The Strong and Free Podcast: Recent Episodes
Christopher Balkaran
Send us a text
I sit down with Dr. Dirk Huyer, Ontario’s Chief Coroner, to explore the evolving complexities behind Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada. As the chair of the province’s MAiD Death Review Committee (MDRC), Dr. Huyer offers a rare and in-depth perspective on what the data really shows, how legislation is being interpreted in practice, and whether concerns over coercion or systemic failure hold weight.
MAiD Death Review Committee Reports
https://arpacanada.ca/ontario-maid-death-review-committee-reports-2024/
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Dr. Salim Mansur, professor emeritus and political scientist, to explore the untold story behind Canada’s multiculturalism policy. Dr. Mansur pulls back the curtain on the political, philosophical, and constitutional roots of multiculturalism in Canada—revealing how a once well-intentioned idea may now be weakening liberal democracy and national cohesion. From the War Measures Act to the Emergencies Act, and from Pierre Trudeau’s grand vision to Justin Trudeau’s declaration that Canada has “no core identity,” this conversation unpacks the real consequences of prioritizing group identity over individual liberty.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I’m joined by Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of Domestic Policy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, to unpack the truths and myths around Canada’s border security. From fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling to legal blind spots and our fractured jurisdictional model, Peter offers a research-backed, nonpartisan perspective on the known unknowns we face. What can Canada learn from its allies? Why are our legal frameworks outdated? And is our public safety strategy more reactive than proactive? This conversation brings much-needed depth to an issue that often escapes the spotlight.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down once again with Professor Paul Robinson to continue our exploration of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. We dive into the uncomfortable questions rarely addressed in mainstream media: Have Western sanctions actually worked? Why does media silence dissent within Ukraine? And is Canada’s role sustainable—or even justified—in a war with no clear end?
From examining the economic reality of sanctions and shadow fleets to questioning the strategic silence on Ukraine’s democratic backsliding, this conversation pulls no punches. We also explore the uncomfortable truth about Western foreign policy’s double standards, and whether Ukraine is being used as a proxy in a much larger geopolitical chess match.
Professor Robinson and I also tackle the peace process—if it can even exist—and the uneasy truth that peace often means compromise no one wants to make. We dissect the differing diplomatic philosophies between the Biden and Trump camps, the shifting Overton window in Canada, and the quiet erosion of civil society’s voice in the name of “duty.”
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
After nine years of Justin Trudeau, Canadians finally got a change — but is it real change, or just better branding?
In this solo episode, I break down the aftermath of the April 28th federal election and what I think Mark Carney actually represents. From the tone of his first press conference to his early decisions — like refusing a coalition with the NDP and allowing Pierre Poilievre to run in a by-election — Carney seems to be signalling a major pivot from Trudeau’s performative politics.
But let’s not get too comfortable.
I also explore eyebrow-raising Liberal policies still on the table: statutory funding for the CBC, the push for a national digital ID, IVF funding directed toward specific groups, and a carbon tax on foreign goods based on other countries’ climate policy (yes, really).
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Professor Paul Robinson — historian, author, and expert in Russian and Eastern European studies — to explore what lies beneath the dominant narratives of the Ukraine-Russia war. We cover everything from sanctions, NATO posturing, and artillery use to questions of democracy and the role of the West’s military-industrial complex. We also take a sobering look at Ukraine’s demographic and economic future, and why so few are willing to question the consensus. A wide-ranging conversation that challenges conventional thinking and asks: Are we even allowed to have this conversation?
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
Why does the Western narrative on Ukraine feel so one-sided? In this episode of the Open Minds Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ivan Katchanovski, a Ukrainian-Canadian political scientist whose peer-reviewed research sheds a sobering light on Ukraine’s internal divisions, the roots of war, and the media’s oversimplified story.
We talk about Crimea, Donbas, NATO and the infamous Maidan sniper massacre—an event that reshaped Ukraine and global geopolitics. Dr. Katchanovski’s insights challenge widely held beliefs and force us to ask: what do we really know about this war?
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
Interestingly, Canadians have shown their support for capital punishment almost 50 years of polling data. In 2025, Research Co. found that approximately 54 percent of Canadians agree with capital punishment, which has largely remained unchanged since the 1970s.
I sit down with Mario Canseco, president of ResearchCo. While Canada abolished the death penalty in 1976, public support remains surprisingly strong. What drives Canadians to favour its reinstatement? Is it justice, deterrence, or economics?
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
Christopher Balkaran dives into Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program with Professor Jason Foster from Athabasca University. We explore the realities of migrant labor, the economic dependency on foreign workers, and the impact on Canadian workers. Is the program a necessary economic tool, or has it become a permanent fixture in our labor market? Join us for a deep dive into the policies, challenges, and future of Canada’s labor force.
🎙 Host: Christopher Balkaran
📢 Guest: Jason Foster, Director of Parkland Institute, Labour Relations Expert
🔗 Listen anywhere you stream podcasts or at: www.openmindspodcast.com
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
On the three-year anniversary of the Freedom Convoy, I sit down with former Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly to unpack the complexities of one of the most significant protests in modern Canadian history. From media narratives to the role of law enforcement, we explore what really happened in February 2022 and what it reveals about Canada’s social and political fabric. Was there a policing solution to the Freedom Convoy? What lessons can we learn for the future? Join me for this deep dive into a moment that changed the country.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Dr. Kerry Bowman, a Canadian bioethicist and environmentalist, to discuss the ethical implications of vaccine mandates and pandemic policies. We explore the balance between individual autonomy and collective responsibility, the unintended consequences of strict public health measures, and how marginalized groups—including Indigenous communities and those with disabilities—were affected.
Dr. Bowman also discusses the role of social interaction in mental well-being and how policy decisions during the pandemic may have fueled social isolation. Finally, we touch on the ethics of medical assistance in dying (MAiD) and how Canada’s evolving policy on euthanasia raises critical questions about social determinants of health.
Government of Canada. Fifth Annual Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada, 2024. Ottawa, 2024.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Dr. Robert Klitzman—director of the Masters of Bioethics program at Columbia University—to delve into the complex intersections of medicine, ethics, and culture. In this episode, we explore fascinating stories from Papua New Guinea, the cultural roots of disease understanding, the profound vulnerability of patients, and the challenges of doctor-patient communication. Dr. Klitzman’s insights on holistic medicine and the ethical dilemmas in modern healthcare are both thought-provoking and deeply human.
Robert Klitzman's work:
https://global.oup.com/academic/product/doctor-will-you-pray-for-me-9780197750841
https://amzn.to/42RVgDL
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
How has border security evolved with technology? In this episode of the Open Minds Podcast, I sit down with Professor Rey Koslowski, a leading scholar on border control and migration.
I explore how AI, drones, biometrics, and facial recognition are transforming border management—raising both security concerns and ethical questions.
💡 Topics Discussed:
✅ The first border sensors from Vietnam War-era military surplus
✅ The 1990s border rushes & how enforcement changed migration patterns
✅ Post-9/11 security measures & the rise of global data-sharing agreements
✅ AI & facial recognition in border control—the role of Clearview AI
✅ Ethical concerns: How much surveillance is too much?
BorderControl #Migration #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #Surveillance #HomelandSecurity #USMexicoBorder #ImmigrationPolicy #Technology #Geopolitics
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I welcome back Chloe Smellink, psychotherapist-in-training, for a deep dive into men’s mental health, the stigma surrounding therapy, the troubling rise of MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying) in Canada, and the broader societal issues affecting mental well-being.
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome Back, Chloe
05:00 – How Men Approach Mental Health
12:00 – The Cost of Avoiding Difficult Conversations
20:00 – The Silent Crisis: Why Men Feel Helpless
30:00 – Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada: Are We Giving Up Too Easily?
45:00 – The White Male Epidemic: Why Are They Overrepresented in MAiD?
55:00 – Breaking the Cycle: Solutions for Men’s Mental Health
1:10:00 – Closing Thoughts & Resources
Links: https://client.alli.io/therapists/Chloe_Smellink/
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Dr. Ramona Coelho to revisit the complex and controversial topic of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada. Dr. Coelho shares insights from recent Health Canada and Ontario coroner reports, revealing safety concerns, ethical dilemmas, and the societal failures that lead many to seek MAiD. We discuss cases driven by financial constraints, housing insecurity, and loneliness, and explore how Canada’s policies differ from other jurisdictions like California and Europe.
🔗 Subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnJo4x2CUkGO4oaryY2_aQA
🌐 Visit my website for more episodes: www.openmindspodcast.com
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I engage with Jessica Vaughan, Director of Policy Studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, to break down the complexities and consequences of modern immigration policies. Jessica shares insights from her extensive experience in immigration policy, including her work with the U.S. Foreign Service and the Department of Justice.
