Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

Elizabeth May reversed course on Mark Carney's first budget, ultimately voting in favour of it (helping the Liberals' minority government survive). What went on behind the scenes? The Green Party leader and longtime MP tells us what changed her mind (6:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, a proud made in Alberta solution offering crypto your way. First-time users get 50% off with the exclusive code RYAN50 at https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 41:00 | Corb Lund's fight against Big Coal continues. The country music star tells us why he believes politicians and coal companies are lying to Albertans, and lays out his plan to stop mining in the Eastern Slopes.  1:12:40 | Shout out to Team You Need A BBQ for their perfect score at "the Super Bowl of BBQ" in Kansas City! The Sherwood Park team's first place win at the Royal World Series of BBQ is this week's Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WHEN YOU MAKE A MINIMUM $50 DEPOSIT WITH CODE RYAN50 ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR AT https://playalberta.ca/ 1:16:00 | Jespo sounds off on the closure of a supervised consumption site for inpatients at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. We debrief on Elizabeth May's comments about Pierre Poilievre (1:25:00) and the West Coast tanker ban (1:47:00). Johnny has thoughts on Marjorie Taylor Greene's "turnaround" (1:53:00). Who was the lone vote against releasing the Epstein files (1:55:30)? Did you see the remarkable moment in the Oval Office involving Donald Trump, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and ABC's Mary Bruce (2:01:00)?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  2:14:00 | It's an all-Bill 9 edition of The Flamethrower, as Real Talkers Jill, Erin, Robert, Josef, "Ins Piration," Brian, Karen, and Joe unload hot takes on the UCP invoking the notwithstanding clause to protect bills affecting trans Albertans. The Flamethrower is proudly presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. WHEN YOU VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, 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.

Elizabeth May reversed course on Mark Carney's first budget, ultimately voting in favour of it (helping the Liberals' minority government survive). What went on behind the scenes? The Green Party leader and longtime MP tells us what changed her mind (6:30) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL, a proud made in Alberta solution offering crypto your way. First-time users get 50% off with the exclusive code RYAN50 at https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 41:00 | Corb Lund's fight against Big Coal continues. The country music star tells us why he believes politicians and coal companies are lying to Albertans, and lays out his plan to stop mining in the Eastern Slopes.  1:12:40 | Shout out to Team You Need A BBQ for their perfect score at "the Super Bowl of BBQ" in Kansas City! The Sherwood Park team's first place win at the Royal World Series of BBQ is this week's Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WHEN YOU MAKE A MINIMUM $50 DEPOSIT WITH CODE RYAN50 ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR AT https://playalberta.ca/ 1:16:00 | Jespo sounds off on the closure of a supervised consumption site for inpatients at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. We debrief on Elizabeth May's comments about Pierre Poilievre (1:25:00) and the West Coast tanker ban (1:47:00). Johnny has thoughts on Marjorie Taylor Greene's "turnaround" (1:53:00). Who was the lone vote against releasing the Epstein files (1:55:30)? Did you see the remarkable moment in the Oval Office involving Donald Trump, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and ABC's Mary Bruce (2:01:00)?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  2:14:00 | It's an all-Bill 9 edition of The Flamethrower, as Real Talkers Jill, Erin, Robert, Josef, "Ins Piration," Brian, Karen, and Joe unload hot takes on the UCP invoking the notwithstanding clause to protect bills affecting trans Albertans. The Flamethrower is proudly presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. WHEN YOU VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD, BE SURE TO TELL 'EM REAL TALK SENT YOU!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, 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 UCP government is going back to the notwithstanding clause for the second time in three weeks, in this case to protect three laws dealing specifically with transgender youth. Supporters of Premier Danielle Smith's strategy with Bill 9 say it ensures parents are involved in major decisions. Critics say it's an attack on rights and protections the LGBTQ2S+ rely on.  9:00 | Dr. Glynnis Lieb and Anna Murphy talk about the very real impacts they expect these laws to have on vulnerable youth in Alberta.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  FYREFLY INSTITUTE: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/fyrefly-institute/index.html 42:00 | Rumour has it Alberta and Ottawa are close to a deal that includes a new oil pipeline to the B.C. coast. Arno Kopecky, author of The Oil Man and the Sea, tells us about his four-month sailing expedition through B.C.'s north coast, and lays out opposition PM Mark Carney and Premier Smith can expect once the deal's announced. (Arno jumps back in at 1:26:00 to comment on Angus Reid polling on Canadians' support/opposition re: a new pipeline.) CHECK OUT ARNO'S BOOK: https://douglas-mcintyre.com/products/9781771001076?srsltid=AfmBOooXsUSpgerNAkCSDuQf0pD2Cf3OiJX13RPAqffax9KA2lmHIl5B 1:16:00 | Jespo and Johnny dive into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your takes on what we're hearing.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:31:20 | If you haven't yet checked out The Maligne Range in Jasper, drop everything and head out there! We feature this stunning new distillery in this week's MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  THE MALIGNE RANGE: https://themalignerange.com/ EXPLORE JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:38:00 | We get to more of your comments on new pipelines and the notwithstanding clause. If you missed chiming in live, leave a comment below!  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.

