Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

Heather Gilchrist spent $60k of her own money moving to Canada and getting certified to work. The 58-year-old came to British Columbia, recently widowed, looking to continue her career as an experienced midwife. But a glitch in her paperwork is triggering deportation on the grounds the British citizen can't speak English. We dig into the debacle with National Post correspondent Tristin Hopper (6:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. 52:15 | Prompted by Tristin's interaction with Lucy the Elephant, Real Talkers have their say on zoos, circuses, and changing attitudes around conservation. Real Talk's Live Chat is powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:06:00 | Calling all coffee, Scotch, and cigar lovers: you owe it to yourself to visit Ursidae Lair in Jasper! We shine a light on the stunning Scotch tasting lounge in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. CHECK IT OUT: https://ursidaelair.com/ PLAN YOUR NEXT JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:09:40 | There's not a lot to say at this point about the RCMP investigation into alleged corruption at Calgary City Hall, but Jespo touches on it.  1:15:00 | Real Talker Aly shares her very moving story of how the MAiD debate personally impacted her family.  TELL US YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The Edmonton Oilers are the third most profitable sports franchise on the planet. Team owner Daryl Katz is now worth an estimated $7.4 billion. And, as Connor McDavid and his teammates prepare for playoffs, season tickets holders have been hit with a 15-20% price increase on renewals. We get into it with legendary broadcaster Lynda Steele (6:00) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  We get into gas prices and the war in Iran (30:20), Air Canada pilots killed at LaGuardia (37:00), PM Mark Carney's Year One Report Card (47:40), a new pipeline through B.C. (54:40), and real estate uncertainty around DRIPA (57:45). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ KILLEEN & STEELE: https://killeenandsteele.ca/ 1:16:00 | Have you heard Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan's recent comments on Israel? Real Talkers chime in via our Live Chat powered by Park Power. We have an update on the "Golden Cat" story (1:30:10).  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ JOIN JESPO at the HEARTS & HANDS POKER TOURNAMENT on APRIL 16/17: https://benstelterfoundation.com/ BOOK A FREE CALIFORNIA CLOSETS CONSULTATION: https://californiaclosets.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