Key topics include:
•Mass Immigration and Labour Distortions: How unchecked immigration policies, including the exploitation of the H-1B visa program, have led to wage suppression and job displacement in the tech industry, often benefiting large staffing firms over local talent.
•Special Interests and Policy Manipulation: Jessica explores how special interest groups and influential politicians, such as Senator Ted Kennedy, shaped immigration laws to favour employers and low-cost labour rather than the public interest.
•Border Security and Enforcement: The discussion highlights the effectiveness of border enforcement policies and the consequences of weak enforcement under the Biden administration, including the rise in illegal crossings and human trafficking concerns.
•The Impact of Sanctuary Cities: Jessica explains how sanctuary policies can unintentionally protect criminal activity, leading to public safety concerns while compromising law enforcement efforts.
•Birth Rates vs. Immigration: Jessica challenges the notion that mass immigration can offset declining birth rates, emphasizing the financial strains imposed on social welfare systems by poorly regulated immigration policies.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I continue my conversation with NOAA’s Tom Knutson, diving deeper into the multi-decadal view of hurricane patterns in the Atlantic. Together, we explore the complexities of hurricane frequency and intensity, uncovering why the long-term, multi-decadal variability is crucial in understanding Atlantic hurricane activity.
Tom shares insights into two leading theories explaining Atlantic variability—shifts in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and aerosol cooling from past industrial activity. We also tackle the factors beyond sea surface temperatures that influence hurricanes, such as vertical wind shear and atmospheric moisture. Wrapping up, we discuss how advancements in climate modeling could help us make more accurate long-term projections, emphasizing the importance of integrating scientific understanding into policy decisions.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
In this episode, I am joined by climate expert Tom Knutson to explore the nuanced science of climate change, focusing on Atlantic hurricane patterns, extreme rainfall, and the complexities of climate modelling. Tom sheds light on the challenges in attributing natural disasters to human influence, emphasizing the importance of understanding multi-decadal variability, regional factors, and the limitations of current data.
We discuss how these intricacies are often overlooked in mainstream narratives and why a pragmatic approach to climate science is essential for informed public discourse.
Research cited:
1.IPCC AR5 and AR6 Reports
•IPCC’s reports provide global assessments on climate change. AR5 and AR6 discuss confidence levels in attributing tropical cyclone activity and rainfall to human influence.
•IPCC AR5 Full Report
•IPCC AR6 Full Report
2.Multi-Decadal Variability in the Atlantic
•Studies explore Atlantic multi-decadal variability, cycles in hurricane activity, and how these may be driven by aerosol levels or changes in ocean circulation.
•NOAA on Atlantic Multi-Decadal Variability
3.Hurricane Harvey Case Study (2017)
•Hurricane Harvey’s record-breaking rainfall is often cited in studies examining how atmospheric warming affects water vapor and extreme precipitation rates.
•NOAA’s Summary on Hurricane Harvey
4.Study by Jim Kossin on Slowing Propagation Speeds of Tropical Cyclones
•Jim Kossin’s research found that the movement speed of tropical cyclones slowed significantly over land, affecting rainfall accumulation.
•Kossin’s Study in Nature
6.Increased Water Vapor and Hurricane Rainfall Rates
•Studies show that higher atmospheric water vapor, linked to warming, increases rainfall rates in hurricanes, with simulations suggesting a 7% rise per degree Celsius.
•NASA on Climate Change and Water Vapor
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
Chloe Smellink and Christopher Balkaran explore a range of topics including political assumptions, media influence, LGBTQAI+ representation, and the importance of mental health, particularly for men. They discuss the societal pressures that shape perceptions and behaviours, the role of communication in relationships, and the need for a holistic approach to health. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of curiosity, acceptance, and the balance between personal and professional life.
Check out Chloe:
Instagram: @chloecantsmell
https://www.litemindbody.com/chloe
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
AUDIO BLOG of my NEWSLETTER:
openminds.substack.com
SUBSCRIBE/LIKE/COMMENT
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
A bit of a different take: I engage in a deep conversation with Professor Matthew Alan Sears, a classical historian specializing in ancient Greek history. We explore the power of historical narratives, their influence on public memory, and how these narratives shape political ideologies, drawing connections between ancient history and contemporary politics.
1.Introduction to Professor Matthew Alan Sears (00:00 - 05:00)
2.The Power of Historical Narratives (05:01 - 15:00)
3.Symbolism and National Identity (15:01 - 25:00)
4.Selective Memory and Ideological Justification (25:01 - 35:00)
5.Contemporary Political Parallels (35:01 - 45:00)
6.Autobiography and Crafting Historical Legacies (45:01 - 55:00)
7.Conclusion and Reflections (55:01 - 57:22)
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a text
I sit down with Ethan, founder of Take Back Canada, to delve into the motivations behind the movement, the complexities of Canada’s immigration policies, and the influence of corporate interests on government decisions. Ethan shares his views on the need to reassess the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and reflects on the broader implications for Canada’s future.
1.Introduction and Ethan’s Background (00:00 - 05:00)
2.The Origins of Take Back Canada (05:01 - 10:00)
3.Concerns Over Mass Immigration (10:01 - 20:00)
4.Corporate Interests and Government Policies (20:01 - 30:00)
5.The Impact on Canadian Society (30:01 - 40:00)
6.Solutions and Policy Proposals (40:01 - 50:00)
7.The Role of Nationalism in Modern Canada (50:01 - 01:00:00)
8.Conclusion: A Call to Action (01:00:01 - 01:04:53)
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
In this episode, I dive into the creeping surveillance state emerging in Australia and explore how fear and crisis drive governments to implement draconian measures that chip away at civil liberties. We examine the pivotal 2014 Sydney Siege, which catalyzed sweeping changes in Australia’s security laws, and discuss how psychological biases like the availability heuristic and groupthink shape public opinion. From metadata retention laws to the influence of fear-driven policymaking, we unpack why societies are quick to trade freedom for a false sense of security—and what we can do to resist this trend. Join us as we explore how thoughtful debate and critical engagement are more important than ever in preserving democracy in the face of crisis.
Subscribe to the Curious Mondays
Visit the Open Minds Podcast Website
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Christopher interviews Ambassador Jerry Feierstein, a veteran diplomat and Middle East expert, to explore the intricacies behind the Abraham Accords. They discuss the historical context, economic motivations, and security dynamics that led to the normalization of relations between Israel and several Arab states. The conversation delves into the sidelining of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the shifting power dynamics in the region, and the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy. This episode offers listeners a nuanced perspective on one of the most significant diplomatic developments in recent Middle Eastern history.
Mindfully Gay Podcast
Hosted by Nick Walton, John Cottrell, and Jerry Buie
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, a leading expert in food distribution and policy discusses major issues COVID brought in. Sylvain discusses the challenges faced by supply chains, the politicization of food inflation, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on global food security. The conversation also touches on the role of grocery businesses, the future of agriculture, and the critical importance of long-term planning in a rapidly changing world.
Check out Sylvain's Podcast: https://the-food-professor.simplecast.com/
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Lionel Loganathan’s family immigrated to Canada from Sri Lanka in 1985, escaping the civil war and genocide that plagued their homeland. His father, a limousine driver, worked tirelessly to provide for the family, embodying the resilience and sacrifice common among immigrant families. Loganathan’s upbringing in Scarborough and Markham, Ontario, shaped his identity and values. He recounts his father’s long hours and dedication, emphasizing the work ethic instilled in him by his parents. This narrative is a microcosm of the broader immigrant experience in Canada, where many families work hard to secure a better future for their children.
https://markhamthornhill.conservativeeda.ca/
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Friends - a quick episode introducing the concept of the 'Spiral of Silence'. The Spiral of Silence Theory, proposed by Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann, suggests that individuals may be less likely to express their opinions if they perceive that they are in the minority, due to fear of isolation or social rejection. This can lead to a situation where the dominant opinion appears even more dominant, while dissenting voices remain silent.
What are your thoughts? Also, subscribe to my Blog, where I'll be talking about this at greater length:
openminds.substack.com
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Breast implants have been a popular cosmetic procedure since the 1960s. Initially, the silicone used in these implants was more liquid, but today’s implants are more viscous, often referred to as “gummy bear” implants. Despite technological advancements, the body often reacts to these foreign objects with an immune response, forming scar capsules around the implants. This can lead to complications such as capsular contracture, where the tissue tightens around the implant, causing discomfort and an unnatural appearance. Dr. Brown’s discussion highlights the importance of understanding these risks, as many women are not fully informed about the potential long-term consequences of implants.
