NOW and NEXT

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT!This week:I had the chance to join Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010 for his PARTY OF TWO.Canadian Curlers dropping F-bombs after being accused of cheating in MilanToronto's answer to snow removal? Wait for warmer weather.Cheers to Crown Royal! Doug Ford backs off threats to ban the whisky from LCBOShould business consider allowing employees to take paid sabbaticals?You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on NOW and NEXT:A shrinking landscape for transparency. In this episode of Now and Next, Dave Trafford sits down with veteran journalist Dean Beeby to examine why fewer Canadians — including journalists — are filing Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.Beeby reflects on how FOI once powered major investigative work, but today faces systemic delays, heavy redactions, vague legal definitions, and rising administrative costs that produce fewer results. As journalism accelerates toward instant reaction and digital churn, governments have slowed the machinery of transparency. The result? A system that often delivers information long after its “best before” date — if at all.The conversation explores the collapse of newsroom resources, the inefficiencies of paper-based government systems in a digital era, escalating court battles over mandate letters and cellphone records, and why legal ambiguity benefits bureaucracy.Yet there is a modest bright spot: the federal Information Commissioner’s expanded authority to order document releases.This episode asks a critical question: What are we losing when depth gives way to speed — and transparency becomes optional?Chapters00:00 – IntroductionDT introduces Dean Beeby and the shrinking use of FOI requests.01:07 – Journalism’s Speed vs. Government’s SlowdownWhy reporters are abandoning FOI as delays grow longer.06:07 – Delays, Redactions & Fewer UsersHeavily censored documents and falling public participation.11:20 – Paper Systems in a Digital AgeGovernment inefficiencies driving rising costs.16:23 – Legal Battles & The Push for ReformMandate letters, cellphone records, and the Information Commissioner’s new powers.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT! This week: I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.Donald Trump posts a racist meme about the ObamasTrump's social media tirade about the Gordie Howe Bridge and China stealing the Stanley Cup.The cost of Mark Carney's international travel fuels the rage farmAnd surely, the NFL needs to rethink its Super Bowl halftime show.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on RADIO DAYS: I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.Toronto Public Health spends $200k on giveaway condoms at FIFA World CupPierre Poilevre wins the room in Calgary. Can he win the hearts of Canadians?Canada Revenue Agency workers are misbehaving on the job.Days before the Olympics kick off in Italy, there's no running water in the hockey rink in Milan.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

I sat in on ROUND ONE on Moore in the Morning on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto.Marit Stiles loses her Deputy Leader to Team CarneyToronto bars can offer their first pour at 6am during the Cortina GamesStephen Harper preaches mature politics the same day Pierre Poilevre has a sit down with Mark Carney.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

Here are **robust show notes** for this episode of **Now and Next**, using **only information from the provided transcript**.---## Now and Next — Episode Show Notes**Host:** Dave Trafford**Guests:** Bob Reid, Anne-Marie Aikins, Lindsay BroadheadThis episode of *Now and Next* brings the C.A.S.T. (Comms And Strategy Team) back together for a wide-ranging discussion on leadership, political tone, and credibility in a rapidly shifting media environment.The conversation opens with an in-depth analysis of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Davos speech and why it continues to resonate weeks later. Panelists explore how the speech marked a clear pivot in Canada’s global posture and aligned closely with current public attitudes, as reflected in recent polling.From there, the discussion turns to how Carney’s approach reshaped expectations for opposition leaders—particularly Pierre Poilievre—and how his Calgary speech signaled a tonal adjustment toward optimism and hope. The panel examines the emerging contrast between “global leadership” and “kitchen-table politics,” debating whether Carney can translate high-level strategy into tangible, day-to-day outcomes for Canadians.The episode closes with a sobering look at misinformation and deepfakes, sparked by a viral but fake video attributed to Warren Buffett. The panel considers the implications for political communications, public trust, and the growing difficulty of distinguishing authenticity from manipulation in what some are calling a “post-news” era. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS WEEK ON NOW AND NEXT RADIO DAYS!I had the chance to join Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010 for his PARTY OF TWO. We covered municipal, provincial, and federal politics as well as couples hooking up to save on rent!Toronto mayor’s 2026 budget keeps 2.2% property tax increaseDoug Ford touts a fourth term in speech at Tory convention Saturday nightImmigration minister says struggling universities must ask provinces for helpToronto daters are moving in together quickly to save on rent. It’s a risky moveYou can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

