The Canadian Returnee Podcast

In this podcast, we dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney’s high-stakes trip to Washington to meet with President Donald Trump. With punishing U.S. tariffs hitting Canadian steel, lumber, and autos, and renewed “51st state” rhetoric raising tensions, this summit could redefine Canada–U.S. relations. We’ll break down the political risks, trade strategies, and what’s really at stake for Canada’s economy.If you enjoy this podcast, please like, share, and subscribe. Consider supporting free content by becoming a paid subscriber or buy me a coffee to help keep these articles and podcasts free for everyone.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we break down U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth’s unprecedented order summoning nearly 800 generals and admirals to Quantico. With no clear agenda, this extraordinary move has raised alarms across the defence community, fuelling speculation about loyalty tests, mass firings, or a dramatic cultural reset of the U.S. military. We’ll explore what’s at stake, why critics are calling it “operational malpractice,” and what it could mean for America’s security posture worldwide.If you find this valuable, please like, share, and subscribe. Consider upgrading to a paid subscription to support more free articles or buy me a coffee to help keep this content accessible for everyone.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

This podcast dives into the “Canadian Returnee” and “American Refugee” two blogs exploring identity, politics, and democracy from a dual Canadian-American perspective.The first, “Canadian Returnee”, reflects on returning to Canada, personal growth, and the meaning of Canadian identity. The second, “American Refugee”, was born out of crisis: the erosion of democracy in the U.S. and the lived reality of displacement for many.Both are independent, reader-supported, and designed to foster critical thinking, reflection, and storytelling.If you enjoy this, please like, share, and subscribe. Consider upgrading to a paid subscription to support free articles or buy me a coffee to help sustain independent content.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

This podcast dives into the “Canadian Returnee” and “American Refugee” two blogs exploring identity, politics, and democracy from a dual Canadian-American perspective.The first, “Canadian Returnee”, reflects on returning to Canada, personal growth, and the meaning of Canadian identity. The second, “American Refugee”, was born out of crisis: the erosion of democracy in the U.S. and the lived reality of displacement for many.Both are independent, reader-supported, and designed to foster critical thinking, reflection, and storytelling.If you enjoy this, please like, share, and subscribe. Consider upgrading to a paid subscription to support free articles or buy me a coffee to help sustain independent content.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Alberta’s government ordered schools to pull books with “explicit sexual content” from libraries. However, when the Edmonton Public School Board flagged over 200 titles, including classics like 1984, The Handmaid’s Tale, and The Great Gatsby, the backlash was immediate.Authors, educators, and civil liberties groups condemned the move, with Margaret Atwood’s sharp criticism drawing global attention. Facing mounting outrage, Premier Danielle Smith and Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides paused the policy and promised revisions to target only books with graphic images.This podcast unpacks how a push by “parents’ rights” groups set off a culture war in Alberta classrooms, why critics call it an attack on LGBTQ+ youth and free expression, and what the government’s retreat means for the future of Canadian schools.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is back in Parliament after winning a decisive byelection in Alberta’s Battle River–Crowfoot riding. His return comes just months after losing his long-held seat in Ontario, but this victory, though expected in a Conservative stronghold, sets the stage for bigger tests ahead.With national polls showing the Liberals under Prime Minister Mark Carney in a commanding lead, Poilievre faces a critical leadership review in January and mounting questions about his appeal in Ontario. From tackling economic issues like inflation and housing to shaking off comparisons to Donald Trump, Poilievre must now prove he can evolve into a leader capable of winning nationally.If this podcast interests you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more stories like this, or buy me a coffee to keep independent voices alive.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Canada is facing one of the toughest trade battles in decades as new U.S. tariffs bite deep, but our resolve has never been stronger. From boycotting American goods and travel to fuelling a homegrown industrial push, Canadians are choosing resilience over reliance. In this episode, we unpack the politics, the public mood, and the power shifts shaping the future of our economy and identity. If this conversation moves you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more stories like this, or buy me a coffee to keep independent voices alive.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

