There's a lot to understand in Budget 2024, delivered April 16 by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Are you a renter hoping to buy your first home? An entrepreneur getting ready to sell the business you built? An average Canadian struggling to make your payments, including that cell phone bill? Whether you obsess over politics or pay no attention whatsoever, we all want to understand how the budget affects our own bottom line. We talk to three experts from three different angles in this post-Budget episode of Real Talk. 2:25 | The Pembina Institute's Scott MacDougall and The Fraser Institute's Jake Fuss dig into the details of Budget 2024. 38:00 | Spring is one of the most magnificent times to visit Jasper! We feature a new culinary and cultural celebration - Taste of Spring - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/taste-of-spring/ 40:10 | Does Budget 2024 go far enough for Canadians with disabilities? Don Slater from Disability Without Poverty gets real about the government's $6B Disability Benefit. MORE: https://www.disabilitywithoutpoverty.ca/ 1:03:33 | Smokers and vapers will pay more in 2024. Ryan and Johnny talk about the impact of that specific tax increase. 1:11:00 | Real Talker Garth says there will be electoral implications to this federal budget. Ryan reads his email to talk@ryanjespersen.com. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

You've seen the headlines: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says all federal funding to universities, school boards, health and housing authorities, and other entities needs to flow through her office...or she'll take PM Justin Trudeau's government to court. Bill 18 - dubbed the "Stay Out of My Backyard" Bill by Premier Smith - seeks to ensure projects have Alberta's blessing before proceeding. The implications of the legislation are far-reaching, to say the least. In this episode, we find out how it could impact Alberta's post-secondaries, including research, reputation, and beyond. 3:18 | International Relations professor and researcher Dr. W. Andy Knight, PhD student Andrea Dekeseredy, and University of Alberta alum Andy Grabia dig into one of the top political stories in the country on a special edition of the Real Talk Round Table. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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 Premier Danielle Smith says federal funding for things like housing, harm reduction, and research needs to flow through the province. Her government's introducing legislation that will force municipalities, housing and health authorities, and other entities to secure provincial approval before striking deals with Ottawa. Smith says the feds are operating outside their lane. Municipalities, for one, say dealing with Ottawa is the only way they're able to get anything done. 3:40 | Charles Adler gives us his take on Bill 18 - the Provincial Priorities Act, before explaining why he thinks the UCP is dominating the NDP on fundraising (16:55). As jury selection begins in Donald Trump's criminal trial, we look at New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu's curious defence of his Trump endorsement (22:35). Is there room for another federal political party in Canada? Adler responds to our April 12 Real Talk Round Table with founders of the Canadian Future Party (31:30). We take a look at Iran's aerial attack on Israel (40:50), and what it means for the international community. Real Talker Marcello has a question about Adler's political leanings (44:20), and Chuck ties it to Bill Maher's monologue about The Left driving a bus off a cliff (47:00). 55:00 | Real Talker Ron tells us why he thinks Danielle Smith's Bill 18 is the wrong move for Alberta. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 58:15 | We love Real Talker Lucinda's submission for Positive Reflections - some of the best Google Maps images we've ever seen! Positive Reflections is presented weekly by Kuby Renewable Energy. CHECK OUT THE POST: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5bve6GoGun/?img_index=1 GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Mike has a message for the "F Trudeau" crowd, Michael and Bob the Builder think Danielle Smith's out of line with the Provincial Priorities Act, dog lover Fiona says we need to crack down on dangerous canines, and Adam demands the right to purchase 4L milk jugs full of vodka for $49.95. It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD!

Are you a conservative turned off by the current tone of the Conservative Party of Canada? Are you a liberal who just can't support the Justin Trudeau-led government anymore? Or maybe you're somebody who hasn't voted in past, but you would if there was a party that felt like a fit? We look at the Canadian Future Party - a new "centrist" party - in this edition of the Real Talk Round Table. 2:40 | Interim leader Dominic Cardy, co-founder Rick Peterson, and party member Dicky Dikamba tell us why they started the party, how it differs from existing legacy parties, and how they intend to grow the grassroots. CHECK IT OUT: https://www.ourcanadianfuture.ca/ 1:02:20 | Mike has a message for the "F Trudeau" crowd, Michael and Bob the Builder think Danielle Smith's out of line with the Provincial Priorities Act, dog lover Fiona says we need to crack down on dangerous canines, and Adam demands the right to purchase 4L milk jugs full of vodka for $49.95. It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