A key theme in the podcast is the psychological factors that drive individuals to seek breast implants. Dr. Brown discusses the “breast rule book,” a societal construct that dictates the idealized appearance of breasts and the associated value placed on them. This construct influences many women’s decisions to get implants, as they seek to align their physical appearance with societal standards of femininity and attractiveness. The desire to belong and meet these standards often overrides concerns about the risks, leading many to undergo surgery despite potential complications.
Check out Dr. Brown's work here
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
In this conversation, Christopher Balkaran and Alison discuss the recent political events, including Joe Biden's presidency, the attempted assassination on Donald Trump, and the Democratic Party's internal dynamics. They explore the pressure on Biden to step down, the loyalty of his advisors, and the impact of polling data on his decision-making. Alison highlights the personal challenges Biden has faced throughout his life and the resilience he has shown. They also touch on the divisions within the Democratic Party and the Republican Party's initial confidence in winning the election. The conversation explores the perception of Joe Biden as an old man and the importance of policy in presidential elections. It highlights the similarities in policy between Biden and Trump, as well as the bipartisan work done by politicians behind the scenes. The discussion also touches on the role of media in shaping public perception and the tendency for politics to be driven by narratives rather than policy. The conversation concludes with a prediction of the next six to eight weeks leading up to the Democratic convention.
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Water quality is an important topic for Canadians to be aware of, as there are misconceptions about the abundance of fresh water in the country. Water quality is governed by federal and provincial agencies in Canada, with regulations in place to ensure public health and protect water resources. Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment, but it can also have negative effects, such as the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs), which are carcinogenic. Microplastics are a growing concern in water sources, originating from synthetic materials like polyester and polyethylene in clothing. The conversation explores the presence of microplastics and endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in water sources. Microplastics are recalcitrant and do not degrade, posing a long-term environmental threat. EDCs, such as bisphenol A, mimic estrogen and can feminize fish and potentially impact human health. The detection of these compounds in water supplies raises questions about their potential effects and the need for regulation. However, the low concentrations found in water may not pose an immediate concern. Further research and public discussion are necessary to determine the extent of the problem and appropriate actions.
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Dr. Berry delves into the role of social media in exacerbating political polarization, describing how algorithms create echo chambers that amplify extreme viewpoints. He highlights the importance of media literacy and quality journalism in countering misinformation and fostering a more informed public.
The episode also explores the critical role of interest groups in shaping public policy. Dr. Berry explains how these groups operate within the American political system, lobbying legislators and influencing political decisions. He emphasizes that while interest groups are constitutionally protected and essential for democracy, they often represent narrow segments of the population, leading to policies that may not align with broader public interests.
Dr. Berry's Work and links:
The Outrage Industry: Political Opinion Media and the New Incivility
The Interest Group Society
Jeffrey Berry on X
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Christopher and Isadora discuss their unique approach to engaging in respectful conversations despite their differing perspectives. They explore the reasons behind political polarization, the use of violent lexicon in political discourse, and the challenges of gender-affirming care. They also discuss the need for more open conversations in Canada and the importance of providing psychological support for individuals considering gender-affirming surgeries. The conversation explores the differences in perspectives and experiences between men and women when it comes to decision-making, political ideologies, and workplace dynamics. It delves into the complexities of gender identity and how it does not necessarily align with political beliefs. The discussion also touches on the importance of understanding and respecting each other's emotions and experiences, as well as the need for men to have spaces for their own healing and self-care. The conversation highlights the value of diverse perspectives and the need for open and respectful dialogue. The conversation explores the gender dynamics in mental health and the impact of societal pressures on men's mental well-being. It delves into the concept of patriarchy and its residual effects on gender roles and expectations. The discussion also touches on the division between leftists and liberals, highlighting the differences in their perspectives on social justice and collective liberation. The conversation explores the blurring lines between right and left politics, cancel culture, and the complexities of punishment and accountability. It delves into the impact of shame and the potential for restorative justice. The discussion also touches on the challenges of reforming individuals with certain conditions and the trade-offs of punitive measures. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for mutual respect, understanding, and a new approach to societal issues.
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
Subscribe to Curious Mondays, My Weekly Newsletter!
I sit down with Dr. Alison Dagnes, a political science professor at Shippensburg University and author of insightful books on political media. Dr. Dagnes shares her unique experiences, starting with her time as a producer for C-SPAN, and delves into the evolution of political media into today's charged and polarized spectacle. We explore the significant benefits of media consumption, such as increased public access to information and enhanced civic engagement, highlighting findings from Pew Research Center and Deloitte Digital Media Trends.
However, the discussion also covers the substantial challenges posed by media consumption, including the spread of misinformation and heightened polarization, as evidenced by studies from Stanford and Pew Research. We also address the mental health impacts of media overload, supported by research from the American Psychological Association, and privacy concerns highlighted in a study from SpringerLink. Dr. Dagnes offers practical advice on managing media consumption to balance its benefits and drawbacks, emphasizing the importance of critical evaluation and mindful engagement with media sources. This episode provides valuable insights and strategies for navigating the complex media landscape.
Links:
Pew Research Center: Global views of social media and its impacts on society
Deloitte Digital Media Trends: Digital Media Trends 2024
Stanford Graduate School of Business: Social Media and News Consumption
American Psychological Association: Managing media overload
SpringerLink: Digital Technology and Changes in Media Consumption
The Battles We Pick - A podcast about advocacy and organizing
Changemakers talk about how social and political change really happens.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Send us a Text Message.
In this episode, I chat with Correne Antrobus, a dedicated advocate and member of Mom Stop the Harm, to explore the harrowing realities of the opioid crisis through her lived experience. Correne shares the personal journey of her daughter’s addiction, the challenges of seeking help, and the systemic gaps in addressing substance use. With raw honesty, she discusses the stigma surrounding addiction, the critical need for safe supply and housing, and the importance of community support. Correne's insights shed light on the human side of addiction, emphasizing the necessity of compassionate, non-judgmental approaches. This episode is a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis and the urgent need for comprehensive, empathetic solutions. Tune in to hear a powerful story of resilience, hope, and the fight for a better future for those affected by addiction.
Links Mentioned:
- Mom Stop the Harm
- Open Minds Podcast on YouTube
Tune in to hear a powerful story of resilience, hope, and the fight for a better future for those affected by addiction.
The Battles We Pick - A podcast about advocacy and organizing
Changemakers talk about how social and political change really happens.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
00:00 - Introduction and Background of Dr. Mark Tyndall
03:25 - The Importance of Harm Reduction in Treating Substance Use
05:58 - The Impact of Drug Use on Brain Rewiring
12:03 - Evaluating the Effectiveness of Supervised Injection Sites
16:02 - Challenges in Engaging Substance Users in Harm Reduction
24:07 - The Impact of Safe Injection Sites on Overdose Deaths and HIV Transmission
28:31 - The Political Aspect and Misunderstandings of Safe Injection Sites
34:09 - Shifting Societal Attitudes
44:54 - Dispelling Misconceptions
48:49 - The Cost-Effectiveness of Harm Reduction
53:35 - Engaging with Individuals and Offering Hope
Check out Mark Tyndall's work: https://www.ted.com/speakers/mark_tyndall
Dr. Mark Tyndall, a professor at the UBC School of Population and Public Health, discusses harm reduction and its importance in addressing drug use. Harm reduction is about making potentially risky behaviors less risky, and it is a key principle in public health. However, there is a stigma associated with harm reduction when it comes to illegal drug use. Dr. Tyndall emphasizes that harm reduction is the first step towards treatment and recovery, and that compassion and empathy are crucial in engaging people in the process. He also highlights the impact of drugs on the brain and the potential for healing and recovery. In this conversation, Mark Tyndall discusses the importance of harm reduction strategies in addressing drug addiction and the opioid crisis. He emphasizes that harm reduction is not about encouraging drug use, but rather about providing support, compassion, and safe environments for individuals struggling with addiction. Tyndall highlights the need for a shift in societal attitudes towards addiction, recognizing it as a disease that requires treatment and support rather than punishment. He also addresses the misconception that harm reduction strategies increase drug use, stating that there is no evidence to support this claim. Tyndall emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of harm reduction approaches compared to the criminal justice system and the importance of engaging with individuals and offering them hope and opportunities for recovery.