Your holiday plans won't be interrupted by another federal election, as Mark Carney's minority Liberal government survives its third confidence vote in as many weeks, passing the federal budget by a vote of 170-168. We talk to Canada's National Observer lead columnist Max Fawcett (6:20) about the factors at play (including promises made), and where everything goes from here. 38:30 | Max argues Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's pipeline math doesn't add up. We take a quick look at Globe & Mail reporter Carrie Tait's exclusive on "flexibly-participating doctors" who'd work a parallel public/private format.  READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/11/18/opinion/alberta-pipeline-economics-danielle-smith 1:19:15 | Adele was 24 weeks pregnant with identical twins when she was admitted to the Royal Alexandra Hospital's Antepartum Unit. For the next 62 days, amid considerable stress, she found something beautiful. Adele's story is this week's Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.  GIVE TO THE ROYAL ALEX: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ SHARE YOUR ECHO of the ALEX STORY: 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.

Today's the day we'll find out if PM Mark Carney's minority government survives. Will the Liberals be able to find those two votes outside their caucus, or will enough Opposition MPs abstain from voting to allow Carney's minority government survive? Minister Eleanor Olszewski (4:00) tells us where her head's at heading into the vote.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Support the YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign by purchasing a limited-edition bottle of Whisky Rose. Pick them up in person at Hansen Distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton. https://hansendistillery.com/ 32:00 | Supriya Dwivedi's got takes on Grey Cup, the budget vote (37:30), Trump, Epstein, and MTG (51:00), and Wayne Gretzky's recent podcast interview (58:00).  1:00:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Marjorie Taylor Greene story. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:11:00 | Wayne Gretzky (sort of) talks about his friendship with Donald Trump on the 100% Hockey podcast. We get takes from Jespo, Johnny, and Real Talkers in the Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:39:00 | Real Talker Travis (co-host of the 2 and Out CFL Podcast) shares his Positive Reflection after watching his Riders win the 112th Grey Cup in person. Positive Reflections is proudly presented by our friends at Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: 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.

Cam in a Pizzeria says public debates about minimum wage are missing major details, Coreen and Robert have thoughts on our Nov. 12 Brian Lilley interview, Jason has a theory about MP Matt Jeneroux's early retirement, Chris has a message for would-be homebuyers, and Laura says she's willing to go to jail to fight for workers' rights. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, 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.

Rural Alberta is not backing down. In recent town halls, long-time farmers and landowners jeered senior UCP political staffers pitching the government’s plan for cleaning up decades of oil and gas well problems. They see broken trust — and they’re demanding real accountability. In this episode, we’re joined by Drew Anderson of The Narwhal (3:00), who’s been in the thick of this coverage. He’ll help us make sense of the divide: the Alberta of tight-knit rural communities, and the Alberta of big-oil power brokers. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL. GET CRYPTO YOUR WAY - ANYTIME, ANYWHERE - WITH MADE-IN-ALBERTA RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 39:00 | Real Talkers have their say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power. Jespo shares a personal story about activist Wiebo Ludwig.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 48:30 | We dig into a story that's flying under the radar, but it’s hitting a lot of Canadian veterans right where it hurts — literally. Veterans Affairs has quietly rolled out major changes to its coverage of shockwave therapy, a non-invasive treatment many vets say has been the only thing that’s actually kept them moving, working, and out of chronic pain. Echelon Wellness CEO Igor Gimelshtein tells us why he thinks VAC is making a mistake.  1:15:45 | Cam in a Pizzeria says public debates about minimum wage are missing major details, Coreen and Robert have thoughts on our Nov. 12 Brian Lilley interview, Jason has a theory about MP Matt Jeneroux's early retirement, Chris has a message for would-be homebuyers, and Laura says she's willing to go to jail to fight for workers' rights. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, 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.

