hope-tickets-797818335117?aff=efbevent

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g...

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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.

"I'll literally find that grease ball and hook a chain around his ankle and drag him behind my pickup truck," reads a post from Liam Brennan on an Osoyoos community social media page, referencing the BC town's CAO Rod Risling in the context of a property tax increase. The threat - far from the only one - forced Mayor Sue McKortoff to take action. You'll find out how she and her colleagues are bringing the whole province on board to address harassment and threats aimed at public officials. 

Stick around as we look at Alberta's latest threat to sue the feds (59:15), and what it means for you.

8:40 | Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff tells us about the specific death threat forced her hand, as the town lobbies other municipalities and the province to toughen up laws around harassment and abuse. 

44:25 | Join Ryan on Saturday, April 20 in Fort Saskatchewan at An Evening of HOPE! Funds raised at this gala fundraiser will benefit organ donor families, thanks to the great work by the Andy Polanski Charitable Foundation. 

TICKETS/INFORMATION: https://www.apcf.ca/

47:40 | Prompted by talk about organ donation, Ryan reads a powerful story submitted by Real Talker Lesley in NWT. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

56:35 | The only gay ski week in the Canadian Rockies kicks off April 12 in Jasper! We find out how some Jasper businesses are among the first in Canada to become Rainbow Registered in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. 

JASPER PRIDE: https://jasperpride.ca/

59:15 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she'll take Ottawa to court if the feds continue to strike big deals directly with municipalities. Ryan explains who could win here, why it's happening when it is, and ultimately who will be stuck with the tab. 

1:09:50 | Real Talker Colin has no time for Charles Adler's take on the two Cane Corsos that killed the boy in Edmonton on April 1. 

JEREMY ALLEN "GRIEF" INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/091222Allen

1:15:25 | Real Talker Jared follows up on a dog-related email he sent us in December 2023 with "a story of redemption and ruination." 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic

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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.

Justin Trudeau's said it a million times: eight out of ten Canadians receive more from the Canada Carbon Rebate than what they pay in carbon taxes. If that's true, why aren't more Canadians on board with the Liberal government's approach to climate action? Is it possible the rebate itself is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax? Political columnist Jen Gerson makes that argument in this super-sized episode of Real Talk. 

5:00 | But first...should parents be charged when their children commit heinous crimes? Ryan and Johnny take a look at sentencing hearings for James and Jennifer Crumbley, whose son Ethan killed four schoolmates in Oxford, Michigan in November 2021. 

9:50 | Real Talkers have a LOT to say about the tragic death of 11-year-old Kache Grist, who was killed by two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate. Ryan reads emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com. 

GO FUND ME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-costs-for-kache

29:20 | Jen Gerson tells us what prompted her to co-found The Line, one of Canada's most-read sources of online conservative commentary. She explains why she thinks the carbon tax rebate is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax (44:25), and gives us her take on Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's biggest mistake (1:25:20).  

READ THE LINE: https://www.readtheline.ca/p/jen-gerson-the-problem-with-the-carbon

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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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.

An 11-year-old boy is dead after two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate attacked him during a Spring Break visit. The dogs, subjects of two other police complaints in 2024 alone, were seized and euthanized. How should society handle tragedies like this? Ultimately, whose fault is it? And what does "justice" look like? 

3:45 | Charles Adler talks it out with Ryan and Johnny (all three of them dog owners), along with Real Talkers in our YouTube live chat. Later, we get into Donald Trump's communication technique (45:24) and Pierre Poilievre's unsolicited endorsement from Alex Jones (59:17). 

RYAN'S POLL RE: DOG ATTACKS: https://x.com/ryanjespersen/status/1777344036413841662

1:14:52 | This week's Positive Reflection presented by Kuby Energy comes courtesy Real Talker Cara. Who doesn't love a good water rescue? Thanks Cara!  

SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road!

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com

Within the next couple of years, people will be moving into new homes in the 100% Hydrogen-fuelled community of Bremner, just east of Edmonton. It'll be the first neighbourhood of its kind in North America. Planners are bullish, expecting close to 90,000 residents when it's all built out. 

Bigger picture, what does the future of home hydrogen look like? How is it different than natural gas? Is it actually a step toward sustainability? How do we know it's safe? Will hydrogen take jobs away from oil and gas workers? What about water impacts? Why not go with wind and solar? 

2:35 | ATCO's Greg Caldwell, Qualico's Brad Armstrong, and Gradient Thermal's Cameron Doepker discuss plans (and justification) for Bremner, and the future of hydrogen in Alberta and across the country.

ATCO: https://www.atco.com/en-ca.html

QUALICO: https://qualicocommunitiesedmonton.com/

GRADIENT THERMAL: https://www.gradientthermal.com/ 

1:05:38 | Real Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

How do the Feds plan to invest their way out of a housing crisis? What proof do we have the $10/day childcare program is paying off? What does the future of pharmacare look like in provinces saying "No thanks" to the proposed plan? And how can Canadians trust the government's procurement process after that $60M ArriveCAN app debacle? We check in with Hon. Anita Anand (34:10) in this episode of Real Talk. 