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
00:00 -Understanding Opiate Use Disorder
03:15 - The Link Between Opiate Use Disorder and Theft
06:12 - The Impact of Crime on Community Upheaval and Safety
30:29 - The High Cost of Supporting Individuals with Opiate Use Disorder
36:43 - The Importance of Stable Housing and Community Connections
46:44 - Types of Housing and Their Impact
53:23 - Social Isolation and Stigma
57:23 - Limitations of Harm Reduction as a Public Policy Response
SummaryOpiate use disorder is a diagnosed syndrome characterized by engaging in a behavior with detrimental consequences and a loss of control. It often leads to physiological dependence and a need for increasing doses. Theft is a common form of crime among those with opiate use disorder, as they struggle to support their drug habits. The impact of crime in a community goes beyond the act itself and can erode the social fabric and sense of safety. Harm reduction is a public health approach that aims to reduce the harms associated with drug use, including the provision of safe injection sites. However, the focus on harm reduction has shifted from a comprehensive approach to primarily focusing on consumption sites, which can attract criminal activity. The government of British Columbia spends up to $100,000 per year per opiate use disorder addict, with the majority of the money being spent on support services. The conversation explores the high costs associated with homelessness and addiction, the importance of stable housing and community connections, and the limitations of harm reduction as a public policy response. It emphasizes the need for decentralized, highly supported, choice-based housing options and comprehensive support services. The conversation also highlights the impact of social isolation and stigma on individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The research conducted by Julian Somers and his team demonstrates the effectiveness of providing housing and support services in improving the well-being and stability of individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction.
Just Access Podcast
Your go-to listen for fascinating interviews and discussions about human rights today
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
High Street Matters: Accessibility - Unlocking the High Street
We arm retailers with the key to unlock the potential of the high street... for all.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Living God's Way in an Ungodly World
In a world that makes up its own rules, Christians need to focus on Who rules! The Christ!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://www.christopherbalkaran.com
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
00:00
Introduction and Dr. Coelho's Work with Marginalized Patients
03:23
The Importance of Community and Non-Medical Factors in Recovery
05:14
Examples of Recovery Without Medical Improvement
08:13
The Intersection of Medical Assistance in Dying and Recovery
10:17
The Messaging and Impact of Medical Assistance in Dying
11:41
The Role of Mental Health and Suicidality in Medical Assistance in Dying
14:47
The Complexity of Recovery and the Dangers of Medical Assistance in Dying
21:21
Accessibility and Barriers to Medical Assistance in Dying
24:37
Gaps in Mental Health Services and the Need for Accessibility
30:21
Stigma Surrounding Mental Health and its Impact on Accessing Care
32:20
The Influence of Thoughts on Mental Health
33:14
Legislative Safeguards and Waiting Periods
34:51
Issues with the Current Legislation
36:36
The Ethical Question of the Right to Die
37:23
The False Claim of Made as a Solution to Suicides
41:17
Motivations for Suicide and Made
42:13
The Rationality of Made and the False Claim of Distinction from Suicide
44:53
The Co-option of the Made Conversation
48:24
Quebec's Approach to Made and Accessibility for Different Age Groups
53:54
The Importance of Holistic Healthcare and the Failures of the System
58:41
The Government's Role in Legitimizing Hopelessness
Takeaways
- Recovery from severe mental health issues often involves non-medical factors such as community support and a sense of purpose.
- The messaging around medical assistance in dying can undermine resilience and suicide prevention efforts.
- The definition and interpretation of irremediable illness in medical assistance in dying are broad and open to different interpretations.
- There are barriers to accessing mental health services and chronic care in Canada, which can contribute to the desire for medical assistance in dying.
- Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking care and contribute to prolonged suffering.
SummaryDr. Coelho discusses her work with marginalized patients and the importance of community and non-medical factors in recovery. She shares examples of patients who have experienced recovery without medical improvement. The conversation then shifts to the intersection of medical assistance in dying and recovery, highlighting the dangers of messaging that suggests suicide is an appropriate response to suffering. The definition and interpretation of irremediable illness in medical assistance in dying are explored, along with the accessibility and barriers to accessing this option. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the gaps in mental health services and the stigma surrounding mental health. This conversation explores various themes related to medical assistance in dying (MAID) and its implications. The chapters cover topics such as the influence of thoughts on mental health, legislative safeguards and waiting periods, issues with the current legislation, the ethical question of the right to die, the false claim of MAID as a solution to suicides, motivations for suicide and MAID, the rationality of MAID, the co-option of the MAID conversation, Quebec's approach to MAID and accessibility for different age groups, the importance of holistic healthcare, and the government's role in legitimizing hopelessness.
Support the Show.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
SummaryDr. Jack Haggerty and Dr. Karen Neufeld discuss the inclusion of irremediability in Bill C-7, which allows for medical assistance in dying (MAID) even if natural death is not reasonably foreseeable. They explain that this inclusion was compelled by case law, specifically the Truchon case. However, they express concerns about the challenges of implementing this provision, particularly in the field of psychiatry. They highlight the difficulty of determining irremediability in mental illnesses and the potential overlap between requests for MAID and suicidal intent. They also emphasize the need for a deeper conversation and more careful consideration of the implications of expanding MAID to include mental disorders. Finally, they discuss the evidence of psychiatric recovery and the importance of providing hope and support to individuals experiencing mental illness. The conversation explores the importance of hope and treatment options in psychiatry, the stigma surrounding mental illness, the ability to adapt to traumatic events, the therapeutics of hope and consistency, the barriers to accessing mental health care, and the public perception of MAiD.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Overview
00:29
Bill C-7 and Medical Assistance in Dying
01:12
Compelled by Case Law
05:29
Concerns about Irremediability
07:39
Challenges in Distinguishing Suicidality from Made Requests
12:00
Evidence of Psychiatric Recovery
33:42
The Stigma of Mental Illness and Conveying Hope
36:22
Adapting to Traumatic Events and the Long-Term Effects
38:36
The Therapeutics of Hope and Consistency
42:11
Access to Mental Health Care and Barriers
48:12
The Public Perception and Support for MAiD
Takeaways
- Bill C-7 allows for medical assistance in dying (MAID) even if natural death is not reasonably foreseeable.
- The inclusion of irremediability in MAID has raised concerns about implementation, particularly in the field of psychiatry.
- Determining irremediability in mental illnesses is challenging, and there is potential overlap between requests for MAID and suicidal intent.
- Expanding MAID to include mental disorders requires a deeper conversation and careful consideration of the implications. Hope is a crucial component of psychiatric treatment and should be instilled in patients to provide them with a sense of purpose, meaning, and belonging.
- The stigma surrounding mental illness makes it challenging to convey hope and educate the public about the effectiveness of psychiatric interventions.
- People have the ability to adapt to traumatic events and find hope for the future, even in the face of severe disabilities.
- Consistency in providing evidence-based care and support is essential for long-term mental health outcomes.
- Access to mental health care is a significant barrier, both in underserved areas and highly resourced regions, and more investment and systemic improvements are needed.
- Public support for medical assistance in dying (MADE) for severe treatment-resistant mental disorders is high, but there are concerns about defining treatment resistance and ensuring adequate access to other treatment options.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Subscribe to my Newsletter:
https://substack.com/@openminds?utm_source=profile-page
Subscribe to my Insta: @openmindspod
The conversation explores the misinformation and mischaracterization surrounding medical assistance in dying (MAID). It highlights the need for accurate data and nuanced discussions to counteract the sensationalism often associated with MAID. The chapters cover topics such as the two tracks for MAID approval, the assessment of choice made under duress, the consideration of mature minors for MAID, and the importance of informed dialogue.
Takeaways
- Misinformation about MAID can lead to misconceptions and mischaracterizations of the practice.
- Nuanced discussions and accurate data are essential to counteract sensationalism and promote understanding of MAID.
- The two tracks for MAID approval provide safeguards and ensure careful consideration of each individual's circumstances.
- The assessment of choice made under duress is a crucial aspect of MAID eligibility.
- The consideration of mature minors for MAID requires careful evaluation and involvement of parents or guardians.
- Public awareness and shifting perceptions contribute to a more informed and compassionate approach to MAID.
Chapters
00:00
Misinformation about medical assistance in dying
04:04
Mischaracterization of medical assistance in dying
08:58
Bringing nuance to the conversation
09:26
Recognizing the humanity and importance of choice
11:50
Assessing the choice made under duress
25:02
Desire for death as a symptom of mental illness
32:35
Shifting perceptions and public awareness
41:18
Considering mature minors for medical assistance in dying
50:21
Informing and having dialogue
51:35
The cruel choice and the importance of not forcing it
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
I'm Back!!
Subscribe to my Newsletter:
https://substack.com/@openminds?utm_source=profile-page
Subscribe to my Insta: @openmindspod
In this conversation, Jane discusses the process for international students who want to study in Canada. She highlights the financial considerations and challenges they face, including the high cost of tuition and living expenses. Jane also shares examples of study permit refusals and the biases that can be present in the immigration system. She emphasizes the importance of seeking justice through the judicial system when facing unfair decisions. This conversation explores various challenges and issues within the Canadian immigration system. It highlights the financial burden faced by immigration applicants and the frequent need to appeal government decisions. The conversation also touches on potential political motives in immigration policies and the impact of international students on the housing market. Inspiring success stories of immigrants who have overcome adversity are shared. The conversation concludes by acknowledging the discombobulated nature of the immigration system and the need for reform.