As of August 1, 2025, a fresh wave of U.S. tariffs, now up to 35%, has hit Canadian goods hard. President Trump’s latest move has shaken trade ties, sent consumer prices soaring, and put jobs across the country at risk. From steel to groceries, the impact is real, and for many Canadians, it feels deeply personal. In this podcast, we unpack the mounting tension, the political undercurrents, and how Canada is responding with resolve and calls for economic self-reliance.If this helped you understand the big picture, please share it with a friend, hit subscribe, or buy me a coffee to support more content like this.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when a government fast-tracks development without real Indigenous consultation? In this podcast, we unpack the growing backlash to Bill C-5.Prime Minister Mark Carney’s “Building Canada Act” promises infrastructure in the name of progress. However, many First Nations say it was drafted and passed without them, undermining treaty rights, sidelining consent, and ignoring urgent social needs. While Inuit leaders have received reassurances, First Nations chiefs describe the process as political theatre, sparking legal action and threats of national protest.We explore the political fault lines, community responses, and what this moment reveals about power, reconciliation, and the future of Indigenous–Crown relations. If this speaks to you, please share it, refer a friend, subscribe, or buy me a coffee.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

One year after the Jasper wildfire scorched a third of the town and claimed the life of a young firefighter, the scars, political, environmental, and emotional, are still raw.In this podcast, we explore the newly released after-action report that uncovers what happened behind the scenes. While local responders and Parks Canada worked with unity and grit, their efforts were complicated by unexpected interference from the Alberta government. The result? Delays, confusion, and painful lessons in jurisdictional overreach.We go beyond the headlines to hear how the town of Jasper is rebuilding one tree, one family, one campground at a time. You’ll hear how a devastated tourism economy is trying to rebound, and how charred forests are giving way to sweeping views and new hope.This is a story of fire, failure, resilience, and renewal. If this moved you, please share it, refer a friend, subscribe, or buy me a coffee.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Canadian travel to the United States is plummeting, and it’s not just a blip. In this podcast, we unpack the powerful forces behind a historic shift in tourism trends and ask what it means for our economy, our values, and the future of cross-border travel.From dramatic drops in B.C. border crossings to billions in lost U.S. tourism revenue, Canadians are sending a clear message: enough is enough. Fuelled by trade disputes, “51st state” rhetoric, and rising anti-Canadian sentiment from Washington, this travel boycott is deeply personal. We hear from Canadians who are rethinking their spending, choosing to invest in local experiences or turning to Europe instead of heading south. At the same time, U.S. tourism to Canada is dipping, but there's a silver lining: international travellers are increasingly drawn to Canada as a standalone destination, not just an add-on to the American itinerary.What does this mean for tourism, diplomacy, and national identity? Is this the beginning of a permanent reset in how we travel and why?If this resonates with you, consider subscribing, sharing it with a friend, or buying me a coffee.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we break down the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act, President Donald Trump’s 900-page tax and spending package that’s shaking Washington. From tax cuts and child savings accounts to steep cuts in food stamps, Medicaid, and student loans, this bill touches nearly every corner of American life. We’ll unpack its political fallout, rising deficits, impacts on low-income Americans, and its bold shift in economic priorities from green tech to coal and border walls.Is this a path to prosperity or a political time bomb? Listen now for a perspective on the bill making headlines worldwide.Please like, subscribe, share with a friend, or buy me a coffee to support more in-depth content! ☕This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we examine Bill C-5, the federal government's sweeping "One Canadian Economy Act" and its deep implications for Indigenous sovereignty, environmental protection, and democratic governance. While marketed as a nation-building tool to remove interprovincial trade barriers and fast-track major infrastructure projects, critics argue it represents a dangerous overreach that bypasses consultation and threatens the rights of First Nations and environmental safeguards.We explore why the bill was split into two parts by the House Speaker, why both major parties support it, and why Indigenous leaders, youth activists, and environmental groups are uniting in opposition. From warnings of a “long hot summer” to calls for meaningful consultation and respect for free, prior, and informed consent, this podcast reveals the high stakes behind Bill C-5, including its ties to Arctic sovereignty, resource extraction, and Canada's constitutional commitments.