This week:I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.We talked about the 50th anniversary of Darryl Sittler's 10 point game against the Boston Bruins; the international vs domestic implications of Mark Carney's Davos speech; and the "civil war" in Minneapolis You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS WEEK ON NOW AND NEXTRetired RCAF Major General Scott Clancy discusses the evolving landscape of global security, the implications of American foreign policy, and Canada's role in the new world order. He emphasizes the complexities surrounding defense spending, military readiness, and the future of NATO amidst geopolitical instability. Clancy argues for the necessity of strong leadership to navigate these challenges and the importance of trust in international alliances.TakeawaysThe world is increasingly dangerous due to shifting power dynamics.The American century is not necessarily over, but evolving.Canada's leadership on the global stage is crucial.Defense spending must be prioritized to ensure military readiness.Bureaucratic hurdles hinder effective defense procurement.NATO's effectiveness relies on trust among member nations.Geopolitical instability is a growing concern for all nations.Leadership is key to navigating complex defense issues.Public perception of defense spending impacts political decisions.A strong Canada is essential for global security.Chapters00:00 The State of Global Security02:58 The American Century: Decline or Transformation?05:56 Canada's Role in the New World Order08:52 Defense Spending and Military Readiness11:40 Navigating Complex Defense Decisions14:49 The Future of NATO and Global Alliances17:53 Geopolitical Instability and Its ImplicationsYou can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on NOW and NEXT:David Schultz is a professor of politcal science and and a legal expert on the U.S. Constitution. He teaches at  Hamline University in Minnesota AND he's also the Editor in Chief of the Minneapolis Times.He brings a unique perspective to the international and domestic poltics playing out in the United States this week.We dive into the Circus in Davos - from Canadian PM Mark Carney offiicially declaring the old world order a thing of the past to Donald Trump's insistence on the United State acquiring Greenland to his whiplash reversal in the face of opposition from NATO and Wall Street.David also offers his perspective on the occupation of Minnesota by ICE and US Border Patrol agents. He likens it to a pending civil war.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT!This week:I sat in on ROUND ONE on Moore in the Morning on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT!This week:I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT!This week:I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT!This week:.I sat in on ROUND ONE on Moore in the Morning on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT! This week: I had the chance to join Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010 for his PARTY OF TWO.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT! This week: I dropped in on Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB Niagara’s News Talk.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

Amelia Earhart is one of the best known women in aviation in the world, but most have no idea she has deep roots in Toronto. In fact, some say a Toronto woman was the last person to ever hear Earhart over a shortwave radio.Featured voices in this episode:Chantal Gagnon, Historica CanadaKen Swartz, Canadian Aviation Historical SocietyRic Gillespie, International Group for Historic Aircraft RecoveryRCAF Foundation Scholarship Recipient, Ryan KhourchidPathway to the Stars is made possible by the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation.Find out more about them at rcaffoundation.caPlease share about this special series. If you do, tag both Story Studio Network and the RCAF Foundation to help spread the word.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

We all know Billy Bishop, the Toronto Island airport is named after him! So why don’t we know about William Barker? Barker was Bishop’s best friend and colleague, the most decorated serviceman in Commonwealth history and, to this date, his funeral was the largest ever to be held in Toronto.Featured voices in this episode:Jason Wilson, Professor of History, University of GuelphJohn Wright, Executive Vice President of Maru Public Opinion, serves as Honorary Colonel for the Chief of the Defence Staff Office and Chair of the RCAF Foundation.Rod Black, Sports BroadcasterRCAF Scholarship recipeient Evan SchonfeldtPathway to the Stars is made possible by the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation.Find out more about them at rcaffoundation.caPlease share about this special series.If you do, tag both Story Studio Network and the RCAF Foundation to help spread the word.Instagram:@storystudionetwork@rcaf_foundationFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/storystudionetwork/https://www.facebook.com/rcaffoundationTwitter:twitter.com/storystudionettwitter.com/rcaf_foundationLinkedIn:linkedin.com/company/story-studio-networklinkedin.com/company/rcaf-foundationYou can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

