Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Ship of Fools Podcast with host Steven Malkowich

What were British Columbians really thinking before the 2026 elections — and what can the results tell us about the public mood?

With the BC Conservatives projected to form a majority government and Vancouver electing a new mayor, British Columbia's political landscape has changed dramatically.

Before the votes were cast, Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. and one of BC's best-known pollsters, joined Steven Malkowich on Ship of Fools for a candid conversation about political polling, voter behaviour, affordability and what politicians may be missing.

Mario takes us behind the numbers to explore:

• Can election polls be trusted? How polling works and why results can be misleading.

• What voters say vs. what they do: Why undecided voters can change the political picture.

• Political promises and manufactured narratives: When campaigns make claims the research doesn't support.

• Vancouver and Surrey politics: Voter turnout, fragmented races and what municipal leaders can actually deliver.

• BC's affordability crisis: Housing, the cost of living and the contradiction between wanting cheaper homes and protecting property values.

• Health care and childcare: What public-opinion research reveals about changing priorities.

Mario also shares surprising stories from his career, including a company that wanted polling results to support a claim it had already decided to make.

It's an insightful, occasionally humorous conversation about the people behind the polls, what Canadians really think and the issues shaping British Columbia.

Recording note: This conversation was recorded before the October 17 municipal elections and October 24 provincial election. The discussion reflects the pre-election political landscape, not a post-election analysis.

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New conversations every week exploring BC politics, Canadian life, culture, comedy and the people behind the headlines.

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Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shipoffoolspodcast

Learn more about Mario Canseco and Research Co.: https://researchco.ca/

Can people still afford to live in B.C. — and what would actually make housing cheaper?

UBC Sauder economist Thomas Davidoff joins Steven Malkowich for a straight-talking conversation about why housing costs so much, what really drives prices, and the trade-offs nobody likes to talk about.

They get into land costs, zoning, housing supply, mortgage rates, immigration, foreign investment, property taxes and whether building more homes actually improves affordability. Pasted text

Thomas also tackles some of the questions people really want answered: Could B.C. home prices fall substantially? Has slower population growth helped bring rents and prices down? Who loses when housing becomes cheaper? And will younger generations still be able to own a home here? Pasted text

Thomas holds the Stanley Hamilton Professorship in Real Estate Finance at UBC Sauder and directs the UBC Centre for Urban Economics and Real Estate.

This is the first episode in a new Ship of Fools series focused on the issues people in B.C. actually care about.

Can I even live here anymore?

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Where Wit Meets Wisdom

Is AI going to wreck society — or are we getting ahead of ourselves?

Dr. Vered Shwartz, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at UBC and a CIFAR AI Chair at the Vector Institute, joins Steven Malkowich on Ship of Fools for a plain-language conversation about where artificial intelligence is heading and how much we should trust it.

Vered’s research focuses on large language models, natural language processing, AI persuasion, commonsense reasoning, culturally competent AI and responsible AI in sensitive areas such as law and medicine.

This episode looks at what these systems can actually do, why they still make things up, how persuasive they can be, what changes when AI starts acting on our behalf, and what ordinary people should understand as AI becomes part of everyday life.

No computer-science degree required.

Just a practical conversation about one of the biggest technologies shaping the future — what it gets right, what it gets wrong, and what comes next.

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For the first half of this episode, Vancouver comedian Byron Bertram is completely in character as Sergei Putinski — “The Russian Comic.”

Steven Malkowich plays the interview totally straight, as if Sergei has arrived in Vancouver on an official diplomatic mission from the world of Russian comedy.

Then, halfway through the conversation, everything changes.

Steven says, “Sergei, we need to talk to your handler.” The accent drops, the character disappears, and Byron Bertram finally joins the conversation as himself.

From there, they get into the craft behind Sergei — how the character was built, what a character can sometimes say that the comedian can’t, and what Byron has learned from more than 20 years performing stand-up around the world.

They also talk about performing in more than 30 countries, the Vancouver comedy scene, Byron’s Live From The Biltmore special, corporate gigs, London and New York rooms, accents, characters, and some of the best and worst shows of his career.

There’s also a sincere moment in the middle of all the absurdity: Steven is Ukrainian, Sergei is Russian — at least in character — and the two look into the camera with a simple message about wanting the war to end.

And before the episode is over, Sergei returns for a lightning round as Byron switches back and forth between both personalities.

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What makes a former professional footballer decide to run for City Council?

Dehara Thompson joins Steven Malkowich on Ship of Fools for a wide-ranging conversation about sport, family, community leadership and why she has decided to run for Port Coquitlam City Council in the October 17 municipal election.

Before entering politics, Dehara played professionally with Newcastle United Women and built a long career in soccer, coaching and community development. She is now Executive Director of She Plays Sports Society and has also worked in youth sport, nonprofit leadership, school community involvement and major-event logistics.

The conversation starts with the person behind the campaign: her family background, the influence of two cultures growing up, the 1994 World Cup, and the path that eventually took her into professional football.

From there, Steven and Dehara talk about motherhood, community involvement, youth sport and what she believes those experiences taught her about leadership, budgets, facilities, volunteers and service.

Then the conversation shifts to Port Coquitlam.

Dehara explains why she is running as an independent, what she believes she would bring to council as a first-time candidate, and how she thinks about issues including housing, smart density, community safety, recreation, ageing infrastructure, mental health, addiction and fiscal responsibility. Her campaign emphasizes safe and active neighbourhoods, opportunity for youth and families, practical leadership, accountability and transparency.