🔥 If you care about Indigenous rights, the environment, or the future of Canadian democracy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.📬 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with friends or colleagues.☕ Enjoying the content? Consider buying me a coffee to support more research-driven analysis on Canadian policy and politics.Let’s keep the conversation going because this story is far from over.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Canada is experiencing its second-worst wildfire season on record, with over 3.7 million hectares already scorched as of mid-June 2025, six times the annual average. In this podcast, we break down where the fires are worst, why climate and drought conditions are fuelling them, and how communities, especially in the Prairies and British Columbia, are being forced to evacuate.With 225 active wildfires, over half of them out of control and smoke reaching Europe and central Russia, this is a truly global crisis. You'll hear about calls for a national wildfire fighting agency, the federal response, and how international crews from the U.S., Australia, and Costa Rica are stepping in to help.As temperatures rise and dry conditions persist into July and August, the risk remains dangerously high. This podcast explains what’s at stake, who is taking action, and what we can learn from the escalating emergency.If you found this informative, please like, subscribe, and share it with a friend. For deeper insights, visit the blog or Buy Me a Coffee. Your support helps keep the conversation going on Canada’s most pressing climate and policy issues.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we pay tribute to the incredible life and legacy of Marc Garneau, who passed away at 76. As Canada’s first astronaut, he logged nearly 30 days in space, forever changing how Canadians see themselves on the world stage. But his journey didn’t end there. Garneau served as a respected Member of Parliament for 15 years, holding cabinet roles as Transport Minister and Foreign Minister. His leadership, humility, and unwavering dedication to public service inspired a generation to dream big, explore boldly, and serve with purpose. Join us as we explore his remarkable story from his early days in the Royal Canadian Navy to his tenure in Parliament and his reflections on Earth’s fragility from space. Let’s celebrate a national hero who truly embodied the spirit of service. Like, subscribe, and refer a friend to share Garneau’s story. For more Canadian insights, visit our blog or buy us a coffee to keep these inspiring stories coming!This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

Wildfire Watch: Saskatchewan & Manitoba Under SiegeJoin us as we dive into the devastating wildfire crisis sweeping across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. This season has seen record-breaking blazes, fuelled by hot, dry, and windy conditions worsened by climate change. Thousands are under evacuation orders, with Indigenous communities disproportionately affected. Infrastructure damage, stretched resources, and dire weather forecasts add to the challenge. We explore the root causes, the immediate impacts on residents, and what’s being done to protect lives and communities.👉 Like, subscribe, and share this podcast to stay updated on Canada’s wildfire season.🔥 Visit our blog for in-depth articles, and buy me a coffee to support independent journalism.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we break down Prime Minister Mark Carney's sweeping new vision for Canada following his election win. With a single, streamlined mandate letter replacing individual cabinet directives, Carney is signalling a unified, results-driven approach to federal governance, one that he says meets a “generational challenge.”From boosting productivity and redefining Canada–U.S. economic ties, to addressing housing affordability and reforming immigration, this podcast explores the seven core priorities laid out by Carney’s new government. We’ll discuss how his leadership style differs from Justin Trudeau’s, what it means for Canadian sovereignty and defence, and why cabinet ministers are now being held to clearly defined goals.We also look at challenges ahead: regional divides, internal Liberal dynamics, and the high stakes of delivering key promises by Canada Day. Whether you’re concerned about affordability, trade, or the future of Canadian governance, this episode is your go-to overview.