7:30 | But first...Ryan and Johnny talk get Real about their track record with dentist and doctor visits, Real Talker Sean says boo birds at the Flames game don't speak for all Calgarians (14:38), Real Talker Caroline has insights on politicians who swap values for power (20:23), and Real Talker Jake shares his informed take on Temporary Foreign Workers (28:23). 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com

34:10 | Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, joins us a few minutes ahead of a big pre-budget announcement in Calgary.

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

59:40 | Real Talker Lisa is married to an Alberta Sheriff. She tells us how they're feeling about a proposed Alberta Police Force. Real Talker Sunil fact checks Max Fawcett's March 28 comments about inflation (1:06:10). We revisit our fascinating conversation with Trina Moyles about the 2024 wildfire season (1:15:00), and hear from Real Talker Heather (1:21:38), who says she's just trying to keep her head above water re: politics and everything else! 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

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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.

Experts are predicting one of the worst wildfire seasons in Canadian history in 2024. We find out why (and what we can do about it) in this episode. But first, it's another scoop for Real Talk as NDP MLA David Shepherd tells us why he's endorsing "outsider" Naheed Nenshi as the next leader of the Alberta NDP, and sheds light on the personal health challenges that halted Shepherd's own plans to seek the NDP's top job. 

2:35 | The MLA for Edmonton-Centre makes his announcement in the Real Talk studio. 

41:20 | The responses to Ryan's tweet about Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek getting booed at a recent Flames game are...somethin' else. Jespo and Johnny take a quick look at some of the comments. 

52:50 | The Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon goes Saturday, April 27! We take a look at the myriad of options (5k, 10k, half marathon, and family fun run) and perks connected to this breathtaking annual tradition in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.

REGISTER: https://jaspercanadianrockieshalf.ca/

55:00 | Trina Moyles spent seven years working as a fire tower lookout in northwestern Alberta. She's the author of "Looking: Love, Solitude, and Searching for Wildfire in the Boreal Firest," and the cover feature "Alberta is Burning" in the April issue of Alberta Views. Trina takes us into the world of wildfires, and explains why this year could prove to be the worst on record. 

KNOCK 50% OFF A SUBSCRIPTION TO ALBERTA VIEWS WITH THE PROMO CODE "AVRJ" -- https://albertaviews.ca/

DR. MIKE FLANNAGAN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/bsYbKigZWXc?si=9v7F2h2eQllL3p7L&t=400

KYLE BRITTAIN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/B4MdnTYb4ik?si=mOT7cbzdFOEaeZLb&t=160

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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 rough reception for Mayor Jyoti Gondek, booed during an appearance at centre ice during the Calgary Flames South Asian Celebration game. It's the latest challenge for Gondek, whose popularity has taken a significant hit in recent months, as evidenced by the recall petition we discussed during our March 25, 2024 episode. 

5:30 | What does the heckling say about Calgarians, or even Canadians...if anything? Charles Adler gives us his take on this story, along with an update on the Danielle Smith/Steven Guilbeault spat, and an infamous five year anniversary of an interview that changed the course of Ryan and Chuck's careers. 

46:40 | Is Ottawa ignoring a big opportunity for Canadian LNG exports? Alberta Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Shauna Feth lays out the business implications of a recent visit by the Greek PM, changes to the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap, the carbon tax increase, the Temporary Foreign Worker program, Pharmacare, and more.

UPCOMING JOB FAIRS: https://www.abchamber.ca/alberta-hiring-opportunities/

TALENT DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/

ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY: https://rtrj.info/040224ACCABPerspectives

1:24:25 | Shout out to Donna Jean Wilde! The 58 year old Magrath, AB resident broke the Guinness World Record for longest time in an abdominal plank (female), holding the gut-busting fitness pose for just over four and a half hours! How could we not feature her incredible accomplishment in this week's Positive Reflections presented by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy?! 

SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Merrick's miffed about paying too much for gas, Wendy's not sure about Adler's take on science, Gerald says Pierre Poilievre is hardly a genius on Bitcoin, and Jill doesn't GAF if you don't like her store's Pride display. They've all fired up The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the DQs in Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com

When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you!

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 

4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). 

READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/

1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race.

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property.

1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. 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, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 

4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). 

READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/

1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race.

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property.

1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. 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, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

Were you shocked to see Rakhi Pancholi pull out of the Alberta NDP leadership race with three months to go? (We were!) Many people saw the popular Edmonton MLA as a legitimate successor to Rachel Notley, and a formidable candidate to be the next Premier of Alberta. So, what's up? 

3:49 | Rakhi tells us when and why she decided to leave the leadership race and endorse Naheed Nenshi. 

21:54 | First responders out of Edmonton have been equipping Ukrainian firefighters in proper PPE, and training them in tactical combat casualty care. Firefighter Aid Ukraine's Kevin Royle checks in live from Ukraine, and Nikki Booth joins from Edmonton, for an update on the group's work in one of the world's hardest-hit war zones. 

