
Real Talk Ryan Jespersen
News & Politics Podcasts
Real Talk about news, politics, and pop culture. Hosted by Ryan Jespersen from Edmonton, Alberta. Live weekday mornings at 8:30am MT. #RealTalkRJ
Location:
Canada
Genres:
News & Politics Podcasts
Description:
Real Talk about news, politics, and pop culture. Hosted by Ryan Jespersen from Edmonton, Alberta. Live weekday mornings at 8:30am MT. #RealTalkRJ
Twitter:
@ryanjespersen
Language:
English
Contact:
780-340-7697
Website:
https://ryanjespersen.com/
Episodes
Alleged AHS Interference Puts Smith in the Hot Seat
2/10/2025
Premier Danielle Smith says reports tying her to alleged wrongdoing related to Alberta Health Services' procurement and contracting are "false, baseless and defamatory". Meantime, Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi is calling for an RCMP investigation into allegations Smith’s government dismissed the head of AHS two days before she was scheduled to meet with the province’s Auditor-General to discuss her investigation into procurement contracts and deals for private surgical facilities. We get into what's at stake in this episode of Real Talk.
3:30 | Journalist Carrie Tate takes us into her exclusive story in The Globe and Mail.
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
28:00 | Real Talkers have their say in our Live Chat powered by Park Power.
52:00 | What a bizarre Super Bowl. Jespo and Johnny recap the game, Kendrick Lamar's halftime show, and the party at On the Rocks.
1:00:00 | Whatever happened to pausing tariffs for a month? U.S. President Donald Trump says he's hitting steel and aluminum right now.
1:10:30 | Speaking of Trump, more Canadians want Mark Carney negotiating with POTUS, not Pierre Poilievre. So says a new Nanos Research poll. Do you buy it?
1:15:30 | Ryan reads more of your thoughts on the AHS story, including an insider insight into demand for surgical facilities in Alberta.
1:25:00 | A Jasper business will be back in the water (in a good way!) this spring thanks to an amazing group of people who got together over the weekend to Raise the Raft. Positive Reflections is presented weekly on Real Talk by our friends at Kuby Energy.
GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:00:38:08
"Who the Hell Picks A Fight with CANADA?!"
2/8/2025
Sheryl schools us on dead chickens and dancing monkeys, Jenny wants you to join the resistance, Alanna's spitting fire over the newest Alberta Health scandal, Steve's sick of being robbed, Stephanie's had enough of the "treacherous tangerine," and Cody wants everybody to rethink a specific, recurring chore.
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!
Duration:00:09:10
What's Going On with Jasper's Rebuild?
2/7/2025
More than 600 families remain displaced after wildfire ripped through Jasper in July of 2024. As clean-up continues and rebuilds begin, officials are at odds over the "right way" to rebuild one of Canada's most magnificent tourism destinations. With hundreds of millions of dollars hanging in the balance, we check in with federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to figure out what they agree on, and what they don't.
2:45 | Minister Terry Duguid, federal lead on Jasper recovery efforts, tells us about his trip to the mountain town and conditions around $160M in new funding.
23:10 | We ask Hon. Ric McIver, Alberta's Minister of Municipal Affairs, why the province is withholding the $112M it promised for housing.
46:10 | Mayor Richard Ireland talks housing crunch, tax shortfalls, and the future vision for Jasper.
1:16:45 | The next generation isn't drinking like generations before did. Why is that?
1:31:30 | Sheryl schools us on dead chickens and dancing monkeys, Jenny wants you to join the resistance, Alanna's spitting fire over the newest Alberta Health scandal, Steve's sick of being robbed, Stephanie's had enough of the "treacherous tangerine," and Cody wants everybody to rethink a specific, recurring chore. 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!
HANG OUT WITH JESPO AT OTR ON SUPER BOWL SUNDAY: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:42:13
Businesses Pivot to Survive Trump Chaos
2/6/2025
Countless Canadian businesses are taking a closer look at their supply chains, export markets, profit margins, and more in light of a potential trade war with the United States.
We talk to entrepreneurs Lane Edwards (Pura Botanicals), Justine Barber (Poppy Barley), and Curtis Hrdlica (Honomobo) about Trump's tariff chaos, "Buy Canadian" messaging, and how they're America-proofing their businesses.