Many Albertans expected more of a splash from Naheed Nenshi. The leader of Alberta's Official Opposition NDP - formerly the mayor of Calgary - hasn't secured as much of the spotlight as some expected. Look no further than the very first comments in our Real Talk Live Chat the minute this episode started streaming. That's exactly where we begin our conversation with Nenshi (12:15) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Pick up a bottle of their limited-edition Whisky Rose in support of the YWCA's Rose Campaign. Purchase in person at the distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton.  HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ ROSE CAMPAIGN: https://ywcaofedmonton.org/events/rose-campaign/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 9:00 | Why is the Alberta NDP releasing a campaign video right now? Real Talkers see it here first as we tee up our conversation with Opposition leader Naheed Nenshi. 12:15 | Nenshi talks minimum wage, pipelines, municipalities' relationship with the province, recall legislation, and classroom complexities.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  41:40 | Did you know an Alberta scientist deserves credit for saving literally millions of lives over the past hundred years? Real Talker "Dr. D" shares the story of Dr. James Collip in this edition of Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta. SCORE A $50 CASINO BONUS WHEN YOU DEPOSIT MINIMUM $50 WITH CODE RYAN50 ON THE PLAY ALBERTA APP OR WEBSITE: https://playalberta.ca/ Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense.  45:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief on the Nenshi interview, including Real Talkers' takes on minimum wage.  48:15 | We heard a lot about "classroom complexities" through the Alberta teachers' strike. What's the right way to invest in and manage complex classrooms? Public School Boards' Association of Alberta president Dennis MacNeil and Kids Included CEO Amber Mack lay it out in a Real Talk Round Table discussion.  PSBAA: https://public-schools.ab.ca/ KIDS INCLUDED: https://www.kidsincluded.ca/ 1:26:45 | Real Talkers share their firsthand experiences with complex classrooms, and we discuss Canada's military recruitment woes based on comments in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:45:00 | What about a MAXIMUM wage in Canada? Let us know what you think - leave a comment below!  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.

Bombshell emails released just moments before we started streaming this episode suggest Donald Trump hasn't exactly been truthful about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and his knowledge of what was going on. Jespo and Johnny open the show with what the emails (released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee) imply, and what remains to be seen.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 33:45 | Sounds like Pierre Poilievre isn't the only federal party leader staring down a caucus revolt. Conservative commentator Brian Lilley dishes on blowback Mark Carney's facing from Liberal MPs unhappy about the direction of Canada's EV mandate. Real Talk feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 57:45 | Brian takes on the Trump/Epstein story, and tells us what he's hearing about Liberal efforts to recruit unhappy Conservative MPs. Plus, in a Real Talk scoop, Brian lays out the real reason* Chris d'Entremont crossed the floor.  *may not actually be the real reason READ BRIAN'S WORK: https://torontosun.com/opinion/columnists/chris-dentremont-crosses-floor-liberals-politics-over-principle 1:16:30 | Now's the perfect time to shop in Jasper for the perfect Christmas gift! We've got details - including Moonlight Madness on November 21 - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  PLAN YOUR JASPER SHOPPING GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/christmas-in-jasper/ 1:33:00 | Did you see the UCP-branded wreath at the St. Albert Remembrance Day ceremony? It wasn't on Ryan's radar until Real Talkers brought it up in the Live Chat powered by Park Power. What do you think about it? Leave a comment below! SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:35:45 | Real Talker Carmen - a Canadian veteran - says we need to do so much more for those who served in Afghanistan. Jespo reads his email to talk@ryanjespersen.com  WATCH OUR REMEMBRANCE DAY SPECIAL: rtrj.info/111125LestWeForget 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.

Prime Minister Mark Carney calls pipelines "boring" in front of a Toronto audience, triggering protests from Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre and conservative commentators. What are we to make of such candid speech (25:00)? And what about the Liberal fishing expedition targeting frustrated Conservative MPs (5:30)? We take on the top headlines with Supriya Dwivedi in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY. Support the YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign by purchasing a limited-edition bottle of Whisky Rose. Pick them up in person at Hansen Distillery -- 17412 111 Avenue in Edmonton. https://hansendistillery.com/ 43:30 | Supriya gives us her takeaway from Zohran Mamdani's win to become New York City's next mayor, and President Donald Trump's "beautiful" plan to have the Washington Commanders new $3.7B stadium named in his honour.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: leave a comment below or shoot us an email to talk@ryanjespersen.com  1:10:00 | Did you see the story about that ostrich cull in B.C.? Jespo and Johnny check out 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/ 1:27:30 | Real Talker Sal shares a thought from the dog park in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: 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.