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

Laura, Lisa, KimB, and Jake clap back at W. Brett Wilson. Brian says Take Back Alberta is pulling the strings on MAiD. And Brent has fond memories of Don Cherry, but he's not so sure about awarding him with the Order of Canada. It's The Flamethrower presented by our friends at 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU! SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Pierre Poilievre appears on Joe Rogan (5:25). Albertans with disabilities demand dignity (16:10). Women continue to be underrepresented in health research and services (44:20). We get into it all, including back-to-back feature interviews presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW'S BRAND NEW SHOWROOM IS NOW OPEN! https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ Real Talk is proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's and other dementias. Donate a minimum $100 to Jespo's Team Cali Crush fundraising page by March 20 at 5pm MT and qualify to win two club seats to the Oilers-Lightning game on March 21: https://rtrj.info/AlzProAm2026 16:10 | Bean Gill, Zachary Weeks, and MLA Marie Renaud explain the need for better accessibility laws in Alberta.  SIGN THE PETITION: https://www.zacharyweeks.ca/bill206 44:20 | Women remain underrepresented and underserved in our healthcare system. Dr. Sofia Ahmed, Dr. Tibetha Kemble (Stonechild), and Lindsay Robertson bring facts to the table in our Women's Health Research Month Round Table. ALBERTA WOMEN'S HEALTH FOUNDATION: https://givetoawhf.org/ 1:13:30 | What's the strategy behind Poilievre's interview on Rogan? Jespo and Johnny debate the risks and rewards of the appearance on the world's biggest podcast.  1:39:10 | Laura, Lisa, KimB, and Jake clap back at W. Brett Wilson. Brian says Take Back Alberta is pulling the strings on MAiD. And Brent has fond memories of Don Cherry, but he's not so sure about awarding him with the Order of Canada. It's The Flamethrower presented by our friends at 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta’s changing the rules around Medical Assistance in Dying, and it’s sparking a fierce, complex debate. The UCP’s legislation is being supported by some disability advocacy groups who say it strengthens safeguards and protects vulnerable people, while critics warn it could undermine personal autonomy, limit access, and set a troubling precedent in healthcare decision-making. Where’s the balance between protection and freedom? We dig into it with Trish Bowman (2:45), CEO of Inclusion Alberta, for a thoughtful and challenging conversation on what these changes really mean. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. INCLUSION ALBERTA: https://inclusionalberta.org/ WATCH OUR JANUARY 28, 2026 INTERVIEW re: AISH VS. ADAP: https://rtrj.info/012826AISHADAP 29:30 | Real Talkers share their personal experiences and perspectives on MAiD via emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com and our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 54:00 | Do you have to be a bit crazy to open a restaurant these days? What are today's foodies looking for? How has marketing changed? We check in with three of Edmonton's Best Restaurants, as recognized by Edify - Gabi Sequeira from Pip/Next Act, Daniel Ahan from Nero/Bianco, and Jack Lee from Juu Ku.  EDMONTON'S BEST RESTAURANTS 2026: https://edifyedmonton.com/food/best-restaurants/2026/ EDIFY'S BEST RESTAURANTS EVENT IS MARCH 23! GET TICKETS TODAY: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/best-restaurants-2026/ JUU KU: https://www.juuku.ca/ NERO: https://www.neroeats.com/ PIP: https://www.pipyeg.com/ WIN OILERS TICKETS: Real Talk is proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's and other dementias. Donate a minimum $100 to Jespo's Team Cali Crush fundraising page by March 20 at 5pm MT and qualify to win two club seats to the Oilers-Lightning game on March 21: https://rtrj.info/AlzProAm2026 FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta landowners are drawing a hard line - locking out oil and gas companies that haven’t paid what they owe. It’s a dramatic escalation in a long-simmering dispute over unpaid surface leases, and it’s raising serious questions about accountability in the energy sector. How did it get to this point, and who’s on the hook? We dig in with Mark Dorin of the Polluter Pay Federation in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (1:45).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ GET INVOLVED: https://www.cleanupyourmess.ca/ MORE: https://responsibleenergyab.ca/ 28:00 | Real Talk is proud to support the fight against Alzheimer's and other dementias. Donate a minimum $100 to Jespo's Team Cali Crush fundraising page by March 20 at 5pm MT and qualify to win two club seats to the Oilers-Lightning game on March 21: https://rtrj.info/AlzProAm2026 34:45 | Mark gives us his informed take on our March 17 interview with W. Brett Wilson. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/031726WBrett 43:15 | Drop everything and book your stay at Shovel Pass Lodge! We shine the spotlight on these incredible backcountry cabins in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR STAY: https://www.shovelpasslodge.com/ TOURISM JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 48:10 | Mark sticks around to hear from Real Talkers in the Live Chat powered by Park Power. The guys discuss the Wiebo Ludwig era in Alberta.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

W. Brett Wilson is one of Canada's most recognizable entrepreneurs. In our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (3:30), the former Dragons Den star responds to "the noise" from environmental groups opposing coal mining in Alberta and accusations he left landowners on the hook for orphan wells. We wrap with Brett's one word answer on how he'll be voting on Alberta separation.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. 39:00 | Real Talkers respond to the Wilson interview in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ DONATE A MINIMUM $100 TO THE ALZHEIMER'S PRO-AM HOCKEY TOURNAMENT (VIA THIS LINK) AND QUALIFY TO WIN TWO CLUB SEATS TO THE OILERS/LIGHTNING GAME ON MARCH 21: https://rtrj.info/AlzProAm2026 1:32:45 | It's true - Marilyn Monroe was once kicked out of the Jasper Park Lodge! Based on a comment in the Live Chat, we get the story from Canadian historian Craig Baird.  WATCH OUR INTERVIEW WITH CRAIG: https://rtrj.info/073026Craig FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