👉 If you enjoy the show, please like, subscribe, and refer a friend.💬 Visit our blog for in-depth analysis or Buy Me a Coffee to support more content like this.🇨🇦 Thanks for listening and supporting Canadian independent commentary!This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we break down why Alberta's push for separation, through Bill 54 and the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, is sparking fierce opposition from First Nations leaders.Indigenous communities across Treaty 6, 7, and 8 territories argue that any referendum on Alberta’s separation from Canada threatens constitutionally protected treaty rights, which were signed with the Crown and cannot be overridden by a provincial government.Despite recent amendments that claim to protect treaty rights, Indigenous leaders remain unconvinced and are reviving lawsuits and preparing constitutional challenges.We also explore a deeper question: if Alberta claims the right to separate, what rights might Indigenous nations claim in return?👥 Like what you hear? Please like, subscribe, and share this podcast with a friend.☕ Support us and keep the conversation going: Buy Me a Coffee📰 Dive deeper and explore written coverage on the blog: The Canadian ReturneeHelp amplify Indigenous voices in the national conversation. Hit play now.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we dive into the unprecedented surge in outbound inspections by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at key B.C.–Washington state crossings, including Peace Arch and Pacific Highway. Canadians returning home are facing wait times of up to 3.5 hours, and even Nexus holders aren’t spared. What’s fuelling this shift in U.S. border tactics, and why now?Immigration lawyer Len Saunders, with 25 years of experience in Blaine, calls the inspections "very strange" and questions the lack of transparency. Despite CBP citing national security and contraband seizures, the actual results seem minimal: a few hundred rounds of ammo and some narcotics. Meanwhile, cross-border traffic from Canada has dropped over 50%, devastating small-town economies like Blaine’s, where businesses rely on Canadian shoppers.We explore the legal, political, and economic ripple effects of these "non-random" vehicle searches, their impact on privacy, and the growing frustrations of travellers and local officials on both sides of the border. If you’re a frequent crosser, a border town resident, or simply curious about the U.S.–Canada dynamic, this one’s for you.💬 Like what you hear? Help us keep independent Canadian commentary alive:✅ Like & Subscribe📣 Refer a friend☕ Buy me a coffee to support more in-depth reportingThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.#CanadaUSBorder #PeaceArchDelay #CBPInspections #CrossBorderTravel #CanadianPolitics #BlaineWashington #CanadianPodcast #BorderCheckpoints #NationalSecurityCanada #BCTravel #CBPOutboundChecks #NexusHolders #CanadianNews Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, we dive deep into the intensifying tensions between Alberta and the federal government following developments around the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER), Bill 54, and a growing separatist undercurrent. Premier Danielle Smith has launched a constitutional court challenge against Ottawa’s clean energy policy, arguing it overreaches into Alberta’s jurisdiction. At the same time, her government’s push to lower the referendum threshold has sparked fierce backlash, not only from political opponents but also from First Nations leaders who assert that any move toward separation requires their full consent, grounded in historic treaty rights.We unpack the stakes of Alberta’s legal fight, explore the oilpatch’s demands to Prime Minister Mark Carney, and examine why First Nations are warning against what they see as manufactured national disunity. Is Alberta truly heading toward a referendum on separation, or is this more political leverage than real intent? How does this moment compare to past waves of Western alienation? And what role does the energy sector play in shaping the provincial-federal power struggle?This is a pivotal moment in Canadian politics, and we’re here to break it down.👉 If you value in-depth Canadian political analysis, like, subscribe, and refer a friend.📰 Visit the blog for full transcripts and more.☕ Support independent commentary by buying me a coffee; every drop fuels deeper dives.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.#AlbertaSeparatism #DanielleSmith #MarkCarney #CanadianPolitics #FirstNationsRights #CleanElectricity #CER #WesternAlienation #TreatyRights #AlbertaEnergy #FederalismCanada #CanadaUnityCrisis Get full access to Canadian Returnee at canadianreturnee.substack.com/subscribe