Rick from the Sticks draws a line from NYC's new mayor to Alberta separation, Kara's looking for more from Pierre Poilievre, Michael's not so sincere in his "thank you" to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and Anne's waiting for ballroom construction to begin at the Alberta Legislature. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, 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.

Another blow to Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives, as longtime Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux announces his resignation. What does this mean for PM Mark Carney's minority government (and the Official Opposition CPC) moving forward? We open this show with a follow up (1:30) on what the Real Talk Rumour Mill reported in our most recent episode. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 8:30 | Alberta's Dr. Ian MacNairn joins us from a Gaza hospital, where he's working in an ER on a PAMA humanitarian mission. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 30:15 | Edify Top 40 Under 40 honourees Stephanie Bach, Sheena Fitzpatrick, and Tracy Barry talk immigration, employment supports, agriculture, heavy industry, and the arts in an insightful and inspiring edition of the Real Talk Round Table.  CHECK OUT EDMONTON'S TOP 40 UNDER 40 CLASS of 2025: https://edifyedmonton.com/ 1:22:30 | Jespo and Johnny circle back on the Jeneroux resignation (and confidence vote implications), the Carney/Smith Grey Cup target for a pipeline announcement (1:33:00), and political rumours around a certain Trailer Park Boy (not really).  1:50:45 | Rick from the Sticks draws a line from NYC's new mayor to Alberta separation, Kara's looking for more from Pierre Poilievre, Michael's not so sincere in his "thank you" to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and Anne's waiting for ballroom construction to begin at the Alberta Legislature. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park!  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, 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.

The Real Talk Rumour Mill reports multiple Conservative MPs are being approached by the Liberals to join MP Chris d'Entremont and cross the floor. Rumours include two prominent Alberta MPs - one of them Conservative, one of them not. What're the chances this strategy saves PM Mark Carney from a nail-biter of a budget vote that could trigger another election? We ask Politico's Mickey Djuric (4:00) about her d'Entremont scoop, then put it all in front of strategists Zain Velji and Puneeta McBryan (11:45) in our feature interview presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ Support YWCA of Edmonton's Rose Campaign to help end violence against women and girls by purchasing a bottle (or case!) of Whisky Rose. All proceeds support the cause. Purchase in person at Hansen Distillery: 17412 111 Avenue // Edmonton, AB. 11:45 | What a story. Puneeta and Zain give us their takes on Zohran Mamdani's mercurial rise to mayor of NYC.  CHECK OUT THE STRATEGISTS LIVE on NOV. 12: https://www.showpass.com/the-strategists-live/ CONNECT WITH PUNEETA: https://www.puneeta.co/ 55:00 | Shout out to filmmaker Jenna Bailey, the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, and the creative crew at University of Lethbridge for making the new film "Brainstorm" a global success! We shine a spotlight on groundbreaking research right here in Alberta in this week's edition of Alberta Wins presented by our friends at Play Alberta. DOWNLOAD THE PLAY ALBERTA APP: https://playalberta.ca/ MUST BE 18+ TO PLAY. IF YOU GAMBLE, PLEASE USE YOUR GAMESENSE. 57:30 | Over the past year, there were more than nine thousand 9-1-1 calls relating to domestic violence in Edmonton alone. YWCA of Edmonton's Christine McCourt-Reid tells us why the Rose Campaign is vital to building healthy communities.  THE ROSE CAMPAIGN: https://ywcaofedmonton.org/events/rose-campaign/ 1:14:30 | Real Talker Rick emails in about "Winston Churchill -- the famous floor crosser". Jespo and Johnny get to Live Chat comments about Alberta nurses and health care aides voting 98% in favour of a strike and Indigenous Veterans Day. The Real Talk Live Chat is powered by Park Power.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com 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.