PURA BOTANICALS: https://www.purabotanicals.ca/
POPPY BARLEY: https://poppybarley.com/
HONOMOBO: https://www.honomobo.com/ca/home
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
HANG OUT WITH JESPO AT OTR ON SUPER BOWL SUNDAY: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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
Duration:01:15:06
TRUMP'S SECRET WEAPON: Unelected Elon Musk
2/5/2025
Elon Musk isn’t just shaping the future of technology—he’s wielding unprecedented influence over American policy with an official role in Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency. With deep economic stakes in transportation, social media, satellite technology, and space exploration, his personal interests are increasingly intertwined with national policy, raising serious ethical red flags. Critics warn that his unchecked access to private data, his ability to control information sharing through X (formerly Twitter), and his lack of accountability pose a grave risk to democracy itself. We get into it with cybersecurity expert Nejolla Korris.
5:20 | But first...President Donald Trump sent shock waves around the world with his candid comments about the U.S. "owning" Gaza and displacing 1.8 million Palestinians along the way.
16:20 | The world's richest man has a huge influence on America's domestic and foreign policy as an unelected official. We talk to cybersecurity expert Nejolla Korris about Elon Musk's relationship with Donald Trump, America's move toward a tech oligarchy, and the rise of bots on social media sites.
NEJOLLA'S WORK: https://www.interveritas.com/
1:03:30 | Got plans for Family Day weekend? Why not head out to Jasper! Ryan gives a sneak peek of his family's video collaboration with Tourism Jasper, and has details on an Edmonton fundraiser for Jasper Raft Tours.
FAMILY DAY in JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/blog/5-ways-celebrate-family-day-jasper-national-park/
RAISE THE RAFT: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1207727644688155&set=pcb.1207727728021480
1:11:11 | When should government fund or defund media? Jespo pulls back the curtain on Real Talk's position, including whether or not we receive a federal media subsidy.
1:32:20 | Do you engage when a friend or family member shares misinformation on social media? Ryan shares details of a current conundrum.
1:39:45 | Did you catch the awkward exchange between journalist Lauren Boothby and Edmonton Police Chief Dale McFee?
1:46:45 | Tough look for Edmonton, as Donald Trump's National Economic Council director Kevin Hassett takes a big swipe at Alberta's capital city on an international news broadcast.
GUY FELICELLA on REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/051723GuyF
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
HANG OUT WITH JESPO AT OTR ON SUPER BOWL SUNDAY: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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
Duration:01:53:31
Protect Your Investments Against Trump's Chaos
2/4/2025
With U.S. President Donald Trump delaying tariffs on Canada, how should Canadian businesses and investors approach the next month (and beyond)?
8:45 | Edmonton Chamber of Commerce CEO Doug Griffiths says this entire ordeal should be a wake-up call for every business.
CHECK OUT THE CHAMBER: https://www.edmontonchamber.com/
41:15 | What are the markets telling us right now? What's in store for the Canadian dollar? North Road Investment Counsel president Marshall McAlister presents it all in plain language.
NORTH ROAD INVESTMENT COUNSEL: https://www.northroadic.com/
1:00:00 | Twin sisters Cortney Drover and Connie Claeys fought and survived the exact same rare cancer. They've got a challenge for all of us on World Cancer Day.
LEARN MORE: https://breastcancerprogress.ca/know_more_stories/twin-sisters-and-both-carriers-of-the-brca2-gene/
TELL US YOUR STORY: talk@ryanjespersen.com
HANG OUT WITH JESPO AT OTR ON SUPER BOWL SUNDAY: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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
Duration:01:33:41
This Means (Trade) War
2/3/2025
Stormy seas ahead, as Canada and the U.S. prepare to lock horns. We get three different takes (plus dozens in the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power) on the implications of President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, and the Canadian counter-offensive announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Don't miss Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy near the end of the episode, as we recap the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic, where an incredible crew of players, sponsors, and volunteers came together in wild winter weather to raise $30,000 for charity!
4:50 | Is Canada the next Ukraine? Political commentator Tasha Kheiriddin gets into it.
TASHA'S SUBSTACK: https://tashakheiriddin.substack.com/p/is-canada-the-next-ukraine
33:00 | Former Harper cabinet minister and longtime diplomat Chris Alexander gives us his take on Trudeau's response to Trump's tariffs, and Canada's evolving role in Ukraine.