And Steven asks one of the biggest questions facing every municipal election:

Why should people who usually skip local elections care enough to vote?

Port Coquitlam voters will elect six councillors on October 17, 2026, from a field that includes Dehara and 14 other council candidates.

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What would Troy Van Vliet actually do if he became Mayor of Surrey?

Surrey mayoral candidate Troy Van Vliet returns to Ship of Fools for Part Two of his conversation with Steven Malkowich. This time, they take a deeper look at the Surrey NOW platform and how Troy proposes to turn his campaign commitments into action at City Hall.

With Surrey's municipal election approaching on October 17, 2026, Steven asks Troy to explain the practical steps behind his five platform pillars: Safe Streets, Smart Growth, Strong Families, Real Ownership, and a City Hall That Delivers.

They begin with public safety, discussing extortion targeting local businesses, the Surrey Police Service, and what municipal government can realistically do to make neighbourhoods safer.

From there, the conversation turns to Surrey's rapid growth. How can the city keep up with demand for housing, schools, transportation and essential infrastructure? What needs to change in the development and permitting process? And where should Surrey's next generation of residents live?

Troy also explains his vision for stronger families and his Real Ownership proposal, which aims to create a pathway from renting to owning a home.

Finally, Steven presses him on accountability at City Hall. What would Troy prioritize in his first 100 days? How would his administration measure results? And how would he translate his private-sector experience into municipal leadership?

This episode explores the ideas, implementation challenges and decisions behind Troy Van Vliet's campaign for Mayor of Surrey.

In this episode:

• Troy Van Vliet's five Surrey NOW platform pillars
• Safe Streets: policing, extortion and public safety
• Smart Growth: housing, infrastructure and permitting
• Strong Families: schools, recreation and community services
• Real Ownership: creating pathways to home ownership
• Transportation, traffic and transit
• Accountability and government spending
• Troy's proposed priorities for his first 100 days
• The October 17 Surrey municipal election

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What should Surrey's next mayor prioritize? Join the conversation.

Surrey mayoral candidate Troy Van Vliet joins Steven Malkowich on Ship of Fools for a detailed conversation about taxes, housing, public safety and what he believes needs to change at Surrey City Hall.

This first episode focuses on the hard questions behind the campaign promises.

Steven pushes Troy on his 0% tax increase pledge: how long would it last, what would have to be cut, and where would the savings come from?

They also break down Troy’s Real Ownership proposal and what a rent-to-own pathway could actually look like for a younger Surrey resident trying to get into the housing market.

From there, the conversation turns to some of Surrey’s most serious issues: extortion, policing, the toxic drug supply and public safety. Troy explains what he believes a mayor can realistically do and where municipal government has limits.

They also discuss schools, development, the pressures created by Surrey’s rapid growth, the experience Troy brings from the private sector, and the scrutiny that comes with running for mayor as a developer and first-time candidate.

With Surrey voters heading to the polls on October 17, this is a substantive look at the policies Troy Van Vliet is putting forward and the questions voters may want answered before making their decision.

In this episode:

• Troy Van Vliet’s 0% tax increase pledge
• City Hall spending and potential cuts
• Housing affordability and Real Ownership
• Surrey policing and public safety
• Extortion targeting local businesses
• The toxic drug supply
• Surrey schools and infrastructure
• Growth and development
• Why Troy is running for mayor
• What he says he would change at City Hall

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Learn More about the Surrey Now Slate Here

Delta mayoral candidate Dylan Kruger joins Steven Malkowich on Ship of Fools ahead of the October 17 municipal election for a candid conversation about the future of Delta—and one of B.C.'s most controversial infrastructure projects.

At the centre of the discussion is the George Massey Tunnel replacement, now estimated at approximately $8.5 billion. Kruger has been one of its most vocal municipal critics, describing the escalating cost and handling of the project as a government “boondoggle” and calling for greater accountability.

But this conversation goes well beyond the tunnel.

Steven and Dylan talk about why municipal elections have such a direct impact on everyday life, the traffic and freight congestion Delta residents deal with, the contradiction between climate goals and vehicles idling for years at one of the region's worst bottlenecks, and what taxpayers should expect when major public projects dramatically exceed their original budgets.

They also look at the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, another Metro Vancouver infrastructure project whose cost has climbed into the billions, and ask a larger question: Why do massive public projects keep becoming dramatically more expensive—and who is ultimately accountable?

Dylan also discusses his East Ladner roots, becoming Delta's youngest councillor when he was first elected in 2018, his decision to run for mayor with One Delta, and what he believes needs to change at Delta City Hall.

With Delta voters heading to the polls on October 17, 2026, this is a timely conversation about infrastructure, affordability, government spending and the direction of one of Metro Vancouver's fastest-changing communities.

In this episode:

• Why Dylan Kruger is running for Mayor of Delta
• The 2026 Delta municipal election
• The $8.5-billion Massey Tunnel replacement
• Traffic, trucks and congestion through the Massey corridor
• Government accountability and infrastructure spending
• The North Shore wastewater treatment plant cost escalation
• Affordability and municipal taxes
• What Kruger wants to change at Delta City Hall
• What municipal, provincial and federal governments should be doing differently

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Learn More about One Delta Here

Carl Valentine came to Vancouver as a 20-year-old from Oldham in 1979 — and went on to become one of the most important figures in this city’s soccer history.