Takeaways
- International students face significant financial challenges when studying in Canada, including high tuition fees and living expenses.
- Study permit applications for international students have a high refusal rate, and the process can be complex and costly.
- Prejudice and bias can be present in the immigration system, leading to unfair decisions and refusals.
- Seeking justice through the judicial system can be a recourse for individuals facing biased or unfair treatment in the immigration process. The Canadian immigration system poses financial challenges for applicants, who must have significant funds to support themselves and pay for services.
- Many immigration applicants face the need to appeal government decisions, indicating flaws in the system and the importance of hiring knowledgeable professionals.
- Political motives may influence immigration policies, with special programs being offered to individuals from specific regions affected by conflicts or disasters.
- International students contribute to the housing market pressure, but their living conditions often involve shared accommodations and lower rental costs.
- Inspiring success stories demonstrate the determination and resilience of immigrants who come to Canada seeking a better life.
- The Canadian immigration system is discombobulated and in need of reform to address issues such as inconsistent decision-making and lack of communication.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
My discussion with Mahmoud Mourra on the protests against LGBTQ discussions in the classroom.
Support the show
Visit my Website: https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
LGBTQ issues have been in the news, particularly with more parents and concerned citizens worried about school curricula including discussions on gender fluidity and sexual orientation. I chat with Dean Lobo and Reenita V of the 519, a local non-profit in Toronto that works with the LGBTQ2+ community on these issues.
Connect with the 519: https://www.the519.org/
The 519's Media Guide: https://the519mediaguide.org/
-SUPPORT THE OPEN MINDS PODCAST-
🛒 Support and Engage
Now, you have a chance to be part of my massive endeavour of changing the world with each conversation!. Whether you're a listener who yearns for balanced conversations or a business looking to make a positive impact, consider supporting the podcast. Sponsor an episode or explore the curated items on Chris's Amazon store, where your purchase directly contributes to the podcast's growth and continued engagement. Here’s how:
Buy a book from my Amazon store: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/openmindspod
Support the Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1428583/su...
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Petition to the Law Society of Alberta: https://www.change.org/p/get-politics-out-of-the-law-society-of-alberta?recruiter=1292735136&recruited_by_id=c75c5010-9907-11ed-b6c6-876123ba9012&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink&pt=AVBldGl0aW9uADVRwAEAAAAAZLCEO0uX024yZjE2NDM1OQ%3D%3D&utm_content=cl_sharecopy_36827011_en-CA%3A5
Check out the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms - https://www.jccf.ca/
Glenn Blackett - Law Society Going Woke - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHVevT4fy_k
-SUPPORT THE OPEN MINDS PODCAST-
🛒 Support and Engage
Now, you have a chance to be part of my massive endeavour of changing the world with each conversation!. Whether you're a listener who yearns for balanced conversations or a business looking to make a positive impact, consider supporting the podcast. Sponsor an episode or explore the curated items on Chris's Amazon store, where your purchase directly contributes to the podcast's growth and continued engagement. Here’s how:
Buy a book from my Amazon store: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/openmindspod
Support the Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1428583/su...
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Support the show
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
-WATCH THIS INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE-
My conversation with Jamil Jivani is available on YouTube - https://youtu.be/kCxLOvJFZHU?si=BwZ_EpUNLOgeUlW4
-SUPPORT THE OPEN MINDS PODCAST-
🛒 Support and Engage
Now, you have a chance to be part of my massive endeavour of changing the world with each conversation!. Whether you're a listener who yearns for balanced conversations or a business looking to make a positive impact, consider supporting the podcast. Sponsor an episode or explore the curated items on Chris's Amazon store, where your purchase directly contributes to the podcast's growth and continued engagement. Here’s how:
Buy a book from my Amazon store: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/openmindspod
Support the Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1428583/su...
-JAMIL JIVANI-
Listen to Jamil's story: • Jamil Jivani speaks at Coalition of C...
Jamil Jivani's Interview on Why Young Men: • Author Jamil Jivani on why young men ...
Purchase Why Young Men: https://amzn.to/45GYzw3
Learn more about Jamil: https://www.votejamil.ca/about
https://www.votejamil.ca/
Support the showVisit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Michael Geist is a prominent Canadian law professor and advocate for digital rights and freedoms. With his expertise in technology law and policy, he has been a vocal critic of government initiatives that threaten online freedom and privacy. Professor Geist shares his views on public concerns regarding policy development and the potential impact on freedom of expression and online platforms.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Professor Judith A. Curry discusses her new book, "Climate Uncertainty and Risk." The conversation delves into the inadequacy of global climate models in predicting regional climate change and extreme weather events. Professor Curry sheds light on the inappropriate use of climate model output in shaping public policy decisions. The discussion also explores the complex nature of climate change, the underestimation of volcanic activity in climate modeling, and the limitations of cost-benefit analysis in policy formulation.
Get Professor Curry's Book here - https://amzn.to/3NnNObq
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
The rise of deepfake technology has brought forth significant implications for society and human behaviour. Deepfakes, which are manipulated or synthesized media content created using artificial intelligence, can convincingly depict individuals saying or doing things they never actually did. While deepfakes hold potential for entertainment and creative applications, they also pose challenges and risks, particularly in areas such as politics, entertainment, and pornography.
I chat with Todd C. Helmus, Senior behavioral scientist at the RAND Corporation and a nationally recognized expert on disinformation and violent extremism. He specializes in the use of data and evidence-based strategies to understand and counter disinformation and extremism. He has studied the disinformation threat posed by deepfakes, Russian-led propaganda campaigns targeting the United States and Europe, and the use of social media by violent extremist groups.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
"It's taught from young: Distrust the police, hate the police. They're not here to help."
The link between poverty and crime is well-documented, but learning from frontline law enforcement could help us understand the complexity and nuance of this linkage.
What should we be focusing on?
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
"Poverty is one of the Leading Causes of Death."
I've always been fascinated by the link between poverty and health outcomes in the US. Making informed decisions on health care may be even more difficult for those worrying about making it through the next meal. As well, young children stand to feel the impact the most, with lower levels of nutrition (or many unhealthy food choices in their communities).
What are some things governments should focus on instead? How can we move the yard stick forward? I chat with a Resident Physician in New Jersey, to talk about their experiences and what they see on a daily basis.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
I am certain you've heard that a 4-day work week is gaining traction coming out of the COVID-19 Pandemic with employers. Not only has the Work-from-Home experience taught many employers that office workers can be as productive from anywhere, there is growing evidence that shows workers are more happy and engaged when they have an extra day each week. While the research is not definitive and there are many caveats to the perceived benefits of a 4-day work week (e.g., certain businesses cannot be fully adapted to a shorter work week), the organization, 4 Day Week Global has been undertaking pilots in the UK and the results seem promising.
In this conversation, I talk to Charlotte Lockhart, co-founder of 4 Day Week Global to hear some of the benefits that have been found. As well, what should companies consider before pursuing a shortened work week? Charlotte co-authored "What Leaders Need to Know Before Trying a 4 Day Work Week," which was used as the basis for this discussion.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts:
Instagram @openmindspod
Tiktok @openmindspodcast
Hello Friends! This episode is a bit of a departure from my usual content - but in a good way. I chat with the Creator of Blah TO: a satirical take on the local news in the city I'm in - Toronto!
Here in the City, there is a locally-famous social media/website called 'BlogTO'. While it is a great resource for good restaurants and local events, its headlines can be over-the-top and at times, a bit click-baity - for which the comments section is unforgiving to them.
For the Creator of Blah TO - instead of calling out every infraction, or misrepresentation in the news, it was important instead to inject satire and humour. Each post of Blah TO is done with special attention to word usage conveying a message in a clear way. One glance, and you totally get it.
While maintaining their anonymity, the creator of Blah TO has amassed thousands of followers and hundreds of thousands of impressions through social media posts. What's in store for the future? And what advice does the creator behind Blah TO have for those wanting to put out content and maintain their privacy?
Check out Blah TO's social media and give them a follow:
https://www.instagram.com/blah_to_official/
https://www.facebook.com/blahtoronto
https://twitter.com/BlahTO_Official
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Check out Professor Willie Elliott's Research: https://ssw.umich.edu/faculty/profiles/tenure-track/willelli?tb=research#52289-publications
The usual strategy deployed by the US govt to help students is student debt cancellation. This particularly is important for students who may not have access to resources to start saving and investing in assets at an earlier age.