FOLLOW CHRIS ON X: https://x.com/calxandr
1:00:30 | Athabasca University political scientist Dr. Mark Crawford wonders what a one-month pause on tariffs in Mexico might mean for Canada.
CHECK OUT ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY: https://www.athabascau.ca/
1:35:00 | WHAT A WEEKEND. $30,000 raised for charity in -25C temperatures at the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic presented by Molson Canadian! Ryan and Johnny recap a wonderful day in St. Albert.
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:39:12
"Fight for Canada and Canadian Jobs!"
2/1/2025
Scott has words for former PM Jean Chretien, Greg's not buying the UCP's COVID task force report, Karen's head's about to explode over coal, Wayne's getting ready to burn tires and poach grizzly bears, Pilot One has a reminder for Westerners, and Ronnie's ready to chase neo-Nazis out of town. 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: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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
Duration:00:07:09
Trump Imposes Tariffs, Blames DEI for Deadly Crash
1/31/2025
It's Tariffs Eve. Will Donald Trump actually make good on his threats? If so, who will ultimately pay the most? We present an international edition of the Real Talk Round Table featuring guests on both sides of the border. Plus, what was with Trump's bizarre political attacks after that deadly D.C. plane crash? HR consultant Dante King (39:30) explains why 47 is way off base.
8:00 | Sabine El-Chidiac (in Ottawa) and Elizabeth Hicks (in Detroit) lay out the true costs of tariffs on both sides of the border.
READ THEIR OP/ED: https://consumerchoicecenter.org/tomorrows-tariffs-will-hurt-everyone/
39:30 | As recovery efforts were still underway, U.S. President Donald Trump was linking a deadly aviation disaster on DEI initiatives. HR consultant Dante King responds...with receipts.
CHECK OUT DANTE'S BOOK: https://www.danteking.com/diagnosingwhiteness
54:00 | Johnny and Jespo draw the winners of the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic Early Bird Prize: tickets for six to the Oilers/Leafs game with limo bus transport.
Join us at the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, February 1 at Larry Olexiuk Field in St. Albert from 9am-3:30pm! Spectators are more than welcome at this family-friendly event.
59:15 | Scott has words for former PM Jean Chretien, Greg's not buying the UCP's COVID task force report, Karen's head's about to explode over coal, Wayne's getting ready to burn tires and poach grizzly bears, Pilot One has a reminder for Westerners, and Ronnie's ready to chase neo-Nazis out of town. 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: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:17:41
Doctors Silenced in COVID Report
1/30/2025
A $2M report commissioned by the Alberta government advocates for limiting COVID-19 vaccinations, and suggests that health professionals should not face repercussions for promoting alternative treatments. Critics, including the Alberta and Canadian Medical Associations are calling the 269-page report "anti-science," suggesting it attempts to "rewrite history" by downplaying the importance of vaccines.
2:45 | Dr. Shelley Duggan, president of the Alberta Medical Association, explains why the COVID report is flawed.
AMA: https://www.albertadoctors.org/
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
1:04:00 | We're so proud to partner with YouCan Youth Services. Meet Ethan, a young man transforming his life with supports from YouCan.
DONATE TO YOUCAN: https://youcan.ca/
1:10:00 | A horrific crash near Washington, D.C. involving a passenger jet and military helicopter claimed every life on board. What can you say in a situation like this?
1:17:30 | Join Jespo at On the Rocks Super Bowl Sunday!
TICKETS: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:16:24
Bombshell Report Exposes Foreign Meddling
1/29/2025
Foreign interference IS a thing in Canada, and Ottawa's dragged its heels doing anything about it. That's the general finding of Justice Marie-Josee Hogue's inquiry, which wasn't all bad. Turns out there aren't "traitors" in Parliament, but we're not out of the woods. We get into common sense conclusions with Mo Amir.
8:30 | But first...how about our new live stream pre-roll? This episode marks the debut of a new feature available exclusively to our live-tuning audience. (We've kept it on this YouTube episode so everybody can see it for the first time, but moving forward you'll only see it on the Real Talk Live Stream presented by California Closets.)
15:30 | Are you rattled, relieved, or "other" over the foreign interference final report? We welcome Mo Amir, host of This is VANCOLOUR, to tackle that story, Trump's tariffs, Pierre Poilievre's Hamas blast aimed at Anthony Housefather, and the awkward interaction between MPs Melissa Lantsman and Nathanial Erskine-Smith.