The Whitecaps and Canada Soccer legend joins Steven Malkowich for a fun, wide-ranging conversation about the career that took him from earning £16 a week in England to winning the 1979 Soccer Bowl, playing for West Brom, returning to Vancouver with the 86ers, winning four straight championships and representing Canada at the 1986 World Cup.

Carl talks about growing up around Manchester, watching George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton, moving across the world at 20, becoming Canadian, helping send Canada to its first World Cup, and what it was like walking onto the field in Mexico against France and Michel Platini.

They also get into what Canada’s 2026 World Cup run meant to him, how much soccer has grown in this country, his role with the Whitecaps today, and why the club still matters so much to Vancouver.

It’s a great conversation about soccer, opportunity, community and how a young player from Oldham became part of Vancouver’s identity.

🎙️ Guest: Carl Valentine
🎧 Host: Steven Malkowich
⚽ Vancouver Whitecaps & Canada Soccer legend

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SFU political science professor Anil Hira returns to Ship of Fools for a plain-English breakdown of how the American political system actually works — and why Canadians so often misunderstand it.

Who really holds the power in the United States? The president? Congress? The Senate? The courts? The states?

Anil draws on his years working in Washington, including time on Capitol Hill and at the U.S. State Department, to explain how decisions actually get made and why the system can look very different from Canada’s.

Steven and Anil also get into:

• Trump and the current Canada-U.S. tariff fight
• What a U.S. president can — and cannot — do on his own
• Why Congress and the Senate matter so much
• The role of the courts, states and local governments
• Why the Electoral College confuses so many Canadians
• What Canadians consistently get wrong about American politics
• The upcoming U.S. midterms and why control of Congress matters
• Anil’s book The Great Disruption and what Trump, Brexit and populism still tell us seven years later
• Whether Canada is developing some of the same political pressures

This is not a political science lecture. It’s a practical conversation about Trump, tariffs, power and the American system Canadians hear about every day — but may not understand nearly as well as we think.

🎙️ Guest: Professor Anil Hira, Simon Fraser University
🎧 Host: Steven Malkowich

Ship of Fools Podcast — Where Wit Meets Wisdom.

Comedian and former radio host Alex Carr joins Steven Malkowich for a funny, wide-ranging conversation about the strange career path that took him from fast food, hotel work and used-car sales to radio and stand-up comedy.

Alex talks about selling cable door-to-door in Detroit, working at X92.9, CFOX and 102.1 The Edge, finding comedy material in everyday life, Vancouver’s stand-up scene, crowd work and whether Canadian comedians can actually make a living doing comedy.

They also get into the changing radio business, B.C. politics, David Eby, wildfires, Trump, Canada-U.S. tariffs and whether political comedy still lands with Canadian audiences.

It’s less of an interview and more of a great conversation about comedy, careers and somehow ending up exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Ship of Fools Podcast — Where Wit Meets Wisdom.

The 2026 World Cup is over, Canada made a historic run, and Vancouver hosted seven matches — but after the crowds, ticket prices, public spending and hype, what did the city actually get from it?

Ray Goldenchild returns to Ship of Fools to give his post-World Cup verdict.

Steven and Ray unpack Canada’s run to the knockout stage, Vancouver’s World Cup experience, ticket affordability, FIFA politics and controversy, the spectacle surrounding the tournament, and some of the biggest moments on the pitch.

Then they get to the question that matters long after the final whistle: did the World Cup actually leave Canadian soccer better off?

Ray also talks about the importance of grassroots development through Orix Community Sports Club and what needs to happen next if Canada wants the momentum to last.

Was it worth it for Vancouver? Listen and decide for yourself.

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Making people laugh for a living sounds fun. Actually building a career doing it? That’s the hard part.

Vancouver comedian Niki Mohrdar joins Ship of Fools Podcast for a funny, candid conversation about finding her voice, getting started in stand-up and what it really takes to make a living in Canadian comedy.

Niki has performed with Just For Laughs Vancouver, appeared on OUTtv’s Killjoy Comedy and Just For Laughs Originals, and is featured in the new season of CBC Gem’s The New Wave of Standup. She also co-hosts Pillow Talk, a live comedy show with Cass Furman.

We get into the Vancouver comedy scene, the rooms and comedians that shaped her, how her style has evolved, the realities of being a working comic in Canada, and why choosing a career built around making strangers laugh can be equal parts rewarding, ridiculous and difficult.

And because this is Ship of Fools Podcast, the conversation goes wherever it wants to go.

Funny, loose and occasionally insightful — Where Wit Meets Wisdom.

Ship of Fools Podcast with Niki Mohrdar.

What can police legally demand from you at a B.C. roadblock? How reliable are roadside tests for alcohol, cannabis and prescription medications? And when does an e-bike or scooter legally become a motor vehicle?

B.C. driving lawyer Kyla Lee joins Ship of Fools to explain what drivers are required to do when stopped, what rights they still have and where roadside enforcement can become legally questionable.

Kyla breaks down breathalyzer demands, drug testing, false or misleading readings and the consequences of refusing—or being unable—to provide a sample. She also explains how Charter rights apply behind the wheel, including Section 1 and the limits governments can place on individual rights in the name of public safety.

The conversation then turns to the growing confusion around e-bikes and e-scooters in British Columbia. What is actually legal, where can they be ridden and who is responsible when riders, drivers and pedestrians are competing for space on roads, sidewalks and bike lanes?

A practical and timely conversation about the driving laws every British Columbian should understand.