But is it the most effective way of setting students up for success? Professor Willie Elliott, from the University of Michigan and I discuss this in more detail.
Having a clear understanding of the impact of student loans, particularly when income projections - particularly for 2-year degrees - might be lower than what was originally thought.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Racism and Gender issues are in the news and there is a hot debate whether all the nuances should be discussed
Why are Racism and Gender Issues So Taboo to Discuss in the Classroom?
Racism and gender issues can be taboo to discuss in the classroom for several reasons, including:
- Fear of causing discomfort: Discussions of racism and gender issues can bring up uncomfortable feelings and memories for some students. Teachers may be hesitant to broach these topics for fear of making students feel upset or angry.
- Lack of knowledge or training: Teachers may not feel equipped to lead discussions about racism and gender issues. They may not have received training on how to address these topics in a classroom setting, or they may not have a deep understanding of the issues themselves.
- Concerns about controversy: Teachers may worry that discussing racism and gender issues will be controversial and may upset parents, administrators, or other stakeholders. This can lead them to avoid the topics altogether.
- Time constraints: Teachers may feel like they do not have enough time to properly address these complex topics in the classroom. They may worry that they will not be able to cover the necessary material while also allowing time for discussion and reflection.
What are the Negative Consequences of Not Talking about Race and Gender in the Classroom?
Not talking about race and gender in the classroom can have several negative consequences, including:
- Reinforcing stereotypes and biases: When race and gender are not discussed in the classroom, students may develop incomplete or inaccurate views of these topics based on the limited information they have access to. This can reinforce harmful stereotypes and biases that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.
- Fostering ignorance and apathy: Without discussions about race and gender, students may lack the knowledge and understanding necessary to recognize and address issues of inequality and discrimination. This can lead to a sense of apathy or disengagement when it comes to social justice issues.
- Creating discomfort and disengagement: When students from marginalized communities do not see themselves or their experiences represented in the classroom, they may feel uncomfortable or disengaged from the learning process. This can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from the academic community.
- Missing opportunities for learning and growth: Discussions of race and gender can provide valuable opportunities for learning and growth. When these topics are not addressed in the classroom, students miss out on important opportunities to build empathy, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Nothing is changing more rapidly it seems, like modern dating.
I wanted to explore this further by having both male and female perspectives share their views on modern dating and what they expect from the other on first dates, finances and building a connection.
The results were fascinating. What do you think about this? Send me an email to christopher@openmindspodcast.com, or visit my website, www.openmindspodcast.com to let me know more!
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
"...people with seemingly 'less severe' social anxiety disorders may experience a worse course than those with prototypical serious illness, like schizophrenia, because the fright and nervousness defining their anxiety prevents them from seeking the most demanding of jobs, thereby rendering them unable to live on their own. Some people with schizophrenia are able to live with recurring auditory hallucinations without distress, pursue a career and enjoy a full family life."
It's so fascinating researching mental health and wellness. I came across research from Pat Corrigan et. al called, "The Impact of Mental Illness Stigma on Seeking and Participating in Mental Health Care," which the quote above is taken from.
This was truly fascinating to me. Could it be that most of us are not living our lives to the fullest due to low levels of social anxiety, fear and depression? And why do so many of us drop out of care after the first few visits to a mental health professional?
Who is Pat Corrigan?
Patrick Corrigan is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology and a core faculty member in the Division of Counseling and Rehabilitation Science.
How Can Mental Illness Impact Your Daily Life?
Mental illness can impact different people in different ways, and the symptoms of mental illness can vary depending on the specific disorder. There are some common signs that mental illness may be getting in the way of your life, including the following:
Interference with daily functioning: Mental illness can affect your ability to carry out daily tasks, such as going to work, attending school, or completing household chores. If you find it difficult to carry out these tasks or they take significantly longer than usual, it may be a sign that mental illness is affecting your life.
Changes in mood or behaviour: Mental illness can cause changes in your mood, behavior, or personality. You may feel more irritable, anxious, or depressed than usual, or you may engage in behaviors that are out of character for you.
Difficulty maintaining relationships: Mental illness can also impact your ability to maintain relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. You may withdraw from social situations, have difficulty communicating with others, or experience conflict in your relationships.
Physical symptoms: Mental illness can also cause physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain. These symptoms may not have an underlying medical cause and can impact your ability to function normally.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/H8kJFn23MWA
I've always been interested in the topic of Gender Dysphoria (GD) and Conversion Therapy. I am noticing many are making sweeping statements on GD and what the implications for youth are. I wanted to explore the topic more with one of the most well-renowned researchers and Clinical Psychologists on the topic: Ken Zucker.
Who is Ken Zucker?
Kenneth Zucker is a Canadian psychologist and researcher who has studied and treated gender identity issues, including gender dysphoria, for many years. He is known for his work in the field of gender identity development in children and adolescents, and his approach to treatment has been controversial.
Zucker is the former head of the Gender Identity Service at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, Canada, and has published numerous articles and books on gender identity development and treatment. His approach to treatment has been criticized by some in the transgender community who feel that his methods, which included encouraging children to conform to their assigned gender, were harmful and outdated.
In 2015, an external review of the CAMH gender identity clinic found that some of Zucker's practices were not in line with current standards of care for transgender people, and he was subsequently dismissed from his position at the clinic. Since then, Zucker has continued to publish and speak on the topic of gender identity development and treatment, but his work remains controversial and continues to be the subject of debate in the scientific and transgender communities.
What is Gender Dysphoria?
Gender dysphoria is a medical term used to describe the distress or discomfort that some people experience when the gender they were assigned at birth does not match their gender identity. In other words, a person with gender dysphoria may feel that their biological sex (male or female) does not correspond to the gender they feel they are (male, female, or non-binary).
Gender dysphoria can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including feeling uncomfortable with one's body, experiencing anxiety or depression related to gender identity, and feeling a strong desire to live as a gender different from the one assigned at birth.
It is important to note that gender dysphoria is not the same as being transgender. While many transgender people experience gender dysphoria, not all do, and experiencing gender dysphoria does not necessarily mean that someone is transgender. Gender dysphoria is considered a medical condition and can be treated through a variety of means, including therapy, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgery.
What are Some of the Behaviours Children Exhibit that May Lead to a Diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria?
Children who experience gender dysphoria may display a range of characteristics that indicate their discomfort or distress with the gender they were assigned at birth. These characteristics may include:
- A persistent and strong desire to be of the opposite gender or a gender that is different from the one assigned at birth.
- Strong feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or distress about their assigned gender.
- Preference for clothing, toys, or activities typically associated with the opposite gender.
- Insistence on being addressed by a name or pronoun that matches their gender identity, rather than their assigned gender.
- Rejection of clothing, toys, or activities typically associated with their assigned gender.
- Distress or discomfort about their physical body, especially during puberty.
- Social isolation or difficulty fitting in with peers of their assigned gender.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Watch the Dinner Table Episode 01 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/892yRUJJ0uk
I'm sure you have had thoughtful conversations over a Dinner Table with family or friends, and often wish it were recorded(!). When I was in University, I would always bring home interesting conversation topics to the family dinner table - I'm still not sure how well these were always perceived - but it was a great way to break bread, engage with others and have really informal and engaging chats.
My plan is to do a Dinner Table conversation once per month and increase frequency depending on how well it's received.
Have an idea for the Dinner Table? Why not send me a message: christopher@openmindspodcast.com
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Despite the benefits of Affirmative Action as told by Professor Harry Holzer, there also exists many challenges when the policy framework is deployed in College and University admissions. While the intention of admitting students from different backgrounds may be noble, by building a more diverse student body - are schools providing the necessary supports for students to succeed? And if not, could this indirectly be exacerbating the divide between students of different backgrounds?
I invited Professor Peter Arcidiacono on to discuss further. Professor Arcidiacono's work has focused on noting friendship formations based both on race and academic backgrounds. The findings were fascinating. Could Affirmative Action policies be building a diverse student body and increasing segregation amongst students?
Who is Professor Peter Arcidiacono?
Peter Arcidiacono is a professor of economics at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, United States. He received his Ph.D. in economics from the University of California, San Diego, in 1994. His research interests are in the areas of labor economics, education, and applied econometrics.
Arcidiacono has conducted extensive research on the economics of education, including studies on college admissions, the impact of affirmative action policies on college admissions and student outcomes, and the effects of peer influences on academic performance. He is also known for his work on the economics of the labor market, including studies on the effects of minimum wage policies on employment and earnings.
In addition to his academic work, Arcidiacono is a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research and has served as a consultant to the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Labor, and other organizations.