SUPPORT FIREFIGHTER AID UKRAINE: https://www.firefighteraidukraine.com/

35:45 | We love when you share your #MyJasper Memories with us! That's what the Whidden family did, telling us all about their trip to Jasper National Park. (We love their family tradition "Animal Bingo"!) Plus, the Jasper Pride & Ski Festival is just weeks away - we cover it all, courtesy of our friends at Tourism Jasper. 

FESTIVAL DETAILS: https://jasperpride.ca/

38:48 | APTN journalist Danielle Paradis tells us about her assignment covering the impacts of climate change in Canada's high arctic, resulting in the six-part podcast series The Place That Thaws. 

CHECK OUT THE PLACE THAT THAWS: https://www.aptnnews.ca/ourstories/theplacethatthaws/

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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Gil's in, and Rakhi's out. On an eventful day in the Alberta NDP leadership race, we find out why the president of the Alberta Federation of Labour figures he's the best best to return the NDP to power.

2:00 | But first...Rakhi Pancholi's out of the NDP leadership race, withdrawing and endorsing Naheed Nenshi just moments before we record this episode. Ryan offers some initial thoughts (more at 1:01:50). 

3:40 | Gil McGowan tells us why he might be the next Peter Lougheed (!), and why he thinks the NDP lost the most recent provincial election. Speaking with Ryan an hour before officially launching his campaign, Gil gives us a few scoops on his plans for Alberta's energy industry, electricity grid, insurance, and more. 

CHECK OUT GIL'S CAMPAIGN: https://gilforalberta.ca/

1:01:50 | Ryan and Johnny discuss Rakhi Pancholi's departure from the NDP leadership race, and get into the YouTube Live comments.

1:22:45 | We're all horrified by the Baltimore bridge collapse. Ryan and Johnny take a look at the video footage and some of the early reports. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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.

Landon Johnston thinks Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's doing such a lousy job, he organizes a petition to recall her from office. Instead of ignoring the petition, which is unlikely to succeed, Gondek invites Johnston to sit down one-on-one at City Hall and discuss his concerns. What was said during their brief meeting, and where do both parties go from here? 

2:55 | Mayor Gondek tells us what she and Johnston discussed, how she's responding, and how the recall petition has impacted her personally and politically. 

36:00 | Charles Adler tells us about receiving the key to the City of Toronto, then tells us what he thinks about Mayor Gondek meeting with the guy who wants her run out of office. Chuck and Ryan discuss Donald Trump's half-a-billion-dollar legal woes, and horrific famine conditions in Gaza. 

1:29:55 | We LOVE follow-up stories with happy endings! This week's Positive Reflection is submitted by Lew, who joined us on the show just over a year ago to talk about his journey with homelessness and addiction. We guarantee you'll be moved by his update. 

WATCH LEW'S DEC. 21, 2022 INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/122122Lew

SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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 edition of The Flamethrower is a healthy mix of love letters and hate mail based on our recent Justin Trudeau and Danielle Smith interviews. Enjoy, courtesy of our friends at The Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com

Have you been paying attention to what's going on in Alberta? Premier Danielle Smith's government is kinda sorta rolling out a provincial police force, and paving the way for municipal political parties. But is that what's best for Albertans? 

4:10 | Alberta Municipalities president Tyler Gandam and director Tanya Thorn shoot straight on the proposed provincial police force, Alberta's crumbling infrastructure, and the plan to infuse a party system into municipal politics. 

CHECK OUT ALBERTA MUNICIPALITIES: https://www.abmunis.ca/

1:23:05 | This edition of The Flamethrower is a healthy mix of love letters and hate mail based on our recent Justin Trudeau and Danielle Smith interviews. Enjoy, courtesy of our friends at The Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! 

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

GET A PAIR OF FREE REAL TALK SOCKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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 there anything more important to human survival than water? Water is everything - without it, ecosystems, industry, and individuals would die. So, why don't we talk about it more? In this episode of Real Talk, we examine the past, present, and future of water use (and conservation) in our own backyards and beyond.

2:45 | Canadians are bracing for the worst drought we've seen in 50 years. We've seen "100 year floods" more than once over the last decade. There are more draws on our water resources than ever before. Are we setting ourselves up for catastrophe? Dr. Mark Summers, Dr. Scott Ketcheson, and Andre Asselin join our Real Talk Round Table: World Water Day edition. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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.

Leaked documents show a direct link between Take Back Alberta, the Recall Gondek campaign, and the push for municipal political parties in Alberta. What does it mean for you? We dig into it in this episode of Real Talk. 

3:10 | Political scientist Dr. Duane Bratt connects the dots on our top story, then breaks down the NDP leadership race in light of Gil McGowan's pending announcement, and discusses MP Anthony Housefather's future with the federal Liberals after the Palestine vote.

CHECK OUT ART IS...SNEAKERHEAD EDITION (MARCH 23) -- https://momentsbymorrel.com/product/art-is/

1:03:00 | The Jasper SkyTram opens Friday, March 22! You've got to see this drone-captured video from our friends at Tourism Jasper in #MyJasper Memories.

CHECK OUT THE SKYTRAM: https://www.jasperskytram.com/

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

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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.