This episode is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.

What is driving the frustration, distrust and political fatigue being felt across British Columbia?

Mo Amir, host of This Is VANCOLOUR, joins Steven Malkowich to examine the mood of the province heading into the fall. They discuss the pressure facing the B.C. NDP, what new leadership could mean for the B.C. Conservatives, and whether the province is experiencing a genuine political realignment or simply a new version of the same frustrations.

They also get into Vancouver, Surrey, Coquitlam and Metro Vancouver politics, the decline of traditional local media, differences between regions of B.C., younger people’s growing “why bother?” attitude, and whether populism reflects healthy skepticism or grievance politics.

A wide-ranging conversation about why trust is eroding—and what that means for the future of B.C. politics.

British Columbians are paying more—but are they getting better government?

Carson Binda of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation returns to Ship of Fools for a candid conversation about government waste, weak accountability and the growing disconnect between public spending and actual results.

We break down the B.C. government’s spending record, municipal mismanagement, what nurses are really asking for, whether taxpayers are being used to protect developers, and the costly political dysfunction surrounding Surrey policing and controversial land purchases.

A lively discussion about political theatre, misplaced priorities and who ultimately pays when government decisions go wrong.

Why can a conflict thousands of kilometres away suddenly make filling your tank in Vancouver more expensive?

SFU political science professor and energy-policy expert Anil Hira joins us to explain how Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global oil markets and political decisions affect gas prices in Canada. We break down real supply problems versus speculation, why prices often rise faster than they fall, and how global instability reaches people at the pump.

Anil also discusses Canada’s clean-energy options, the realities of transitioning away from fossil fuels, and how Canadian energy and climate politics compare with the United States under Donald Trump.

A practical conversation about gas prices, geopolitics, populism and where Canada’s energy future may be headed.

Comedian Rachel Schaefer joins Ship of Fools for a funny and honest conversation about life as a working Canadian comic.

Rachel has been featured on Just For Laughs, CBC Gem’s The New Wave of Standup, SiriusXM Comedy Club, Stop Podcasting Yourself, and Roast Battle Canada. She’s also known as an undefeated Vancouver Roast Battle Champion, which makes her the perfect guest to talk about writing sharp jokes, handling hecklers, and whether comedy can actually go too far.

In this episode, Rachel talks about how comedy found her, growing up without TV, discovering Katt Williams in the school library, the day jobs behind the dream, life on the road, wild rooms, podcasting, roast culture, and what it really takes to break through in Canada’s comedy scene.

A great conversation about comedy, failure, confidence, timing, and why comics keep showing up even when the room is terrible.

Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West joins Ship of Fools Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, municipal politics, BC politics, and what makes PoCo one of the most distinct communities in Metro Vancouver.

Brad shares his background, how he first got involved in public service, and the path that eventually led him to becoming Mayor of Port Coquitlam. Steven and Brad discuss the realities of local government, the pressures facing cities, and the issues residents are raising most — including housing, public safety, infrastructure, taxes, community character, and regional decision-making.

They also get into the bigger political picture in British Columbia, including the recent BC Conservative leadership race, the relationship between municipal and provincial politics, and what “common sense” means in public life today.

This episode is about Port Coquitlam, the Lower Mainland, and the future of politics in BC from the perspective of a mayor who deals with these issues on the ground every day.

Former BC Conservative leader John Rustad joins Ship of Fools for a thoughtful, good-faith conversation about British Columbia, leadership, Indigenous land issues, resource development, and what comes next for B.C. politics.

This episode goes beyond the headlines. John shares more about his upbringing in northern B.C., his background in forestry and business, and the experiences that shaped his path into public service. From there, the conversation turns to the rise of the BC Conservatives, the political shakeup that followed, and the bigger question facing the province: how does B.C. move forward?

We also discuss Indigenous land issues, negotiated settlements, certainty for communities and investors, rebuilding trust in politics, and what practical leadership should look like in British Columbia today.

Whether you agree with John Rustad or not, this is a serious conversation about the future of B.C. and the need for more honest, constructive dialogue.

The FIFA World Cup is coming to Vancouver — but what kind of legacy will it leave behind?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Ray Goldenchild, Vancouver soccer coach and founder of Orix Soccer Academy, for a thoughtful conversation about the World Cup, local soccer, youth development, public spending, and real community impact.

Ray is a lifelong soccer advocate who believes major sporting events should leave more behind than a few weeks of attention. If Canada and Vancouver can find the money to host World Cup matches, what does that say about what we are willing to invest in the kids, coaches, clubs, fields, and communities that support soccer all year long?

This is not an anti-World Cup conversation. It is a conversation about legacy.

Ray shares his perspective on what Vancouver soccer actually needs, why access matters, how young players can be better supported, and what a meaningful World Cup legacy could look like for local communities.

If you care about soccer in Vancouver, youth sports, Canadian soccer, the FIFA World Cup, or how major events impact real people, this episode is worth a listen.

Follow Ship of Fools Podcast for more real conversations about sports, culture, community, business, politics, and life in British Columbia.

Can Vancouver be fixed?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Wes Regan for a thoughtful and hopeful conversation about Vancouver, public planning, government policy, community development, and what it really takes to build better cities.

Wes Regan is a Senior Policy Lead with Vancouver Coastal Health and a PhD Candidate at UBC’s School of Community and Regional Planning. His work explores public trust, communication, conflict, misinformation, and how communities respond to planning and policy decisions.