Do Affirmative Action Policies Lead to Cross-Racial Friendships on Campus?
Research has shown that students tend to form friendships with peers who have similar academic backgrounds, interests, and goals. For example, students who are enrolled in the same major or who share similar academic interests are more likely to form friendships than students who are not.
In addition, students' academic backgrounds can also influence their social networks outside of the classroom. For example, students who are involved in extracurricular activities such as clubs or sports teams may form friendships with peers who share their interests, regardless of their academic background.
It is also worth noting that students' academic backgrounds may be related to their socioeconomic status, which can in turn influence their social networks on campus. Research has shown that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be less likely to form friendships with peers from higher socioeconomic backgrounds due to differences in social and cultural capital.
The impact of affirmative action policies on student segregation on campus is a complex issue that has been debated among scholars and policymakers. While some argue that affirmative action policies can lead to greater student segregation on campus, others argue that these policies can help promote diversity and integration.
On one hand, opponents of affirmative action policies argue that these policies can lead to greater segregation on campus by creating separate tracks for students of different races or ethnicities. For example, some argue that affirmative action policies may lead to the creation of separate dormitories, clubs, or organizations for students from underrepresented groups, which could further segregate students on campus.
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Affirmative Action policies were introduced in the 1960s by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. The President recognized Black and Hispanic communities were not well represented in specific sectors. While the federal government did not have direct control over the hiring decisions in private business, it could exert some power in seeing increasing representation with federal contractors.
With now over fifty (50) years of experience, how have Affirmative Action policies shaped the US? What have some of the benefits been and what can other countries learn from America's experience? I invited Professor Harry Holzer of Georgetown University to discuss these questions in more detail. Professor Holzer has spent many decades studying Affirmative Action and its impacts on the labour market.
Who is Professor Harry Holzer?
Professor Harry Holzer is an American economist and public policy expert. He is currently the John LaFarge Jr. SJ Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University, where he also serves as a Senior Fellow at the Center on Education and the Workforce.
Holzer previously served as the Chief Economist for the U.S. Department of Labor, and has held positions at several other academic and policy institutions.
Why Did the Federal Government Pursue Affirmative Action Policies in the 1960s?
The federal government pursued affirmative action policies in the 1960s as a response to the widespread discrimination and segregation that existed in many areas of American life at that time. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in employment, education, and other areas. However, simply outlawing discrimination was not enough to address the deep-seated inequalities that existed in American society.
In order to address the lingering effects of past discrimination and promote greater diversity and inclusion, the federal government began to implement affirmative action policies in areas such as education, employment, and contracting. These policies were designed to ensure that individuals from historically disadvantaged groups, such as African Americans and other minorities, had equal opportunities to succeed and were not held back by systemic discrimination or biases.
Affirmative action was seen as a way to promote greater equality and to address the historical injustices faced by minority groups. It was also seen as a way to promote greater diversity in institutions such as colleges and universities, which had traditionally been dominated by white, middle-class students. While affirmative action policies have been controversial and have faced legal challenges over the years, they continue to be used in many areas of American life as a way to promote greater equality and diversity.
Check out the full article here at: https://openmindspodcast.com
Professor Holzer: https://gufaculty360.georgetown.edu/s/contact/00336000014RcL5AAK/harry-holzer
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DhN4gDAQAoo
As the Freedom Convoy gained momentum in Canada, protesters were facing challenges in their own personal lives. Provinces were engaging in extended lockdown measures that were making less sense Many were finding that coworkers would complain to management if they were attending anti-lockdown protests and demonstrations. My guest, Jenna Quenneville found this out first-hand. Jenna worked at a local hospital, attended an 'End the Lockdown' protest and was later suspended and fired for her position.
Were government measures going too far curtailing individual civil liberties and freedoms? Jenna shares her story.
What were the "End the Lockdown" Protests about in Canada?
The end of lockdown protests in Canada were largely in response to government restrictions put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. These restrictions included measures such as the closure of non-essential businesses, stay-at-home orders, and limits on gatherings. Some individuals and groups opposed these measures, arguing that they were unnecessary and violated their rights and freedoms. The protests aimed to raise awareness about these concerns and push for the reopening of the economy and society.
What was the Impact to Jenna after attending an End the Lockdown Protest?
Jenna felt strongly that the federal government was going too far in the COVID-19 vaccine mandates, lockdowns and social distancing. After attending an End the Lockdown protest, close friends took photos and let Jenna's employer, a hospital at the time, know Jenna was in attendance.
As well, people started coming after Jenna's sister
What attracted Jenna to the Freedom Convoy?
At first, Jenna felt it was 'too good to be true' - the Convoy was echoing the feelings she had towards the federal government and the lockdowns that were being enacted. She felt that freedoms were being infringed upon greatly and felt compelled to do something. Jenna attended the Freedom Convoy's last stop before heading to Ottawa - and made breakfast for protesters. Jenna and her friend found an old school bus and made breakfast out of it for the Convoy.
What has Jenna Learned About this Experience?
The experience of the Freedom Convoy really showcased to Jenna what could be possible with united action when governments go too far in curtailing rights and freedoms. Civil liberties must be protected and Jenna has felt a stronger sense of community and connecting with others who are like-minded. It has not come without a price: posting these ideas online can come with backlash. Now, Jenna feels confident to be OK with both the good and bad from her actions.
Follow Jenna on social media: @thatblondefreedomchick
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
The Freedom Convoy rolled into Ottawa, upset with the federal government's vaccine mandates and COVID-19 restrictions. At first, many Canadians saw the Freedom Convoy as echoing their own frustrations with lockdown measures. Social distancing measures were getting high and Canadians were looking to other countries, particularly the United States, and wondering why our country was still so restrictive.
As the Freedom Convoy entered its first week or so, the mood began shifting with local Ottawa residents. Incessant honking and reports of verbal abuse started coming in. The temperature changed, as federal government leaders, particularly the Prime Minister were unwilling to meet with protesters.
Sarah Davis, Executive Director of Cornerstone Housing for Women experienced the Freedom Convoy's protests on the ground. The Shelter is located in downtown Ottawa and Sarah shares her perspectives on the movement and what can be done going forward.
What is the Cornerstone Housing for Women in Ottawa?
Cornerstone Housing for Women is a non-profit organization in Ottawa, Canada that provides affordable and supportive housing for women who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. They offer a range of services including case management, life skills training, and access to community resources to help women achieve stability and independence. Their goal is to empower women to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness and build a better future for themselves and their families.
What is Sarah Davis' Role at Cornerstone?
Sarah has been supporting vulnerable populations – primarily women that are at risk or have experienced homelessness - for over 15 years. She completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminology at Carleton University and also has a College Diploma in Correctional Work. She has considerable experience working as a front-line staff and has progressively taken on more senior roles with various social justice and social service organizations across Ontario. Sarah is an active board member of the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa (ATEHO). Through ATEHO and other organizations, Sarah has participated in public education and advocacy, from supporting individuals at Federal Hearings to delivering lectures in university classrooms.
Why is it Important for Women Shelters to be Gender-Diverse?
It is important for women's shelters to be gender diverse because it ensures that the shelter is inclusive and accessible to all individuals who identify as women, including transgender and non-binary individuals. Without gender diversity, these individuals may not feel safe or welcome in a shelter that is not specifically designated for them, which can make it difficult for them to access safe and stable housing.
In addition, shelters that are not inclusive of transgender and non-binary individuals may not be equipped to address the specific needs and concerns of these groups. For example, a shelter that is not gender diverse may not have policies and practices in place that ensure the privacy and safety of transgender and non-binary individuals, or may not have staff who are trained to provide appropriate and respectful care.
Gender diversity in women's shelters also promotes equity, it recognizes that everyone should have access to safe and affordable housing, regardless of their gender identity, and helps to break down barriers that prevent marginalized groups from accessing the resources they need.
What were the Impacts of the Freedom Convoy?
Sarah describes the verbal assault staff members were facing by some protesters part of the Freedom Convoy. While masking requirements were still mandatory in some places (or strongly suggested in others), staff were ridicu
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Part of my discussion on community safety was to include voices from government. Community members and organizations have been advocating for specific measures the City should be undertaking. I decided to invite Scott McKean on the Podcast. Scott is Manager in the City of Toronto, responsible for SafeTO, which is a community safety and well-being plan.
Will it incorporate some of the aspects community groups have been advocating for?
What is SafeTO?
SafeTO is a plan implemented by the City of Toronto to address gun violence in the city. It includes a number of measures such as increasing police presence in affected neighborhoods, investing in community-based programs, and working with other levels of government and community organizations to address the root causes of gun violence. The plan also focuses on prevention and early intervention, addressing issues such as poverty, lack of education and job opportunities, and mental health and addiction issues. The goal of the SafeTO plan is to reduce gun violence and improve community safety in Toronto.