Should prostitution be outlawed in Canada? Canadians are split on the issue: some believe sex work should be legalized, regulated, and taxed, while others say it's exploitation, and it needs to be stopped. Andrea Heinz sold sex for seven years before going in a completely different direction. Today, she's an author, filmmaker, and activist against sexual exploitation. 

2:25 | Andrea explains how she got into and out of the sex trade, what fuels her activism, and what she'd like to see lawmakers do about the sex trade in Canada.

ANDREA'S BOOK: https://www.whenmenbuysex.ca/

Follow Andrea on Twitter: @heinzsight2020 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

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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 go behind the scenes at the Paris Olympics with photojournalists Leah Hennel and Candice Ward! 

2:15 | Leah's still in Paris. Candice just returned home to Las Vegas. The award-winning photographers tell us what it was like to shoot the world's best athletes on the world's biggest stage. 

FOLLOW LEAH: https://www.instagram.com/leahhennelphoto FOLLOW CANDICE: https://www.instagram.com/candicewardphotography

46:15 | Displaced Jasper residents begin returning home this weekend. Ryan shares a few thoughts, and an email from Real Talker Jonny about the future of forest fires.  

WATCH THAT TED TALK: https://youtu.be/edDZNkm8Mas?si=bCfj0-C6Ox52sCKp&t=1

54:00 | Merrick's miffed about paying too much for gas, Wendy's not sure about Adler's take on science, Gerald says Pierre Poilievre is hardly a genius on Bitcoin, and Jill doesn't GAF if you don't like her store's Pride display. They've all fired up The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the DQs in Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! 

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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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 wants BC Premier David Eby to join his fight against the carbon tax. Eby declines, citing Poilievre's "bologna politics". Poilievre fires back, suggesting Eby doesn't understand British Columbians can't even afford bologna. (No matter how you feel about bologna, you've gotta love the word play...)

3:03 | We ask Charles Adler if Poilievre can convince the public he's Canada's top poverty fighter - hasn't that been the NDP's whole schtick? But we lead off with the story of a woman scoffing at the "true North strong and free" O Canada lyric during a recent NHL game. What's with the "Freedom fighter" movement these days? Grifters like Jamie Sale and Theo Fleury are still at it...but what freedoms are they being denied? Oh, and was anybody else surprised the Prime Minister told a Radio-Canada reporter he thinks about quitting every day? Could there be political ramifications for such an off-the-cuff comment? 

48:30 | Erin Davis joins us in studio just hours after returning from New York City, where she served as a delegate at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. Don't miss her reality check on how extreme poverty continues to pin down 10% of the world's women and girls. Erin also shares her thoughts on DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) efforts here at home - the hits and the misses. 

ERIN'S WORK: https://www.erindavisco.ca/

RYAN'S 2008 ETHIOPIA MINISERIES: https://rtrj.info/2009WomenandWealth

1:27:55 | "Grace, Forgiveness, and Hope." Ryan's dad - Dr. Bruce Jespersen - shares a perspective on a very tough subject we thought you'd appreciate in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. 

SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

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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.

Inspired by Edify's annual Best Restaurants issue, we talk about the business of food in this episode of Real Talk. What's the secret to creating an iconic dish? How have customers changed, post-pandemic? Does Instagram influence menu and restaurant design? How do you navigate labour and supply uncertainty? Will restaurants still be around in 50 years? 

2:32 | Miles Quon from legendary Chinese restaurant The Lingnan, Ben Staley from sister restaurants Dorinku Tokyo and Dorinku Osaka, and Tyler Sorochan from (the wood-fired) Barbacoa steakhouse take us behind the scenes and share the secrets to their success.

GET TICKETS FOR APRIL 8: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/best-restaurants-2024/

1:02:52 | Kyle's sick of "Liberal and lefty lies," Randi's spittin' truth about healthcare in BC, "Grumpy Canadian" is fed up lab services in Alberta, and Erin has a strongly-worded message for Anglophones in Canada - it's The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the Dairy Queens 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, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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GET YOUR FREE REAL TALK SOCKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Inspired by Edify's annual Best Restaurants issue, we talk about the business of food in this episode of Real Talk. What's the secret to creating an iconic dish? How have customers changed, post-pandemic? Does Instagram influence menu and restaurant design? How do you navigate labour and supply uncertainty? Will restaurants still be around in 50 years? 

2:32 | Miles Quon from legendary Chinese restaurant The Lingnan, Ben Staley from sister restaurants Dorinku Tokyo and Dorinku Osaka, and Tyler Sorochan from (the wood-fired) Barbacoa steakhouse take us behind the scenes and share the secrets to their success.