How bad is foreign election interference in Canada? What are we learning from the inquiry underway in Ottawa? Do polls even matter 18 months out from an election? What does Anthony Housefather's decision to stay a Liberal MP say about the future of that party, if anything? And, is it possible Naheed Nenshi isn't the saviour many are saying he'll be for the Alberta NDP? 5:15 | Political writer Evan Scrimshaw looks at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's testimony at the foreign interference inquiry, the latest federal polls (17:40), Housefather's decision to remain a Liberal following the Palestine statehood vote (26:00), Rachel Gilmore calling out Pierre Poilievre's communications team (34:45), and why Evan thinks Naheed Nenshi's Alberta NDP leadership campaign is "a sinking ship" (45:30). READ EVAN'S WORK: https://scrimshawunscripted.substack.com/ 1:01:35 | Real Talker Wendy responds to Jen Gerson's April 9 appearance on the show, and tells us why she sold her car...for good. NO MINIVAN? NO PROBLEM: https://youtu.be/4osV6Xy9Bys?si=5b94VXRPCPekxTdt 1:10:20 | Real Talker Jim from Vernon has a theory about why cancer rates are up around the world. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:14:20 | Real Talker AJ shares his powerful personal story about organ donation. EVENING OF HOPE - APRIL 20: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/evening-of-hope-tickets-797818335117?aff=efbevent FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

"I'll literally find that grease ball and hook a chain around his ankle and drag him behind my pickup truck," reads a post from Liam Brennan on an Osoyoos community social media page, referencing the BC town's CAO Rod Risling in the context of a property tax increase. The threat - far from the only one - forced Mayor Sue McKortoff to take action. You'll find out how she and her colleagues are bringing the whole province on board to address harassment and threats aimed at public officials. Stick around as we look at Alberta's latest threat to sue the feds (59:15), and what it means for you. 8:40 | Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff tells us about the specific death threat forced her hand, as the town lobbies other municipalities and the province to toughen up laws around harassment and abuse. 44:25 | Join Ryan on Saturday, April 20 in Fort Saskatchewan at An Evening of HOPE! Funds raised at this gala fundraiser will benefit organ donor families, thanks to the great work by the Andy Polanski Charitable Foundation. TICKETS/INFORMATION: https://www.apcf.ca/ 47:40 | Prompted by talk about organ donation, Ryan reads a powerful story submitted by Real Talker Lesley in NWT. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 56:35 | The only gay ski week in the Canadian Rockies kicks off April 12 in Jasper! We find out how some Jasper businesses are among the first in Canada to become Rainbow Registered in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. JASPER PRIDE: https://jasperpride.ca/ 59:15 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she'll take Ottawa to court if the feds continue to strike big deals directly with municipalities. Ryan explains who could win here, why it's happening when it is, and ultimately who will be stuck with the tab. 1:09:50 | Real Talker Colin has no time for Charles Adler's take on the two Cane Corsos that killed the boy in Edmonton on April 1. JEREMY ALLEN "GRIEF" INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/091222Allen 1:15:25 | Real Talker Jared follows up on a dog-related email he sent us in December 2023 with "a story of redemption and ruination." FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Justin Trudeau's said it a million times: eight out of ten Canadians receive more from the Canada Carbon Rebate than what they pay in carbon taxes. If that's true, why aren't more Canadians on board with the Liberal government's approach to climate action? Is it possible the rebate itself is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax? Political columnist Jen Gerson makes that argument in this super-sized episode of Real Talk. 5:00 | But first...should parents be charged when their children commit heinous crimes? Ryan and Johnny take a look at sentencing hearings for James and Jennifer Crumbley, whose son Ethan killed four schoolmates in Oxford, Michigan in November 2021. 9:50 | Real Talkers have a LOT to say about the tragic death of 11-year-old Kache Grist, who was killed by two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate. Ryan reads emails to talk@ryanjespersen.com. GO FUND ME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-costs-for-kache 29:20 | Jen Gerson tells us what prompted her to co-found The Line, one of Canada's most-read sources of online conservative commentary. She explains why she thinks the carbon tax rebate is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax (44:25), and gives us her take on Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's biggest mistake (1:25:20). READ THE LINE: https://www.readtheline.ca/p/jen-gerson-the-problem-with-the-carbon FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

An 11-year-old boy is dead after two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate attacked him during a Spring Break visit. The dogs, subjects of two other police complaints in 2024 alone, were seized and euthanized. How should society handle tragedies like this? Ultimately, whose fault is it? And what does "justice" look like? 3:45 | Charles Adler talks it out with Ryan and Johnny (all three of them dog owners), along with Real Talkers in our YouTube live chat. Later, we get into Donald Trump's communication technique (45:24) and Pierre Poilievre's unsolicited endorsement from Alex Jones (59:17). RYAN'S POLL RE: DOG ATTACKS: https://x.com/ryanjespersen/status/1777344036413841662 1:14:52 | This week's Positive Reflection presented by Kuby Energy comes courtesy Real Talker Cara. Who doesn't love a good water rescue? Thanks Cara! SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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 Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com