Mark Carney’s first federal budget is out, and it’s a bold statement from a Prime Minister trying to prove he’s not just the banker-in-chief, but a nation-builder with a plan. Billions are flowing into housing, clean energy, and industry, but does any of this actually benefit Alberta? Is Budget 2025 economic vision — or political survival disguised as one? 4:30 | We set the table by hearing from opposition party leaders Pierre Poilievre, Yves-François Blanchet, and Don Davies. 12:00 | What does this budget do to address economic lags, troubling regional trends, and Canada's housing crunch? Heather Thomson (Edmonton Chamber of Commerce), Kalen Anderson (BILD Edmonton Metro), and Mike Saunders (Qualico) give us the pros and cons of Budget 2025. We dig further into Edmonton Chamber's State of the Economy report.  CHECK OUT THE FULL REPORT: https://economy.edmontonchamber.com/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  47:15 | There's nothing like a run in the Rockies! The Jasper Rebuild Run (formerly the Pints & Pinot Run) is set to go November 29. What a great way to support this magnificent mountain town! Also, Jasper stays until December 12 are eligible to receive a digital prepaid Mastercard up to $175 with bookings through Tourism Jasper - we've got details.  REGISTER TO RUN: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/98763/rebuild-jasper-run JASPER HOTEL OFFER: https://www.jasper.travel/hotel-offer/ 52:15 | Building Alberta's Talent Future: Shauna Feth (Alberta Chambers of Commerce), Nancy Healy (Commissioner for Employers, Canada), Dr. Melanie Humphreys (Chair, Alberta Post-Secondary Network and President, The King's University), and Sabrina Reschny (Deloitte Canada) dig into Budget 2025 through an Alberta lens.  TALENT DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/ 2025 TALENT DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM: https://www.abchamber.ca/event/2025-talent-development-symposium/ 1:29:30 | Jespo and Johnny debrief after a jam-packed show, and check in with the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.  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.

It's federal Budget Day - will PM Mark Carney secure enough support outside his Liberal caucus to maintain confidence in his minority government? We open this episode with a look at what's at stake. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ 14:00 | Ontario Premier Doug Ford says you "could put (him) in a stretching rack...he'd never apologize to Donald Trump." This, after PM Carney apologized to President Donald Trump for Ontario's $70M World Series ad featuring Ronald Reagan on tariffs. Do you think Carney should have apologized? Leave a comment below!  32:30 | Alberta's UCP government has denied the Chief Electoral Officer's request for an additional $13M to prepare a referendum on Alberta's future in Canada, and manage recall petitions targeting UCP MLAs. Do you want to see a referendum?  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  45:20 | Real Talk has been cc'd on dozens of emails to UCP ministers and MLAs after teachers were ordered back to work. Ryan reads a few from Casey, Sean, Mikelle, and Karen. 52:50 | The Allin family is written into the history of the Royal Alexandra Hospital in a big way. We feature Drs. Edgar Norman, Eardley, and George Allin in this week's Echoes of the Alex presented by the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.  SUPPORT THE ALEX THROUGH ITS NEXT 125 YEARS: http://givetoroyalalex.org/ 57:00 | As New Yorkers elect a new mayor, we look at the dynamics at play between three main candidates, and talk bigger picture about cost of living in North America's major cities (including a cameo by DJ Alize in our Live Chat powered by Park Power).  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:19:10 | Have you been following the infill arson story in Edmonton? We get into what we know at this point.  1:26:20 | Are you a believer in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)? Check out this highlight of David Keith and James Fann from our most recent couple episodes.  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 possible Canadians could be headed BACK to the polls less than eight months after the most recent federal election. It all hinges on whether or not PM Mark Carney can garner enough support for his budget from Conservative, Bloc, or NDP MPs. So, what are the chances?  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 6:00 | Former senior advisor to the PMO Supriya Dwivedi gives us her best guess on how it'll all play out...after we collectively mourn the Blue Jays' World Series game seven loss. We cover Carney's apology to Trump for Doug Ford's TV tariffs ad featuring Ronald Reagan, and Erika Kirk's controversial (?) hug with US vice president J.D. Vance. Feature interviews on Real Talk are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 56:00 | Is Carbon capture and storage (CCS) all it's cracked up to be? We follow up our Oct. 31 Real Talk Round Table on energy, climate, and the economy with James Fann from the International CCS Knowledge Centre. CHECK OUT THE CENTRE: https://ccsknowledge.com/ WATCH OUR OCT. 31 ROUND TABLE: https://rtrj.info/103125RTRT 1:31:00 | It feels like all of Canada is feeling the Blue Jays' loss. In a special edition of Positive Reflections presented by Solar by Kuby, Jays' star Ernie Clement reminds us what sports is all about.  GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: 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.

Real Talkers are FIRED UP over teachers being ordered back to class. We've got hot takes from Tobias, Travis, Perry, KP, JP, Tavis, Rob, Brandon, Justin, Amy, Shawn, GreeceBall, and Robert in this episode of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, 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.