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

Felicia is blown away by the White House's AI video portraying the Iran war as a video game, Michael's done with Trump insulting Canadians, Janelle wants to thank Alberta separatists, Katie doesn't recognize Alberta anymore, Annie's got a message for trolls telling her to "go back where (she) belongs," and Rodger wants more photo radar. 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Young people today are more anxious and depressed - and less resilient - than generations past. Why? Is it social media? Screens? A troubling news cycle? Are we bad parents?  Athabasca University professor and registered psychologist Dr. Caroline Buzanko gets into it all in our feature interview (4:00) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ DISCOVER the AU ADVANTAGE: https://www.athabascau.ca/index.html 1:46:00 | We're in love with a Real Talker's 3D-printed gift for displaying our bottle of Hansen Distillery Mini Yeggs! Jespo shows some love to Brisch 3D Creations: https://www.brisch3d.com/ 1:54:00 | Real Talk is proud to support the Ben Stelter Foundation's Hearts & Hands Poker Tournament on April 16 and 17.  REGISTER to PLAY and/or SPONSOR: https://benstelterfoundation.com/ 1:55:15 | Felicia is blown away by the White House's AI video portraying the Iran war as a video game, Michael's done with Trump insulting Canadians, Janelle wants to thank Alberta separatists, Katie doesn't recognize Alberta anymore, Annie's got a message for trolls telling her to "go back where (she) belongs," and Rodger wants more photo radar. 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's very possible the Iranian regime could survive this war, and if so, there would be dire consequences for Iranians in Iran and around the world. Dr. Thomas Juneau is a former analyst for the Department of National Defence, and a professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in Middle East (Iran, Yemen) security and intelligence. He talks to us about justification for war (intelligence vs. politics), potential outcomes, and implications including here in Canada in our feature interview (3:15) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 47:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after the Juneau interview, and reflect on our March 11 Iranian-Canadian Round Table. Real Talkers chime in via the Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:16:00 | Four MPs - three Conservatives and now a New Democrat - have crossed the floor to Mark Carney's Liberal government. What do you think about Nunavut MP Lori Idlout's move?  SEND US AN EMAIL: talk@ryanjespersen.com  BUY YOUR FULL HOUSE LOTTERY TICKETS TODAY: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Watching coverage of the war in Iran can feel complicated, distant, and hard to follow. We see reports about strikes on military targets, escalating tensions, and global powers trying to prevent a wider conflict. But for millions of people around the world (and tens of thousands in Canada), this story isn’t abstract. It’s personal. In our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, we’re joined by three Iranian-Canadians from our home city of Edmonton: Reza Akbari, Pegah Salari, and Nooran Ostadeian (4:00). Each has deep ties to Iran. Each has friends or family who are still there. And like many in the Iranian diaspora, they know speaking publicly can come with real risks for the people they love. For them—and for many others—the biggest fear right now isn’t just the bombs falling on military targets. It’s what might happen if the regime survives this crisis. They explain why in one of the most informative and powerful Real Talk Round Tables we've ever presented. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwes... TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com THE FULL HOUSE LOTTERY BONUS DEADLINE is TODAY (MARCH 11) at MIDNIGHT! GET YOUR TICKETS: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz 1:32:15 | The Jasper Pride & Ski Festival is less than a month away! We celebrate the only Pride ski week in the Canadian Rockies in this edition of #MyJasper Memories proudly presented by Tourism Jasper. MORE DETAILS: https://www.jasperpride.ca/ PLAN YOUR JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

October 19, 2026 will be a huge day in Alberta. A couple million people will vote on at least nine (and probably eleven) questions that could forever alter the province's future. There's a heavy focus on immigration policy, along with proposals for big changes to judicial appointments, federal funding transfers, and abolishing the Senate. And, of course, it's expected Albertans will vote on the province's future in (or outside of) Canada and coal mining in the Rocky Mountains. In this episode, we go through the list - question by question - with one of the sharpest observers of Alberta politics, political science professor Dr. Duane Bratt, in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com THE FULL HOUSE LOTTERY BONUS DEADLINE is MARCH 11 at MIDNIGHT: https://bit.ly/4sWLHOz FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

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

Gary's gonna wash a few mouths out with soap, Don's sick of Pete Hegseth's "dick measuring," Coreen and Sharon have very different takes on unions, and Minnie has a reality check on doctors' salaries. 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