GET TICKETS FOR APRIL 8: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/best-restaurants-2024/

1:02:52 | Kyle's sick of "Liberal and lefty lies," Randi's spittin' truth about healthcare in BC, "Grumpy Canadian" is fed up lab services in Alberta, and Erin has a strongly-worded message for Anglophones in Canada - it's The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the Dairy Queens 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, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

GET YOUR FREE REAL TALK SOCKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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 Premier Danielle Smith joins us in the Real Talk studio just hours after meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 

1:37 | What did the PM say when Smith asked him to fire Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault? Did they make any progress on pharmacare? What's Premier Smith's response to Naheed Nenshi calling her "immoral"? Why didn't her government work harder to keep its promise on income tax cuts? What's the UCP's plan to clean up Alberta's abandoned wells? What's up with continued coal mining in the Rockies? Is Premier Smith concerned about the Red Deer Catholic School board banning pronouns in emails and Pride flags? And, what did she say to set Take Back Alberta's David Parker straight? Danielle Smith takes our questions - and yours - during a half hour interview. 

38:21 | Political columnist Graham Thomson and former Calgary councillor Jeromy Farkas fact check our interview with Premier Smith, and tell us what most resonated with them. 

1:19:05 | Is there still a stigma around skilled trades? Ryan and Johnny get into a couple emails after our March 13 conversation about post-secondary education and career paths. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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 not exaggerating when we claim the most engaged talk show audience in the country. Every day, hundreds if not thousands of you comment on our YouTube episodes, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok posts, not to mention the mountain of emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com. Look no further than today's episode. We asked you to send us your questions for Premier Danielle Smith, and did you ever deliver! You've got a front row seat as we open up our inbox for a look at what matters most to Albertans right now. 

9:55 | But first...Naheed Nenshi pulled no punches during his March 12 appearance on Real Talk. Ryan takes a look at what the former Calgary mayor's critics have to say in our Instagram comments.

23:30 | Charles Adler called the Alberta NDP "soft" during our March 12 episode. Is he right? 

30:05 | Did you check out our March 7 episode about "wokeness" in Canada with Eric Kaufmann and Chief Allan Adam? Ryan reads a couple emails taking issue with the conversation around residential schools. 

WATCH THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/030724Kaufmann

38:20 | We've got hundreds of messages to choose from, after a whole bunch of you answered the bell and emailed your questions for Premier Danielle Smith. What a great opportunity to truly understand the issues that matter most to so many of you. Ryan and Johnny open up the Real Talk inbox...

EMAIL US: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

57:35 | Ryan shares some personal memories from his family's recent getaway to Jasper. #MyJasper Memories is presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper every Wednesday on Real Talk! 

VENTURE BEYOND: https://www.jasper.travel/

1:24:15 | Our friends at Lady Wood want to send you and your ladies to the Real Talk Golf Classic! Ryan shares details on how you and your ladies can win your way into The Ranch G&CC on Thursday, June 20.

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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.

"Incompetent, immoral, and dangerous." There's no room for misinterpreting how Naheed Nenshi feels about Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and her UCP government. The former Calgary mayor launched his Alberta NDP leadership campaign with an indictment of Smith's performance (and integrity) - will NDP supporters see him as the best bet to win the next election? 

2:40 | Charles Adler tells us why he thinks Nenshi's candidacy is "the most fascinating political story in Canada."

35:40 | (The bilingual) Naheed Nenshi tells us why he thinks the NDP lost the election in May 2023, whether the party needs a rebrand, what he makes of "damaged goods" criticism in Calgary, how he'd win over rural voters, and what he'd do for small business. 

CHECK OUT HIS CAMPAIGN: https://nenshi.ca/

1:04:42 | We laughed out loud when Stephen sent us this video of a black bear taking a soak! It's a perfect fit for Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. 

SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com

GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/

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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.

Gerald's arguing for safe supply, police officer Anton sees a role for "involuntary" drug treatment, Ben says Big Oil's not pulling its weight, and Kat says Alberta needs to get serious about health supports: it's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!

Fire up your Flamethrower: talk@ryanjespersen.com

ACTION! Our International Women's Day Real Talk Round Table looks at the past, present, and future of women in the workforce and society at large. Where are we seeing progress? Where are we spinning our tires? What issues are girls and young women facing today, and how does that compare to generations previous? 

1:50 | Jana Pruden, Margo Long, and Julie Savard-Shaw tell us where their focus is on International Women's Day 2024. 

JANA'S IWD FEATURE: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-meet-the-queens-of-the-gilded-age-who-pioneered-womens-journalism-in/

CANADIAN PROSPERITY PROJECT: https://canadianprosperityproject.ca/

YESS: https://yess.org/

59:16 | Gerald's arguing for safe supply, police officer Anton sees a role for "involuntary" drug treatment, Ben says Big Oil's not pulling its weight, and Kat says Alberta needs to get serious about health supports: it's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens 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, tell 'em Real Talk sent you! 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Are you "woke"? Do you describe people who think differently than you as "woke"? Would you characterize Canadian politics and society as "woke"? In this episode of Real Talk, we take a look at new research on the supercharged phrase that was once applied as a badge of honour - now, not so much - and where Canadians actually stand on so-called "culture war" issues.

4:25 | University of Buckingham politics professor Eric Kaufmann takes us into his research: "The Politics of Culture Wars in Contemporary Canada". 