Is it possible to protect jobs and save the planet at the same time? Do Canadians have to choose between low emissions and affordable energy? Are we doing enough on energy and water security? How should we prepare communities for a future where extreme weather events are not the exception but the norm? 6:30 | Energy vs. Climate podcast co-hosts Ed Whittingham, Sara Hastings-Simon, and David Keith tackle these questions and more in our Real Talk Round Table presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY HANSEN DISTILLERY: https://hansendistillery.com/ MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ ENERGY vs. CLIMATE PODCAST: https://www.energyvsclimate.com/ 1:11:00 | Jespo jumps into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your comments on the economy vs. environment debate.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 1:15:00 | Real Talkers are FIRED UP over teachers being ordered back to class. We've got hot takes from Tobias, Travis, Perry, KP, JP, Tavis, Rob, Brandon, Justin, Amy, Shawn, GreeceBall, and Robert in this episode of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park.  FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com  When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, be sure to tell 'em Real Talk sent you!  FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, 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 official: we've received more emails and YouTube comments about Alberta's teachers' strike (and the way the UCP ended it) than any other subject in Real Talk's five year history. This is YOUR show, and you've got the floor throughout this episode, including emails from Real Talkers Rodger, Megan, LG, Principal D, Jill, Kyle, Shelley, and Colin.  THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY RAPIDEX FINANCIAL: https://rapidexfinancial.com/ 16:15 | Political strategist Sharan Kaur analyzes Alberta's use of the notwithstanding clause, and gives us the lay of the land in Ontario, where class sizes are capped and private schools receive no public funding. We take a look at the challenges facing PM Mark Carney ahead of the budget announcement (32:30), and Pierre Poilievre's best play in Opposition. Real Talk's feature interviews are presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West.  MBEW: https://www.mercedes-benz-edmontonwest.ca/ 47:15 | Jespo gets to more of your emails and Live Chat comments about education in Alberta.  1:06:30 | Congratulations to Dr. David Wishart, winner of the Gerhard Herzberg Gold Medal for Science and Engineering! We feature the U of A-educated, globally-renowned scientist in Alberta Wins presented by Play Alberta.  Get a $50 free bet with a $50 deposit with the promo code RYAN50 on the Play Alberta app or at https://playalberta.ca/. Must be 18+ to play. If you gamble, please use your GameSense.  1:10:00 | Is Halloween cancelled in light of Game Six of the World Series? Jespo and Johnny debate the best way to handle such a big schedule conflict, including advice from Real Talkers in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.  JOIN JESPO on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 at EVENING OF HOPE in support of HOPE INTERNATIONAL: https://www.hope-international.com/edmonton SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS:  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.

740,000 students and 51,000 teachers are back in Alberta classrooms after an emotional three weeks away. In this episode, we hear from politicians, parents, teachers, and a high school student on the true impact of the teachers' strike and the government's use of the notwithstanding clause to end it.  6:20 | Alberta's Minister of Education Demetrios Nicolaides talks about the decision to invoke the notwithstanding clause, and where the government's relationship stands with teachers moving forward. This feature interview, presented by Mercedes-Benz Edmonton West, includes email questions from Real Talkers Adam and Rob.  GET IN TOUCH WITH THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com  35:00 | We see where Real Talkers are at on the first day back to school. Real Talk's Live Chat is powered by Park Power.  SAVE on INTERNET, ELECTRICITY, and NATURAL GAS: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/ 39:00 | Remember Evan Li - the grade 12 student whose mic was cut during that Alberta Next town hall in Calgary? He tell us how his life changed since that moment, and how he's feeling on the first day after the strike.  49:30 | Real Talker Gillian gives us a frontline report from her junior high classroom. 51:00 | We LOVE the new Jasper Christmas Mug Trail! Such a fun way to support Jasper businesses through the holiday season. Ryan shares details - and highlights upcoming Halloween weekend activities - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.  "CREATURES RETURN" HALLOWEEN EVENTS: https://www.jasper.travel/creatures-return/ 55:30 | Nearly half a million Albertans signed the Forever Canadian petition, shattering the already-ambitious goal of 300,000. Organizer Thomas Lukaszuk tells us where the movement goes from here, including his opposition to a referendum.  1:20:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, and dig into the Live Chat.  1:40:30 | Real Talkers Mike, Gerry, and David share their thoughts on Alberta invoking the notwithstanding clause to end the teachers' strike.  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.