What are you thinking about this International Women's Day? Ahead of March 8, we pick the brains of powerhouses Dr. Shazma Mithani and Jenny Adams in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (2:30).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUOR, NOW AVAILABLE AT https://hansendistillery.com/. MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 45:00 | Women still experience discrimination while navigating the healthcare system. Dr. Mithani gets into it.  SUBSCRIBE to THE DOC TALK: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-doc-talk-podcast/id1775772809 1:03:20 | Real Talk is proud to support the Ben Stelter Foundation's Hearts & Hands Poker Tournament on April 16 & 17.  REGISTER to PLAY or SPONSOR: https://benstelterfoundation.com/ 1:05:10 | Jespo, Johnny, and Real Talkers in our Live Chat share what they'll be thinking about on International Women's Day.  WATCH OUR MENOPAUSE EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/051325Schewchuk 1:39:00 | Gary's gonna wash a few mouths out with soap, Don's sick of Pete Hegseth's "dick measuring," Coreen and Sharon have very different takes on unions, and Minnie has a reality check on doctors' salaries. 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, or BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Mark Carney and Danielle Smith have nothing to do with Donald Trump's war in Iran, but both leaders will feel the impact. Political commentator Rob Breakenridge gets into it all in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (5:00). THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR, AVAILABLE MARCH 6 AT https://hansendistillery.com/. CHECK OUT ROB'S SUBSTACK: https://robbreakenridge.substack.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 1:03:45 | We debrief re: Naheed Nenshi's NDP leadership, Rakhi Pancholi's rise, Sec. Stephen Miller's comments about the "woke Pentagon," and more. Real Talkers have their say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:30:00 | Pierre Poilievre says Net Zero is "all BS," and a conspiracy by "green grifters" to "take everybody's money away." Does the Conservative leader need to update his understanding to appeal to more voters?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:42:30 | Real Talk is proud to support the Ben Stelter Foundation's Hearts and Hands Poker Tournament on April 16 and 17.  REGISTER to PLAY and/or SPONSOR: https://benstelterfoundation.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Nobody in human history has achieved what Karl Bushby is on the verge of completing. The former British paratrooper has travelled more than 48,000 km over the past 28 years, walking around the world with human power alone. No flights, no boats, no vehicles. He takes us into his Goliath Expedition in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West (3:00).  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY -- EDMONTON'S ORIGINAL DISTILLERY. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THEIR NEW, LIMITED-RELEASE "MINI YEGGS" MILK CHOCOLATE CREAM LIQUEUR, AVAILABLE THE SECOND WEEK OF MARCH AT https://hansendistillery.com/. SEE KARL in EDMONTON: https://secure.citadeltheatre.com/overview/10719 SEE KARL (and SAM ROBERTS) in BANFF: https://www.banffcentre.ca/karl-bushby-get-him-home 48:00 | Marmot Basin offers the absolute best spring skiing in Canada. Ryan lays out the top five reasons you need to drop everything and head to Jasper in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. SKI MARMOT: https://www.skimarmot.com/ PLAN YOUR JASPER ADVENTURE: https://www.jasper.travel/ 53:40 | What's the greatest adventure you've ever embarked upon? Jespo and Johnny debrief after the Bushby interview, and see what Real Talkers have to say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 59:00 | Did you hear Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's characterization of American strikes in Iran? We bring you updated comments from Senators Elizabeth Warren and Chris Murphy, and Prime Minister Mark Carney.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The war in Iran could soon return oil to $100/barrel. It'll have big implications on the energy industry, international economies, and what consumers pay at the pump. Max Fawcett argues it should also prompt politicians like Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson to rethink their entire strategy on renewables. He explains why in our feature interview (3:30) presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RapidEX FINANCIAL. THE CRYPTO WORLD MOVES FAST, BUT YOUR TRUST IN AN EXCHANGE SHOULDN'T BE A GAMBLE. RapidEX IS SECURE, FINTRAC-REGISTERED, AND NON-CUSTODIAL. SAVE 50% ON FEES ON ONLINE INTERAC E-TRANSFER TRADES WITH PROMO CODE RYAN50 AT https://rapidexfinancial.com/. READ MAX'S COLUMN: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2026/03/03/opinion/trump-iran-attack-fossil-fuels# MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 31:30 | It's Kyle Dube Day. Ryan reflects on Kyle's incredible legacy at YOUCAN Youth Services. SUPPORT YOUCAN: https://youcan.ca/ 36:20 | Max tells us why he chose now to take aim at Naheed Nenshi's NDP leadership, and why he doesn't care one bit about whether or not Alberta stays on Daylight Saving Time.  1:17:30 | Jespo and Johnny debate the merits of staying on Standard or Daylight Saving Time.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:21:45 | Jespo reads emails from Dr. Charles in Calgary and Dr. Andrew in Edmonton, responding to Real Talker Laura's email last week about physician salaries.  1:30:00 | Jespo recaps his visit to E2 Academy. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, INSTAGRAM, and LINKEDIN: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen  JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: @ryanjespersen  REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.