READ MORE: https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/politics-of-culture-wars-canada/

37:38 | The Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation is taking the Alberta Energy Regulator to court, after the AER failed to notify the First Nation about a toxic tailings pond leak for nearly a year. Chief Allan Adam tells us what led to the Statement of Claim, how Imperial Oil and the Alberta government fits into the story, and what other legal action he's considering.

CHIEF ADAM on REAL TALK April 2021: https://rtrj.info/042821Adam

CHIEF ADAM on REAL TALK March 2023: https://rtrj.info/030623Adam

1:15:10 | Real Talker Gillian says Calgary Pride banning all political parties from their parade is a win for The Right. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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.

Nobody will be surprised to learn Alberta and Ottawa are at odds again. This time, it's over the funding and management of Pharmacare. Alberta was the first province to publicly decline the federal government's proposal for a national program...but is that actually a good move for everyday Albertans? 

4:15 | Dr. Rupider Toor explains why she thinks Alberta should sign on to the national Pharmacare plan. 

DR. TOOR'S PREVIOUS REAL TALK INTERVIEW: rtrj.info/081723Toor 

PROJECT EMPOWHER: https://projectempowher.ca/

26:25 | Take Back Alberta founder David Parker says he's seen the light. He says, after speaking with Premier Danielle Smith, he's done with vicious online attacks against his political opponents. Do you buy it? Does it matter? 

37:15 | We had a big response to our March 6 episode about harm reduction with Euan Thomson and Anthony Furey. Ryan and Johnny discuss. 

42:00 | Real Talker Emily gives us the goods re: how she feels about a national Pharmacare plan. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

44:30 | It's DUMPING snow in Jasper right now! We show off a few photos of the brand new Knob Quad Chair at Marmot Basin and tee up the spring social schedule on the mountain in #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.

LEARN MORE: https://www.skimarmot.com/

47:30 | Johnny's been riding the bus to work for a while now, and says it's not the experience he was expecting. His comments lead to a bigger conversation about social supports, and a reference tto our interview with Guy Felicella and Dr. Andrea Sereda.

GUY FELICELLA ON REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/051723Felicella

1:03:30 | We've got an update to the story of that tailings pond leak contaminating the land and water near the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. 

1:05:15 | We remember Kyle Dube.

WATCH OUR DUBE INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/040623Dube

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

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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's government plans to knock down the former Royal Alberta Museum, replacing the magnificent Manitoba Tyndall stone structure with (more) green space. Many prominent Albertans are speaking out against the plan, including architect Vivian Manasc, who says the UCP is about to make a huge mistake. 

3:00 | Vivian explains what makes the former RAM so special, and how it might be reimagined. Plus, we discuss the bigger picture - why do we knock down so many of our historic buildings? 

CHECK OUT VIVIAN'S WORK: https://reimagine.ca/

36:20 | Ryan and Johnny talk about the choice to build the Real Talk studio in the historic Mercer Warehouse. 

41:40 | A bunch of Real Talkers feel like they're not getting a fair shake in our coverage of the COVID vaccine, vaccine injuries, and the politics behind it all. Ryan speaks directly to some of the feedback we received after our August 13, 2024 interview with Professor Tim Caulfield, and reads emails from Gerald and Touring Zebra. 

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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 wrong with rehab? After all, isn't getting people "clean" an obvious solution to Canada's opioid crisis? As the Alberta government heavily invests in drug treatment facilities (at the expense of Supervised Consumption Sites), we take a look at what's working and what's not in addressing a health crisis claiming 21 lives every day across the country. 

3:25 | Euan Thomson and Anthony Furey discuss Euan's feature in the March issue of Alberta Views and debate different approaches to the opioid crisis across Canada.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH REHAB: https://albertaviews.ca/whats-wrong-with-rehab/

SAVE 50% on a subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/subscribe/

EACH AND EVERY: https://www.eachandevery.org/

35:00 | The Discourse co-hosts Erika Barootes and Cheryl Oates give us their take on Anthony and Euan's debate about the drug crisis. Plus, we get into Alberta Budget 2024, the national Pharmacare plan, the ArriveCAN debacle, and more. 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE: https://www.youtube.com/@UC1WjKtBGH6U0S6HDePuLjkw 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 

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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.

Have you seen the job posting on LinkedIn for president and CEO of the CBC? We can't help but wonder if it might be a perfect fit for our pal Charles Adler. We ask him about that - plus other, more serious subject matter - in this informative and elucidating episode of Real Talk. 

3:50 | Adler explains why he's wearing sunglasses inside, what he doesn't love about the Alberta budget, when he'll apply to be the next CEO of CBC, and what he'll be looking for in President Joe Biden's State of the Union address.

48:30 | Business owners: what does the Alberta budget mean for you? Shauna Feth, CEO of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce, digs into the details. 

SKILL UP: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/

POLITICAL ACTION DAY: https://www.abchamber.ca/event/2024-political-action-day-mla-dinner/

1:13:55 | 

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The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talkers are fired up about the Alberta budget, our Trudeau interview, our Black History Month Round Table, skilled labour shortages, and Ryan's "blind, biased support of Pierre Poilievre" (LOL). It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!