Within the next couple of years, people will be moving into new homes in the 100% Hydrogen-fuelled community of Bremner, just east of Edmonton. It'll be the first neighbourhood of its kind in North America. Planners are bullish, expecting close to 90,000 residents when it's all built out. Bigger picture, what does the future of home hydrogen look like? How is it different than natural gas? Is it actually a step toward sustainability? How do we know it's safe? Will hydrogen take jobs away from oil and gas workers? What about water impacts? Why not go with wind and solar? 2:35 | ATCO's Greg Caldwell, Qualico's Brad Armstrong, and Gradient Thermal's Cameron Doepker discuss plans (and justification) for Bremner, and the future of hydrogen in Alberta and across the country. ATCO: https://www.atco.com/en-ca.html QUALICO: https://qualicocommunitiesedmonton.com/ GRADIENT THERMAL: https://www.gradientthermal.com/ 1:05:38 | Real Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

How do the Feds plan to invest their way out of a housing crisis? What proof do we have the $10/day childcare program is paying off? What does the future of pharmacare look like in provinces saying "No thanks" to the proposed plan? And how can Canadians trust the government's procurement process after that $60M ArriveCAN app debacle? We check in with Hon. Anita Anand (34:10) in this episode of Real Talk. 7:30 | But first...Ryan and Johnny talk get Real about their track record with dentist and doctor visits, Real Talker Sean says boo birds at the Flames game don't speak for all Calgarians (14:38), Real Talker Caroline has insights on politicians who swap values for power (20:23), and Real Talker Jake shares his informed take on Temporary Foreign Workers (28:23). EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 34:10 | Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, joins us a few minutes ahead of a big pre-budget announcement in Calgary. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 59:40 | Real Talker Lisa is married to an Alberta Sheriff. She tells us how they're feeling about a proposed Alberta Police Force. Real Talker Sunil fact checks Max Fawcett's March 28 comments about inflation (1:06:10). We revisit our fascinating conversation with Trina Moyles about the 2024 wildfire season (1:15:00), and hear from Real Talker Heather (1:21:38), who says she's just trying to keep her head above water re: politics and everything else! REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Experts are predicting one of the worst wildfire seasons in Canadian history in 2024. We find out why (and what we can do about it) in this episode. But first, it's another scoop for Real Talk as NDP MLA David Shepherd tells us why he's endorsing "outsider" Naheed Nenshi as the next leader of the Alberta NDP, and sheds light on the personal health challenges that halted Shepherd's own plans to seek the NDP's top job. 2:35 | The MLA for Edmonton-Centre makes his announcement in the Real Talk studio. 41:20 | The responses to Ryan's tweet about Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek getting booed at a recent Flames game are...somethin' else. Jespo and Johnny take a quick look at some of the comments. 52:50 | The Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon goes Saturday, April 27! We take a look at the myriad of options (5k, 10k, half marathon, and family fun run) and perks connected to this breathtaking annual tradition in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. REGISTER: https://jaspercanadianrockieshalf.ca/ 55:00 | Trina Moyles spent seven years working as a fire tower lookout in northwestern Alberta. She's the author of "Looking: Love, Solitude, and Searching for Wildfire in the Boreal Firest," and the cover feature "Alberta is Burning" in the April issue of Alberta Views. Trina takes us into the world of wildfires, and explains why this year could prove to be the worst on record. KNOCK 50% OFF A SUBSCRIPTION TO ALBERTA VIEWS WITH THE PROMO CODE "AVRJ" -- https://albertaviews.ca/ DR. MIKE FLANNAGAN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/bsYbKigZWXc?si=9v7F2h2eQllL3p7L&t=400 KYLE BRITTAIN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/B4MdnTYb4ik?si=mOT7cbzdFOEaeZLb&t=160 EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