The conversation covers Wes’s roots, his early work in the Downtown Eastside through the Vancouver Agreement, his role as the founding Executive Director of Hastings Crossing BIA — Canada’s first social-innovation BIA — and his leadership in Vancouver’s community economic development work from 2016 to 2019.

Wes also shares insight into the DTES Community Economic Development Strategy, Vancouver’s Community Benefits Agreement Policy, the City’s first Poverty Reduction Plan, and why trust, listening, and long-term thinking matter so much in public policy.

This is a conversation about Vancouver’s challenges, but also about hope — and the people working to build better systems from the inside.

Listen now and follow Ship of Fools for more real conversations with people shaping culture, community, business, politics, and life in British Columbia.

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Jimmy Crescenzo, founder of the East End Boys Club, for a powerful conversation about East Vancouver, mentorship, education, and what it really means to show up for young people.

Jimmy shares his roots in East Van, his background as an actor and teacher, and the community gaps he saw that pushed him to create something bigger than the classroom. The conversation explores how the East End Boys Club uses sports as a way to connect with youth, while keeping the deeper focus on education, life skills, accountability, mentorship, and helping young men build a stronger future.

This is a conversation about community, service, and the kind of grassroots leadership that can change lives.

Listen now, subscribe to Ship of Fools, and share this episode with someone who believes stronger communities start with people willing to get involved.

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Dr. Laurel Weldon, Dean of Simon Fraser University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, for a thoughtful conversation about democracy, women’s rights, public life, and why the social sciences matter.

Dr. Weldon shares her journey from growing up in the Lower Mainland to studying at SFU, UBC, and the University of Pittsburgh, building an academic career at Purdue University, and eventually returning to SFU as a scholar, teacher, and university leader.

The conversation explores what it means to be a democratic and feminist theorist in plain language, why women’s rights policies matter in everyday life, and how issues like violence against women, political inclusion, civic engagement, and public institutions shape the society we live in.

Steven and Dr. Weldon also discuss the role of teaching, the value of the arts and social sciences, and why these fields deserve a stronger place in public conversation.

A smart, accessible conversation about democracy, education, women’s rights, public life, and the social sciences.

Sage “The Wolf” Johnson is fighting for more than wins. He’s fighting for his future, his name, and a shot at the 2028 Olympics.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Sage opens up about the personal challenges that shaped him, the reality of growing up with obstacles, and what it takes to keep pushing toward elite-level boxing when nothing comes easy.

This conversation goes deeper than the sport. It is about discipline, pressure, family, identity, setbacks, belief, and the fight outside the ring that made Sage the fighter he is today.

From his early struggles to his growing career in boxing, Sage shares what drives him, what he has had to overcome, and why the dream of competing on the Olympic stage means so much.

This is a personal and powerful conversation with Sage “The Wolf” Johnson — a rising boxer chasing something bigger than himself.

Watch or listen now on Ship of Fools Podcast, where wit meets wisdom.

Surrey is heading into a major municipal election in 2026, and voters are beginning to ask who is ready to lead one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven sits down with Troy Van Vliet, candidate for Mayor of Surrey, for a personal and practical conversation about who he is, why he is running, and what kind of leadership he believes Surrey needs next.

Troy is running with Surrey Now, a new civic team focused on safe streets, smart growth, and strong families. Their message is centred on practical solutions, responsible growth, strong communities, and the belief that “if it’s good for families, it’s good for Surrey.”

This episode introduces Troy beyond the campaign headline. Steven and Troy discuss his roots in Surrey, what he is hearing from families and business owners, the pressures people are feeling across the city, and why stability, accountability, and long-term thinking matter at City Hall.

They also talk about public safety, growth, housing uncertainty, infrastructure, public trust, family life, and what responsible leadership should look like as Surrey continues to change.

If you live in Surrey, run a business here, are raising a family here, or care about the future of the city, this is a conversation worth watching before the 2026 municipal election.

Watch the full video episode on Spotify and follow Ship of Fools Podcast for more conversations on politics, business, culture, leadership, and the issues shaping British Columbia.

British Columbians are feeling squeezed — by housing costs, taxes, government spending, red tape, and a growing sense that common sense has left the building.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven Malkowich sits down with Jordan Bateman, Vice-President of Communications and Marketing at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association, former B.C. Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, former Langley Township Councillor, journalist, writer, and longtime public policy commentator.

They get into B.C.’s affordability crisis, government spending, housing supply, construction, public policy, entrepreneurs, local government, and what it would take to bring a more rational, common-sense approach back to the province.

It is a thoughtful, direct, and wide-ranging conversation about how British Columbia got here — and what it might take to right the ship.

Watch more Ship of Fools Podcast episodes on YouTube and follow the show on Spotify for new conversations on politics, public life, culture, media, business, and the people trying to make sense of it all.

Graham Clark joins Ship of Fools for a funny, thoughtful conversation about building a real comedy career in Canada. From stand-up and writing to podcasting, festivals, and the Vancouver comedy scene, this episode explores what it actually takes to make a life in comedy while living next door to the massive U.S. entertainment machine.

We talk about how Graham got started, what Canada gives comedians, what it makes harder, how Stop Podcasting Yourself became such a lasting show, and why making people laugh for a living is a lot stranger than most people think. We also get into charity marathon shows, staying funny over time, and of course, beard paintings.

Graham Clark is a Canadian comedian, writer, and podcaster known for his long-running work in stand-up and for co-hosting Stop Podcasting Yourself. This is a light, smart, conversational episode about comedy, creativity, podcasting, and what it really looks like to build a lasting career in Canada.