Now and Next – June 24, 2025Host: Dave TraffordGuests: Anne-Marie Aikins (AMA Communications), Bob Reid (Broadway Strategy), Lindsay Broadhead (Broadhead Communications)In the final episode before a summer break, host Dave Trafford and the NOW AND NEXT C.A.S.T., (Comms And Strategy Team), tackle growing concerns over Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow’s leadership. The panel digs into the controversy around pool closures during a major heatwave—an issue that’s become emblematic of a deeper, recurring pattern of communications stumbles and public mismanagement by the mayor’s office.From blaming staff and past administrations to vague, delayed responses, the team highlights how Chow’s failure to take ownership is eroding public trust. They contrast her handling of crises with more direct, action-oriented leadership styles seen in figures like Doug Ford and Rob Ford. The conversation also considers the cumulative impact of these missteps on Chow’s reelection prospects, especially as political challengers begin to circle.Later, the panel unpacks Toronto’s latest move to create a “traffic czar” to deal with congestion—another decision that seems more about optics than real solutions. The team questions whether adding new titles without clear accountability can truly fix broken systems.Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Summer Break UpdateDave sets the stage for the summer hiatus and introduces the panel.01:12 – Pool Closures and a Pattern of DeflectionThe team dissects the city’s delayed, disjointed response to the pool shutdowns, calling it another chapter in a series of recurring communications failures.07:00 – Missed Messaging and Leadership GapsPanelists analyze how Chow’s press presence consistently lacks clarity, urgency, and ownership—traits essential for modern leadership.22:00 – What This Means for ReelectionDiscussion shifts to Chow’s political vulnerability, examining whether she can pivot in time to recover public trust.36:00 – Traffic Czar: Leadership or Lip Service?Critique of the city’s congestion “solution” and the optics of passing the buck to a newly created role.44:00 – Wrap-Up and What’s Coming This SummerDave previews upcoming special episodes and invites listeners to stay subscribed during the break.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.

Now and Next –June 10, 2025Host: Dave TraffordGuests: Anne-Marie Aikins (AMA Communications), Lindsay Broadhead (Broadhead Communications), Bob Reid (Broadway Strategy)Summary:In this episode of Now and Next, host Dave Trafford is joined by our C.A.S.T. (Comms And Strategy Team) Anne-Marie Aikins, Lindsay Broadhead, and Bob Reid for a dynamic conversation that begins with a reflection on the 30th anniversary of Ontario’s Common Sense Revolution. The panel dissects the political legacy of Mike Harris and how it continues to echo in Canadian politics. The discussion transitions to the nature of protests—historic and contemporary—with particular focus on recent unrest in Los Angeles, the influence of social media, and the blurred lines between activism and insurrection. The episode closes with a forward-looking view on the upcoming G7 meeting and the political ramifications for leaders like Mark Carney and Donald Trump.Chapters:00:00 – IntroductionDave introduces the regular panel and sets the stage with Bob Reid’s reflection on the 30th anniversary of the Common Sense Revolution.00:56 – Mike Harris and the 1995 Election StrategyReid recounts his time as press secretary for Mike Harris and how early branding and clear messaging shaped a surprise win.10:07 – Protest Then and NowAnne-Marie reflects on how protest culture evolved from her early activism to today’s often volatile public demonstrations.17:21 – Violence, Messaging, and Hijacked MovementsThe team analyzes how emotion-driven protests are often derailed by fringe elements, distorting the original message.24:13 – Civil Rights vs. Today’s TacticsDrawing contrasts between disciplined, strategic protests of the 60s and chaotic modern demonstrations, the panel questions effectiveness and media portrayal.33:08 – G7 Summit and Global StakesAs the world prepares for the G7 summit, the discussion turns to how leaders like Carney and Trump will navigate political pressure and geopolitical optics.You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!)Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and XAnd you can leave us a voice comment here!For more information go to Dave's website.