CHECK OUT MO'S SHOW: https://chekplus.ca/m/xPrh1pKc/this-is-vancolour?r=r1jM6cSC
1:20:30 | This new ice climbing wall in Jasper is UNREAL! We feature the new installation by Rockaboo Mountain Adventures in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper.
PLAN YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/
1:23:15 | Pierre Poilievre says Energy East might not be dead, and it might be time to get serious about lithium mining. Meantime, ICE agents are rounding up illegal migrants in the US. What does that mean for the US-Canada border? Jespo and Johnny open up the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:46:50
What's Your Move if Hatemongers Hit Your Community?
1/28/2025
Did you see those clowns flashing Nazi salutes in St. Albert over the weekend? What's the right way to respond when that happens in your community? Mayor Cathy Heron tells us where her head's at after the "Deport Them All" demonstrators were ushered away by RCMP.
But first...federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson (2:40) tells us what he thinks about Premier Danielle Smith's trips to the States, why he's endorsing Mark Carney for Canada's next P.M., and whether or not the feds would intervene to stop coal mining in Alberta's Eastern Slopes.
30:10 | Real Talker Kimberly and Mayor Cathy Heron respond to recent anti-immigration demonstrations in St. Albert.
48:00 | Did you catch Pierre Poilievre's plan to combat Trump's tariffs, and his thoughts on Mark Carney's plan to ditch the carbon tax? We take a look at his interview with CTV's Todd Battis.
1:13:30 | Peavey Mart is closing all it's locations?! Turns out Real Talkers are pretty big fans of the place. What other Canadian institutions do you miss? Leave a comment below!
1:18:10 | Real Talker Kathy says Alberta's at a breaking point. Ryan reads her email about our January 27 interview with High River Mayor Craig Snodgrass about coal.
WATCH THE SNODGRASS INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/012725Coal
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/solar
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:34:20
What on Earth is the Alberta Government Up To?
1/27/2025
Why on earth is Danielle Smith's government opening up the Eastern Slopes to coal mining again, when the majority of Albertans oppose it and the government makes next to nothing from it? In this episode, straight-shooting High River Mayor Craig Snodgrass (6:15) tells us why he opposes coal mining in the Rockies, and tells us about his ongoing conversations with Premier Danielle Smith and Energy Minister Brian Jean.
1:16:30 | Real Talkers have their say on the coal story, including an email from Kyle, a former coal miner.
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
1:37:20 | Our bucket is full after this email from Real Talker Lyndsi - a perfect fit for Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy.
SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com
GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kuby.ca/solar
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:41:55
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1/25/2025
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Duration:00:05:50
Danielle in D.C. / Lame Duck Liberals / Mountain Mining / Two Genders?
1/24/2025
We've got today's top political stories teed up for Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes, including Doug Ford's early election call, a lacklustre Liberal leadership race, Pierre Poilievre's "two genders" interview, and Danielle Smith's visit to D.C.
1:30 | But first...everybody's talking about what a great job our buddy Marty Jones did with Gene Principe during the January 23 Oilers broadcast! Jespo and Johnny recap our interview with the 99-year-old D-Day veteran in November.
MARTY JONES on REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/111124MartyJones
JUNO BEACH CENTRE: https://www.junobeach.org/
9:45 | Erika and Cheryl get into Trump's tariff threats, Canada's military spending, and Danielle Smith's D.C. appearances. Is "lame duck" fair to describe the federal government (24:00), and is Mark Carney the next P.M.? Is Doug Ford right to call an early election (33:45)?
41:45 | If 80% of Albertans oppose coal mining in the Eastern Slopes, how can the UCP possibly defend it?
58:45 | What did you think of that Pierre Poilievre "two genders" moment during a CP24 interview?
1:11:45 | We're a week away from the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic! Ryan and Johnny share a few details about the big day. Spectators are welcome between 9:30am-3:30pm Saturday, February 1 at Larry Olexiuk Field in St. Albert!
1:16:00 | Ryan throws Johnny under the bus for a cold-hearted comment.
1:19:00 | Tonie hated our interview with Western Standard founder Derek Fildebrandt, Anna Banana peels paint over Danielle Smith's trip to D.C., and KP's got "liberals, dippers, easterners, greenies, Jespo and Johnny" in his sights over "fake love for Canada". 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: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:26:45
Alberta Re-Opens the Rockies to Coal Mining
1/23/2025
Ranchers, land owners, conservationists, and everyday Albertans are joining forces to protest the Alberta government re-opening the Eastern Slopes to coal mining. With more than 80% of Albertans opposed to these projects, how can the UCP justify lifting its ban on coal exploration?