Could fear over B.C. land claims already be hitting property values? Steven speaks with Jason Upton, President of Aedis Appraisals, about the Cowichan ruling, appraisals, lending risk, and how public perception may be affecting homeowners, buyers, and property values across British Columbia.

Steven Malkowich is joined by returning guest Dr. Aaron Hoffman, Professor of Political Science at Simon Fraser University, for a timely breakdown of the escalating Iran crisis. Dr. Hoffman is an expert on terrorism, counter-terrorism, US foreign policy, and other international security issues.

They examine what is actually happening, what may be political theatre, and what the public should be paying attention to next. From Trump’s rhetoric to the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices, gas prices, and the possibility of wider conflict, this episode looks at the political, economic, and human pressure building around one of the most volatile stories in the world right now.

In this episode, Steven sits down with Ryan Mitton of CFIB to talk about the growing pressure on small businesses in British Columbia and across Canada. They discuss red tape, taxes, labour shortages, retail crime, the rising cost of doing business, and why many entrepreneurs feel like the system is working against them.

Ryan shares his perspective from the policy side, what CFIB is hearing from business owners on the ground, and what needs to change if BC wants stronger local economies, better conditions for growth, and more support for the people who keep communities running.

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In this episode, we sit down with Carson Binda from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation to break down the latest British Columbia budget — focusing on the numbers, not the political spin.

We unpack the projected $13.3 billion deficit, rising provincial debt, and what increasing interest costs mean for taxpayers. We also discuss recent tax changes, major infrastructure delays like the George Massey Tunnel replacement, and the growing pressure on core services like healthcare, education, and public safety.

This conversation looks at the long-term implications of current fiscal decisions and how they could impact the cost of living, small businesses, and the broader economic outlook in British Columbia.

If you live or do business in BC, this episode will help you understand what’s actually happening behind the headlines.

What does it take to build a fighter?

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we sit down with Sage Johnson and Oneal Mendoza for a conversation about boxing, discipline, resilience, and the work required to rise in the sport.

Sage Johnson is a rising boxer out of Surrey, BC, and Oneal Mendoza is the coach behind Mendoza Boxing Club. Together, they talk about the mindset needed to compete, the role of discipline and preparation, and the relationship between fighter and coach.

This episode explores:

• Sage Johnson’s boxing journey

• what it takes to develop as a fighter

• the importance of coaching and mentorship

• the mentality behind boxing

• discipline, resilience, and growth in combat sports

• the road ahead in Canadian boxing

If you follow boxing, combat sports, athlete development, or stories about grit and ambition, this is a conversation worth hearing.

Ship of Fools Podcast
Where Wit Meets Wisdom.

Canada has a shortage of doctors — yet internationally trained physicians often face years of barriers before they can practice medicine.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast – Where Wit Meets Wisdom, we sit down with Dr. Raghav Saini, an orthopedic surgeon practicing in Surrey, British Columbia.

Dr. Saini shares his remarkable journey from graduating at Government Medical College Amritsar in India to navigating the long and complex process of becoming licensed to practice medicine in Canada.

We discuss the realities many international medical graduates face when trying to work in the Canadian healthcare system — including licensing exams, regulatory requirements, and years of uncertainty before being able to serve patients.

Topics in this episode include:

• Dr. Saini’s medical training in India
• The decision to immigrate to Canada
• The Medical Council of Canada (MCC) exams
• Licensing through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (CPSBC)
• Achieving Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC)
• The challenges international doctors face entering the Canadian system
• Serving Surrey’s diverse community in English, Hindi, and Punjabi
• The philosophy of orthopedic surgery and restoring quality of life

Dr. Saini also shares advice for internationally trained physicians considering Canada and his outlook for the future of orthopedic care.

Ship of Fools Podcast
Where Wit Meets Wisdom.

Conversations exploring leadership, culture, policy, and the ideas shaping our world.

British Columbia is 95% Crown land.

So what happens when court rulings and government agreements begin reshaping who has authority over it?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Warren Mirko, Executive Director of the Public Land Use Society (PLUS), to examine the rapidly evolving legal and political landscape surrounding land governance in BC.

We break down:

• The recent Musqueam land recognition agreement in Metro Vancouver
• The Cowichan Aboriginal title ruling and what the court actually decided
• Whether title can extend into areas with existing private interests
• DRIPA and how it is changing land governance in British Columbia
• Legal uncertainty, Section 35, and constitutional tensions
• What this means for municipalities, property owners, and Crown land users
• Park access, shared-use agreements, and public land transparency

PLUS argues that reconciliation and constitutional clarity must go together — and that ordinary British Columbians deserve transparency in decisions affecting Crown land.

If you live in BC and care about land rights, property rights, public access, or governance reform, this conversation matters.

What does policing in Surrey actually look like in 2026?

In this episode, Sgt. Tige Pollock of the Surrey Police Service joins us for a candid, non-partisan conversation about crime trends, gang activity, homelessness, and the transition from RCMP contract policing to Surrey’s municipal police force.

We discuss what has changed operationally since SPS became the police of jurisdiction, how regional coordination works across the Lower Mainland, and why public perception of crime can differ from what officers see day to day.

This is not a debate episode. It’s a grounded conversation about public safety, jurisdiction, and how policing functions across Surrey, White Rock, and surrounding communities.