Everybody's got their own interpretation of a provincial budget. There's a long list of communities, projects, and organizations deserving of big investments. And, inevitably, there's a long list of communities, projects, and organizations that won't wind up with the cash they say they need. In this episode, we lay out the implications of the 2024 Alberta Budget and attempt to answer one Real Talker's astute question posted in our live chat: "I'm confused...is Alberta rich or poor?" 

2:30 | Edmonton Chamber of Commerce CEO Doug Griffiths and Edmonton Downtown Business Association CEO Puneeta McBryan dig into the budget, from the top headlines to the storylines flying under the radar. 

CHECK OUT THE CHAMBER: https://www.edmontonchamber.com/

CHECK OUT THE DBA: https://www.edmontondowntown.com/

16:29 | Alberta's Minister of Finance Nate Horner gives us the government's explanation for a delay in income tax cuts, minimal infrastructure funding for cities, a new EV tax, disparity in funding for Calgary vs. Edmonton, and public safety issues. 

56:50 | Real Talkers are fired up about the Alberta budget, our Trudeau interview, our Black History Month Round Table, skilled labour shortages, and Ryan's "blind, biased support of Pierre Poilievre" (LOL). It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! 

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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.

Sarah Lawrynuik's coverage of Russia's war in Ukraine is personal. Her family's from there. She's been there multiple times over the past two years, covering the conflict as a freelance journalist. She can't ignore what she's seen since she last joined us in March of 2023. The country is battered, its people demoralized. The death toll - children included - is unimaginable. How much longer can Ukraine defend itself? 

2:04 | Sarah joins us live from London, days after returning from Ukraine.

SARAH'S AUDIO DOC: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-63-the-current/clip/16045850-the-next-war-sexual-violence-ukraine

SARAH'S FIRST REAL TALK INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/030323Sarah

35:30 | Real Talkers Gabriel, Kristie, Ronnie, and Gerald have a lot to say about our recent shows featuring Jodi Calahoo Stonehouse, the Danger Cats comedy show cancellation, and oil sands innovator Kevin Krausert. 

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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.

Jodi Calahoo Stonehouse isn't your average politician. She says what she really thinks, she's not afraid to rattle a few cages, and her energy is off the charts. Despite her relative inexperience in the Legislature (she was elected in May 2023), Calahoo Stonehouse is vying for the leadership of the Alberta NDP. Does she have what it takes as an underdog to emerge victorious? 

2:10 | The MLA from Edmonton-Rutherford tells us all about her vision for Alberta. 

CHECK OUT JODI'S CAMPAIGN: https://voteforjodi.ca/

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

48:37 | Did you see Jasper featured on The Bachelor on February 26? We dedicate this week's #MyJasper Memories to the hit ABC series touching down in the Rocky Mountains, and look ahead to the upcoming Oilers 50/50 in support of Jasper charities.

54:10 | Ryan takes a look at new polling on a proposed Alberta Pension Plan.

57:10 | Everybody's talking about Jon Stewart's tribute to his dog. Have you seen Jimmy Stewart's similar appearance on The Tonight Show way back when? Ryan and Johnny talk pets.

1:04:00 | Premier Danielle Smith's responding to Take Back Alberta founder David Parker's social media attack on Pierre Poilievre. Ryan updates the story. 

1:12:10 | Have you heard about the Danger Cats comedy group's shows getting cancelled? Ryan and Johnny talk about free speech, good taste, comedic license, and capitalism. 

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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.

Not everybody agrees with what Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had to say about Canada's oil and gas sector during his February 21 interview on Real Talk. That includes former roughneck-turned-chief executive Kevin Krausert. Named a "Top 50 Global Changemaker Working in Canada" by the Globe & Mail in 2023, Krausert says traditional oil and gas companies do care about sustainability, and the environment, and a bright future for their workers.

6:05 | Kevin tells us what he thinks PMJT got wrong on Real Talk, and explains how his company is unlocking energy transition solutions in oil and gas for investment, commercialization, and scale. 

LEARN MORE: https://www.avatarinnovations.energy/

MINISTERS GUILBEAULT & BOISSONNAULT ON REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/120723rewind

51:00 | Ryan and Johnny shout out Real Talkers Garth and Graham for their Super Chat contributions, and Ryan reads an email from Real Talker Carrie, who tells us why she signed up to support the show on Patreon (she makes a great point!). 

54:50 | Shameless name drop from Ryan, who tells a quick story about his dinner date with a national news personality. 

57:40 | Real Talkers Michael, Ken, and Randi tell us what the PMJT interview got them thinking about. 

EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

1:05:00 | Remember our episode about that Saskatchewan family that found the big, unopened box of hockey cards? Johnny has an update for us! 

HOCKEY CARDS WORTH MILLIONS: https://rtrj.info/013024rewins

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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 see David Parker's Twitter attack targeting Pierre Poilievre, his wife Anaida, and his advisor Jenni Byrne? The Take Back Alberta founder got personal, all but declaring war against the federal Conservative leader. What's Parker's end game? Is this a fight he can possibly win, or does the attack mark the beginning of the end of his group's influence? We discuss in this episode of Real Talk. 