A rough reception for Mayor Jyoti Gondek, booed during an appearance at centre ice during the Calgary Flames South Asian Celebration game. It's the latest challenge for Gondek, whose popularity has taken a significant hit in recent months, as evidenced by the recall petition we discussed during our March 25, 2024 episode. 5:30 | What does the heckling say about Calgarians, or even Canadians...if anything? Charles Adler gives us his take on this story, along with an update on the Danielle Smith/Steven Guilbeault spat, and an infamous five year anniversary of an interview that changed the course of Ryan and Chuck's careers. 46:40 | Is Ottawa ignoring a big opportunity for Canadian LNG exports? Alberta Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Shauna Feth lays out the business implications of a recent visit by the Greek PM, changes to the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap, the carbon tax increase, the Temporary Foreign Worker program, Pharmacare, and more. UPCOMING JOB FAIRS: https://www.abchamber.ca/alberta-hiring-opportunities/ TALENT DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/ ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY: https://rtrj.info/040224ACCABPerspectives 1:24:25 | Shout out to Donna Jean Wilde! The 58 year old Magrath, AB resident broke the Guinness World Record for longest time in an abdominal plank (female), holding the gut-busting fitness pose for just over four and a half hours! How could we not feature her incredible accomplishment in this week's Positive Reflections presented by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy?! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property. 1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. 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, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com 1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property. 1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. 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, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

Were you shocked to see Rakhi Pancholi pull out of the Alberta NDP leadership race with three months to go? (We were!) Many people saw the popular Edmonton MLA as a legitimate successor to Rachel Notley, and a formidable candidate to be the next Premier of Alberta. So, what's up? 3:49 | Rakhi tells us when and why she decided to leave the leadership race and endorse Naheed Nenshi. 21:54 | First responders out of Edmonton have been equipping Ukrainian firefighters in proper PPE, and training them in tactical combat casualty care. Firefighter Aid Ukraine's Kevin Royle checks in live from Ukraine, and Nikki Booth joins from Edmonton, for an update on the group's work in one of the world's hardest-hit war zones. SUPPORT FIREFIGHTER AID UKRAINE: https://www.firefighteraidukraine.com/ 35:45 | We love when you share your #MyJasper Memories with us! That's what the Whidden family did, telling us all about their trip to Jasper National Park. (We love their family tradition "Animal Bingo"!) Plus, the Jasper Pride & Ski Festival is just weeks away - we cover it all, courtesy of our friends at Tourism Jasper. FESTIVAL DETAILS: https://jasperpride.ca/ 38:48 | APTN journalist Danielle Paradis tells us about her assignment covering the impacts of climate change in Canada's high arctic, resulting in the six-part podcast series The Place That Thaws. CHECK OUT THE PLACE THAT THAWS: https://www.aptnnews.ca/ourstories/theplacethatthaws/ EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors

Gil's in, and Rakhi's out. On an eventful day in the Alberta NDP leadership race, we find out why the president of the Alberta Federation of Labour figures he's the best best to return the NDP to power. 2:00 | But first...Rakhi Pancholi's out of the NDP leadership race, withdrawing and endorsing Naheed Nenshi just moments before we record this episode. Ryan offers some initial thoughts (more at 1:01:50). 3:40 | Gil McGowan tells us why he might be the next Peter Lougheed (!), and why he thinks the NDP lost the most recent provincial election. Speaking with Ryan an hour before officially launching his campaign, Gil gives us a few scoops on his plans for Alberta's energy industry, electricity grid, insurance, and more. CHECK OUT GIL'S CAMPAIGN: https://gilforalberta.ca/ 1:01:50 | Ryan and Johnny discuss Rakhi Pancholi's departure from the NDP leadership race, and get into the YouTube Live comments. 1:22:45 | We're all horrified by the Baltimore bridge collapse. Ryan and Johnny take a look at the video footage and some of the early reports. EMAIL THE SHOW: talk@ryanjespersen.com FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

Landon Johnston thinks Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's doing such a lousy job, he organizes a petition to recall her from office. Instead of ignoring the petition, which is unlikely to succeed, Gondek invites Johnston to sit down one-on-one at City Hall and discuss his concerns. What was said during their brief meeting, and where do both parties go from here? 2:55 | Mayor Gondek tells us what she and Johnston discussed, how she's responding, and how the recall petition has impacted her personally and politically. 36:00 | Charles Adler tells us about receiving the key to the City of Toronto, then tells us what he thinks about Mayor Gondek meeting with the guy who wants her run out of office. Chuck and Ryan discuss Donald Trump's half-a-billion-dollar legal woes, and horrific famine conditions in Gaza. 1:29:55 | We LOVE follow-up stories with happy endings! This week's Positive Reflection is submitted by Lew, who joined us on the show just over a year ago to talk about his journey with homelessness and addiction. We guarantee you'll be moved by his update. WATCH LEW'S DEC. 21, 2022 INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/122122Lew SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.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.

This edition of The Flamethrower is a healthy mix of love letters and hate mail based on our recent Justin Trudeau and Danielle Smith interviews. Enjoy, courtesy of our friends at The Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: talk@ryanjespersen.com