If you care about public safety in British Columbia, this episode provides context beyond headlines.

BC politics feels increasingly unstable — but is it chaos or strategy?

Investigative journalist Bob Mackin, publisher of theBreaker.news, joins Ship of Fools for a candid, fact-driven conversation about what’s unfolding in British Columbia politics.

We break down:

• The BC NDP under David Eby
• The BC Conservative leadership race and internal factions
• The rise of CentreBC and vote fragmentation
• Whether opposition chaos ultimately benefits the NDP
• DRIPA, UNDRIP, and legal uncertainty around land and resource projects
• Eby’s positioning in Ottawa and what it means for BC

Is this a power realignment — or just noise?

If you’re following BC politics, the Conservative leadership race, reconciliation policy, or the shifting political landscape in British Columbia, this episode connects the dots.

New episodes weekly.

Manny Sobral returns to the podcast to talk about Rumble at the Rock 2026, one of the most anticipated Olympic-style amateur boxing events in Western Canada, and the continued growth of Buckskin Gloves.

We get into what makes Olympic-style boxing so compelling, how amateur fighters develop through events like this, and why community-driven fight nights matter more than ever.

Rumble at the Rock 2026 features:
• 10 Olympic-style bouts
• Top amateur boxers from Western Canada and Washington State
• A main event featuring Canada’s top-ranked lightweight, Sage Johnson
• Hosted at the River Rock Show Theatre — where every seat feels close to the action

All proceeds support the East Van Boys Club and the Greater Vancouver Boxing Association.

This conversation goes beyond promotion — it’s about the state of amateur boxing, building credible fight events, and supporting the next generation of fighters.

Comedian Simon King joins the Ship of Fools Podcast for a thoughtful conversation about comedy, politics, culture, and what it means to stay human in uncomfortable times.

Simon’s work lives where wit meets wisdom—using humor to explore fear, bigotry, accountability, and the quieter tensions shaping how we talk to one another today. When comedians take on heavy subjects, what’s the real job of the comic: to provoke, to clarify, to challenge, or simply to tell the truth in a way people can actually hear?

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why comedy so often collides with politics and culture

• The difference between outrage culture and genuine accountability

• Whether comedians feel more constrained today—or if that fear is overstated

• How comedy rooms feel right now, and where they may be headed

• Crowd differences across Canada, the U.S., and the U.K.

• What Vancouver and BC mean to Simon as a home base after years on the road

• How the local comedy scene has changed

• Advice for younger comics starting out today

• And the honest question: what keeps you doing this when there are easier ways to be exhausted?

🎭 Learn more about Simon King here.

Ship of Fools Podcast features long-form conversations with creators, thinkers, and cultural voices—where wit meets wisdom.

Follow Ship of Fools Podcast on Spotify for expert conversations on politics, power, and culture.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Aaron Hoffman, a political scientist and Professor of Political Science at Simon Fraser University, for a clear-eyed discussion of one of the most unsettling political moments in recent history.

We examine the national controversy surrounding the fatal shootings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by U.S. federal agents and the immediate use of the “domestic terrorism” label — a move that has sparked widespread concern about government power, enforcement culture, and political escalation in the United States.

From immigration enforcement and ICE oversight to tariffs, rare minerals, NATO tensions, and Canada–U.S. relations, Aaron helps separate emotional reaction from political reality.

We also explore whether Donald Trump is reshaping the rules of international politics intentionally — or governing through impulse — and what that means for Canada’s national identity, sovereignty, and future relationship with its closest ally.

This is a grounded, non-sensational conversation focused on understanding power, uncertainty, and how democratic systems respond under stress.

Follow or learn more about Ship of Fools Podcast for long-form conversations that go deeper than headlines and challenge easy narratives.

Canada is experiencing a period of political uncertainty — particularly in British Columbia — and it raises deeper questions about who we are and where we’re headed.

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we’re joined by Dr. Sanjay Jeram, a Political Science professor at Simon Fraser University whose research focuses on nationalism, immigration, political culture, and territorial politics.

We discuss:

• The current uncertainty around BC’s official opposition and leadership

• How Canadian nationalism differs from American nationalism

• Multiculturalism, identity, and political cohesion in Canada

• Parallels and contrasts between Canadian and U.S. politics

• What this moment may signal about Canada’s political future

Following the strong response to our Cowichan Land Case episode, this conversation broadens the lens — moving beyond a single issue to examine Canadian political culture and identity at a national level.

If you’re looking for thoughtful political discussion without partisan noise, this episode provides context and perspective.

Follow Ship of Fools for in-depth conversations on politics, culture, and public life in Canada.

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we speak with Thomas Isaac, Chair of the Aboriginal Law Group at Cassels, to explain the legal foundations and governance implications of the Cowichan Tribes land title case in British Columbia.

This conversation is not about headlines, appeals, or political reaction. It is a clear, structured discussion of how Aboriginal title functions under Canadian law, why courts addressed the concept of defective title, and where responsibility truly lies when unresolved treaties intersect with modern legislation.

We explore the role of UNDRIP and British Columbia’s DRIPA framework, the growing influence of courts in land claims, and why First Nations are not the source of legal uncertainty — but participants responding to decades of governmental inaction.

This episode is designed to provide clarity and context for homeowners, business owners, and anyone trying to understand the long-term legal landscape surrounding land ownership and governance in British Columbia.