5:00 | We talk to the Alberta Wilderness Association's Kennedy Halvorson about the history and ecological impacts of coal mining in Alberta, and the lobby against new mining in the Eastern Slopes.
AWA: https://albertawilderness.ca/
33:00 | Dr. Sarah Elmeligi, MLA for Banff-Kananaskis and Opposition Critic for Environment, Parks and Climate, talks about the politics around Alberta lifting its coal mining moratorium.
Real Talk's January 2021 interview with Robin Campbell: https://rtrj.info/011421Coal
1:10:00 | Real Talker Mario, a P.Eng. working for an oil company, explains why doubling Alberta's oil production is a "pipe dream".
1:04:20 | Real Talker Nancy explains how our January 22 episode led to a "significant moment in (her) life". Amazing.
SEND US AN EMAIL: talk@ryanjespersen.com
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @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.
Duration:01:20:39
Heads Up, Canada: America's Coming for the Arctic
1/22/2025
Canada will look a whole lot different 50 years from now. Our claim to Arctic sovereignty is threatened, existing trade relationships will be forced to evolve, and our population is forecasted to explode (like it or not).
4:00 | Before we get into the future of Canada, Ryan opens this episode with a prayer...sort of. Did you hear Right Rev. Marianne Budde's message to Donald Trump at the inaugural prayer service?
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjspersen.com
7:00 | Dr. Thomas P.M. Barnett has advised the U.S. Department of Defence for decades. He talks to us about Trump's ambitions involving Canada, climate change opening up the Arctic, and demographic shifts fuelling public opinion.
READ THOMAS IN POLITICO: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2025/01/16/logic-trump-global-ambitions-canada-europe-greenland-00198656
38:00 | "What's with all the talk about white people?!" Jespo and Johnny dive into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power for your takes on what Thomas had to say.
55:45 | The town of Jasper is hosting a street party you won't want to miss for the final weekend of Jasper in January! We feature some of the upcoming highlights in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper.
CHECK OUT JASPER in JANUARY: https://www.jasper.travel/january/
1:00:30 | The Alberta government quietly rescinded its coal mining moratorium as the world watched Donald Trump take the oath of office. We take a look at what it all means, and early pushback from environmental groups.
1:29:45 | Real Talkers Jenny and Caroline respond to our interview on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Garth La Beach a couple episodes ago.
WATCH GARTH'S FULL INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/011625Garth
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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.
Duration:01:45:13
What Does Trump's Promised "Golden Age" Mean for Canada?
1/21/2025
President Donald Trump is guaranteeing a "Golden Age" for the United States of America. Does that promised prosperity come at the expense of allies and neighbours like Canada?
2:55 | We run through Trump's inauguration speech with Dr. Bob Murray, political scientist and senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: talk@ryanjespersen.com
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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.
Duration:01:21:45
Trump's Inauguration Day: Key Storylines
1/20/2025
No need to speculate any more. Canadians will soon know exactly what Donald Trump's return to the White House will mean for trade with the United States, border security, and more. We take a look at early storylines in this episode of Real Talk.
3:30 | Wyatt Sharpe tells us what he's seeing behind-the-scenes in Washington, D.C.
THE WYATT SHARPE SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/@UCEI-thoRF6_EGuhc_1eMQYw
25:00 | Derek Fildebrandt responds to his Western Standard correspondent being hauled away from Mark Carney's campaign launch by police.
WESTERN STANDARD: https://www.westernstandard.news/
1:07:30 | What did you think of Chrystia Freeland's campaign launch?
1:22:00 | Real Talker Brytani shares a remarkable story out of Red Deer in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy.
SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: talk@ryanjespersen.com
GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kuby.ca/solar
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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.
Duration:01:27:43
"Political Commentators Want Albertans to be Cucks!"
1/18/2025
Real Talkers are ALL fired up from ALL different angles as Danielle Smith tells her fellow premiers to pound sand. 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!
REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://www.ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey
FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, X, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj & @ryanjespersen
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK & LINKEDIN: @ryanjespersen
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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.
Duration:00:06:51