4:38 | Charles Adler tells us which part of our Trudeau interview most resonated with him, whether or not he thinks David Parker's days of influence are numbered, and what he makes of Westlock, Alberta residents voting to ban Pride flags in public spaces. 

49:10 | Ryan reads more of your emails about our Trudeau exclusive.

53:25 | Real Talker Elaine is a paramedic working exclusively with Edmonton's homeless population. Ryan reads her powerful email responding to our February 23 Real Talk Round Table. 

WATCH THAT EPISODE: rtrj.info/022324RTRT

1:06:35 | Ryan pens a love letter to Northern Chicken in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. 

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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.

On the heels of our exclusive interview with the Prime Minister, it's an all-Justin Trudeau edition of The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com

VISIT THE DQs in PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, and BASELINE ROAD!

More than 300,000 Canadians will experience homelessness this year. More than 300 people will die on the street this year in Edmonton alone. Why haven't we been able to solve this national disaster? 

2:07 | Tim Richter, Jordan Reiniger, Dr. Monty Ghosh, and Peggy Garritty talk solutions around our Real Talk Round Table. 

CHECK OUT THE CHANCELLOR'S FORUM: https://rtrj.info/02224CF

CDN. ALLIANCE to END HOMELESSNESS: https://caeh.ca/

BOYLE STREET COMMUNITY SERVICES: https://www.boylestreet.org/

1:06:55 | Ryan and Johnny recap a wild week on the show, including some of the most hilarious chirps from our loudest critics. 

1:18:19 | On the heels of our exclusive sit-down with the Prime Minister, it's an all-Justin Trudeau edition of The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! 

FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

VISIT THE DQs in PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, and BASELINE ROAD! 

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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 will allow hunters to target "problem" Grizzly bears that have shown aggression to humans or livestock. The controversial changes to the Wildlife Act have prompted loud public outcry, but is everybody with an opinion truly informed? 

3:15 | Mark Hall says the Alberta government is making the right move with "problem" bears. The Blood Origins Canada director and podcast host makes his argument. 

CHECK OUT THE HUNTER CONSERVATIONIST PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/albertas-grizzly-debate-take-action/id1470798531?i=1000663590244

42:10 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after hearing Mark out. 

55:20 | Rumour is the Edmonton Elks' new owner may change the team's name back to the Eskimos. Could it be? 

1:02:35 | We LOVE this email from Real Talker Patrick, who had the time of his life at Punk in Drublic. He shares a couple great stories and a few backstage photos with the boys from NOFX.

1:06:35 | Which investment's been better over the past year or so - Bitcoin or the S&P 500? Our pal Corey Hogan crunched the numbers. You might be surprised! 

*Don't EVER take financial advice from us.*

1:10:20 | "Buy the damn LEGO, Johnny!" Ryan reads a great email from Real Talker Fiona.

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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.

Beta Cuck, Libtard, Groomer, and Enemy of the State are just a handful of the wonderful comments we've received after our exclusive interview with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. (Welcome, to all our new fans!)

0:25 | Ryan recaps some of the best feedback from around the world (did you hear Infowars host Alex Jones wrote about the interview on his blog?). 

18:40 | Political scientist Dr. Feo Snagovsky tells Ryan what he would have done differently in the Trudeau interview, analyzes Premier Danielle Smith's televised address ahead of the provincial budget, and digs into new polling on the UCP's plan for pronouns and puberty blockers.

READ MORE: https://cground.substack.com/p/c2328614-b688-41cc-8b22-545c014065aa

AND MORE: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/226gdemhv730w0po9a0ol/Polarization-and-Conspiracy-Theories.pdf?rlkey=d05rdc7nrclzmhc5zyvkhrhr4&e=1&dl=0

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The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visits the Real Talk studio for an exclusive half-hour interview.

1:50 | Trudeau gets real about his record low polling numbers, his future as Liberal leader, the future of the carbon tax, his polarizing Environment Minister, selling the Trans Mountain pipeline, the 2024 US Presidential election, the state of journalism in Canada, and more. 

37:00 | Ryan and Johnny debrief after the interview, including comments from our YouTube live chat. 

55:40 | Will the (other) Bachelor find true love in Jasper? We tee up the upcoming episode of The Bachelor (Monday, February 26 on ABC) featuring the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. 

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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.

World leaders are denouncing the suspicious passing of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, one of Vladimir Putin's loudest critics, dead at 47 while being held in an Arctic prison. What should Canadians take from this story? Why should we care? 

2:36 | Charles Adler opens with the story of a Canadian family that moved to Russia to escape a "gay dictatorship" before putting Alexei Navalny's death (and Tucker Carlson's response) into perspective. Then, Chuck explains his comments on Pierre Poilievre as a "religious hustler," and gives us his take on the proposed divorce between the Alberta and federal NDP. 

58:52 | When worlds collide: (human) Ob-Gyns save the lives of a gorilla and her newborn in one of the coolest Positive Reflections we've featured in a long time! 

SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com 

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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.