Topics Covered:

• How Aboriginal title differs from fee-simple land ownership

• What the Cowichan decision clarified — and what it did not

• Why UNDRIP influences court interpretation without triggering immediate land changes

• DRIPA’s impact on political versus judicial responsibility

• Where accountability properly lies in unresolved land claims

• Why governments must re-engage in meaningful negotiations

🎙️ Ship of Fools — Where Wit Meets Wisdom
Our title is ironic. Our intent is genuine.

Hosted by Steven Malkowich, Ship of Fools features long-form conversations with thoughtful voices exploring law, leadership, culture, and the ideas shaping our world.

👉 Follow the show for fact-based discussions that go beyond surface-level commentary.

What happens when humour becomes a bridge—not a shield?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we sit down with Trevor Jang—a journalist-turned stand-up comedian, award-winning writer, and Indigenous & Chinese-Canadian storyteller using comedy to explore identity, recovery, and being truly seen.

Trevor shares how humour became a tool rather than a defense mechanism, how he learned to talk about recovery without turning it into a trauma dump, and why comedy can open conversations most people avoid.

Drawing from his Wet’suwet’en and Chinese-Canadian roots, Trevor brings a perspective rarely seen on the comedy stage. His work has earned him recognition as a finalist in the Yuk Yuk’s BC Yuk Off (Top 7 of 75 comics), and he’s continuing to build momentum with new projects—including an upcoming stand-up series set to stream on Amazon Prime.

This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about rebuilding, creativity, and laughing again—on stage and in life.

🎭 Learn more about Trevor: https://trevorjang.com/

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven Malkowich sits down with Chris Voute, founder of Lumera Solar.

Chris shares his self-taught journey into solar, the birth of Lumera, and why he chose to manufacture solar products in British Columbia instead of China. The conversation also explores whether solar is truly practical for off-grid living in Canada, common misconceptions about solar performance, and what energy independence actually looks like.

This is a grounded, real-world discussion about entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and the future of Canadian solar — without the hype.

🔗 Learn more: https://lumerasolar.com/

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we speak with Dave Armstrong, founder of CS Designs, about the real-world impact tariffs have on small businesses.

Dave shares firsthand insight into how importing and exporting have become more complex, expensive, and unpredictable — and how those pressures ripple through pricing, operations, and long-term planning. This is an honest, ground-level conversation about trade, supply chains, and what business owners are actually facing behind the scenes.

If you’re an entrepreneur, manufacturer, or simply trying to understand why costs keep rising, this episode provides clarity without political noise.

Learn more about CS Designs: https://csdesigns.biz/

What does it take to build something that truly lasts?

In this episode, Troy Van Vliet shares the personal journey behind the creation of Saint John Paul II Academy’s permanent campus in South Surrey. From growing up in a family of builders to leading a complex, community-driven project through years of challenges, Troy reflects on leadership, responsibility, and the importance of building with purpose.

We explore how sports, entrepreneurship, family life, and service shaped Troy’s approach, the obstacles faced along the way, and the moment the school finally opened its doors to its first students. This is a conversation about legacy—what we leave behind, who we build for, and why it matters.

Ship of Fools Podcast Website: shipoffools.ca

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Alex Alegria — the “King of Mariachi” and founder of Los Dorados — joins us for the first-ever live in-studio performance on the Ship of Fools Podcast. He shares his journey from Oaxaca to Vancouver, his impact on multicultural music in Canada, and how Los Dorados built a powerful community through mariachi.

Learn more about Los Dorados: https://www.losdoradoscanada.com/

Is the FIFA World Cup worth the massive price tag for Vancouver?
Soccer coach Ray Goldenchild breaks down the rising costs, the risks to taxpayers, and what the event could mean for local soccer.
Soccer coach and Orix Academy founder Ray Goldenchild joins us for a candid conversation about the rising costs, the public risks, and whether the tournament will bring real value to the community.

Ray breaks down why he believes the benefits might not match the hype — and what he’d change if he were running the event. He also shares the story behind Orix Soccer Academy, how they develop smarter players, and why affordable, grassroots access matters for every kid.

A powerful episode for anyone who cares about soccer, youth development, or how major events shape Vancouver’s future.

This episode explains the Cowichan title ruling, what it does and does not change for private land titles, why the Province — led by Premier David Eby — has filed an appeal, and how this could affect property rights, lending, insurance, and development decisions across B.C.

Guest Adam Pankratz also shares why th⁠e Public Land Use Society (PLUS)⁠ was created and how British Columbians can engage in land-use decisions that shape the province’s future.

A must-listen for anyone who owns land, rents, builds, or does business in B.C.

Follow the Ship of Fools Podcast — Where Wit Meets Wisdom.
Honest conversations. Sharp perspectives. Stories that shape Canada.

In this episode, Rod Giltaca, CEO & Executive Director of the Canadian Coalition for Firearms Rights, joins Steven Malkowich for a candid conversation about one of the most polarizing issues in the country: Canada’s firearms debate.

Rod shares why he founded the CCFR, what the organization actually does, and how years of misconceptions have shaped the national conversation. He talks openly about media narratives, public education, responsible ownership, and why debates about firearms ultimately affect every Canadian — even those who don’t own one.

The discussion dives into the impact of recent legislation, the future of advocacy, and why Rod believes clarity, transparency, and facts are more important than ever in shaping public policy.

A clear, compelling, and eye-opening episode for anyone who wants to understand what’s really happening behind the headlines.

Follow the Ship of Fools Podcast for more thought-provoking conversations with the voices influencing Canada today.