What are Some of the Major Investments Introduced by SafeTO?
Some of the major investments that the SafeTO plan is making include:
- Increasing police presence in affected neighborhoods: This includes hiring more police officers and investing in community policing initiatives.
- Investing in community-based programs: This includes funding programs that address issues such as poverty, lack of education and job opportunities, and mental health and addiction issues.
- Addressing the root causes of gun violence: The plan is working with other levels of government and community organizations to address issues such as poverty, lack of education and job opportunities, and mental health and addiction issues.
- Increasing support for victims and families: This includes providing support for victims and families affected by gun violence, and investing in programs that address the long-term impacts of gun violence.
- Investing in technology: This includes investing in technology such as cameras and gunshot detection systems to help prevent and reduce gun violence.
- Supporting public education and awareness campaigns: This includes public education campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of gun violence and the importance of community safety.
- Supporting research, data collection, and evaluation: This includes investing in research to better understand the causes of gun violence, collecting data on gun violence, and evaluating the effectiveness of the SafeTO plan.
Who has the City Invited to Inform SafeTO?
The City of Toronto is inviting a wide range of stakeholders to inform the SafeTO plan. This includes:
- Community members: The City is engaging with community members, including residents of affected neighborhoods, to gather input and feedback on the SafeTO plan.
- Community organizations: The City is working with community organizations, such as youth organizations, to gather input and feedback on the SafeTO plan.
- Service providers: The City is engaging with service providers, such as health care providers, to gather input and feedback on the SafeTO plan.
- Law enforcement: The City is working with law enforcement agencies, including the Toronto Police Service, to gather input and feedback on the SafeTO plan.
- Other levels of government: The City is working with other levels of government, including the federal and provincial governments, to gather input and feedback on the SafeTO plan.
- Researchers and experts: The City is engaging with re
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
The federal government put forward the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan - which called for a 30 percent reduction in fertilizer emissions by 2030. The agricultural sector was taken aback. I chat with Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel, Saskatchewan Farmer, Public Speaker and Advocate.
Episode #171 - Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel
🔗 CONNECT WITH Cherilyn 🐦 Twitter - @CherilynNagel https://www.cherilynjolly-nagel.com
💻 Website: https://fertilizercanada.ca/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - 🐦 Twitter -https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview/emissions-reduction-2030.html 🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :)https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
The federal government put forward the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan - which called for a 30 percent reduction in fertilizer emissions by 2030. The agricultural sector was taken aback. I chat with Karen Proud, President of Fertilizer Canada to learn more.
Episode #xx - Karen Proud, President, Fertilizer Canada
🔗 CONNECT WITH FERTILIZER CANADA 🐦 Twitter - @FertilizerCA https://twitter.com/FertilizerCA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
💻 Website: https://fertilizercanada.ca/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - 🐦 Twitter -https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview/emissions-reduction-2030.html Fertilizer Canada - Emissions Reduction Initiative:https://fertilizercanada.ca/our-focus/stewardship/emissions-reduction-initiative/
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :)https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Visit my NEW Website! https://openmindspodcast.com/
Check out my Instagram/Tik Tok for daily posts: @openmindspodcast
Are Electric Vehicles going to be widely adopted by most all consumers? Despite the environmental benefits, many still have large concerns that could thwart large-scale adoption. Professor Jon Krosnick co-authored Climate Insights 2020 to explore exactly this and the concerns many Americans may have.
🔗 JON KROSNICK Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jon_Krosnick
Stanford University: https://politicalscience.stanford.edu/people/jon-krosnick
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - 🐦 Twitter -https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
Climate Insights 2020 - Surveying American Public Opinion on Climate Change and the Environment - https://media.rff.org/documents/Climate_Insights_2020_Electric_Vehicles.pdf 🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :)https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
With rising inflation and cost of living, what will this mean for Electric Vehicle purchases? States like California are pushing for all new vehicle sales to be either electric or hydrogen powered by 2035. But, with the rising cost of living, will consumers make the switch? I sit down with Tim Burrows who sits on the Board of Directors for EV Society to discuss further.
Episode #164 - Tim Burrows, Board of Directors, EV Society
🔗 CONNECT WITH EV SOCIETY 🐦 Twitter -https://twitter.com/evsociety?lang=en
💻 Websitehttps://evsociety.ca/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
**2021 Deloitte Global Automotive Consumer Study - https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/ca/Documents/consumer-business/ca-gacs-canada-Insights-aoda-en.pdf
Pew Research - Electric Vehicles Get Mixed Reception
https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/06/03/electric-vehicles-get-mixed-reception-from-american-consumers/**
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Is it time we broaden the conversation on Student Loans to include all the costs associated with attending post-secondary? Tim Ulbrich, CEO of Your Financial Pharmacist discusses all the associated costs for post-secondary education that more students should be aware of.
**🔗Tim Ulbrich, CEO of Your Financial Pharmacist - https://yourfinancialpharmacist.com/about/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherBalkaran
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran**
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
It’s Time to Broaden the Conversation About the Student Debt Crisis Beyond Rising Tuition Costs - https://www.ajpe.org/content/81/6/101
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
The cost of going to college and university is growing daily. For students from low income families, student loans are the only way to fund college/university. Professor Willie Elliott of the University of Michigan argues instead, that building assets as early as possible will set youth up for success.
**🔗 Centre on Assets, Education and Incluision: https://aedi.ssw.umich.edu
💻 Professor Willie Elliott: https://ssw.umich.edu/faculty/profiles/tenure-track/willelli**
**CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherBalkaran
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran**
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
The Student Loan Problem in America: It's Not Enough to Say 'Students will Eventually Recover' - https://aedi.ssw.umich.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publication-cd-reports-r2.pdf
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Momentum.org runs many programs targeted to low income families and individuals. These include skills-based training programs, resume workshops and help with finances. The org also has a matched-savings app 'Quber' to help those struggling. While its programming is located in Alberta, the organization has many resources available online below. I chat with Carolyn Davis, Director of Community Engagement to learn more about the organization's work and whether or not the matched savings program leads to a change in behaviour.
🔗 CONNECT WITH MOMENTUM 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/momentumcalgary?lang=en
💻 Website https://momentum.org/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - [Under Construction] 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
"When Traditional Asset Building is Not Enough," Jessica Gordon Nembhard - https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/publication/33121/411735-When-Traditional-Asset-Building-Is-Not-Enough.PDF
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT available for this episode
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
With rising inflation and cost of living, what has this meant for the most marginalized groups in society? If groceries are expensive for the middle class, what about low-income families? Emilly Renaud is the National Coordinator for Canada Without Poverty. The issues affecting low income families and individuals are discussed in this episode.
Episode #162 - Emilly Renaud, National Coordinator, Canada Without Poverty
🔗 CONNECT WITH CANADA WITHOUT POVERTY 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CWP_CSP
💻 Websitehttps://cwp-csp.ca/contact/
334 MacLaren St, Unit 300
Ottawa, Ontario K2P 0M6
Tel: 613-789-0096 or 1-800-810-1076
Email: info @ cwp-csp.ca
**CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherBalkaran
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran**
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
2018 Angus Reid Poll - https://angusreid.org/poverty-in-canada-part-2/
An Introduction to the State of Poverty in Canada - https://www.fraserinstitute.org/sites/default/files/an-introduction-to-the-state-of-poverty-in-canada.pdf
Stephanie Kealton, The Deficit Myth - https://amzn.to/3JXTjKx
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
With rising inflation and cost of living, what has this meant for the most marginalized groups in society? If groceries are expensive for the middle class, what about low-income families? Jyoti Singh is the Executive Director at Nellies in Toronto.
Episode #163 - Jyoti Singh, Executive Director Nellies Toronto
🔗 CONNECT WITH NELLIES 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/nelliesshelter
💻 Websitehttps://www.nellies.org
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherBalkaran
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
2021 Annual Report - https://www.nellies.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/AnnualReport2020-2021.pdf
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Housing prices are going up everywhere, it seems. The City of Toronto recently announced a 46 percent increase to developer fees over the next two years, which will ultimately drive prices up further. Richard Lyall is the President of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON), to discuss what he sees as the impacts of the City's decision.
🔗 Richard Lyall 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/RESCONprez
💻 Website https://rescon.com
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - [Under Construction] 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
City of Toronto - Developer Charges - https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/budget-finances/city-finance/development-charges/
Government of Ontario, Bill 197: https://www.ola.org/sites/default/files/node-files/bill/document/pdf/2020/2020-07/b197ra_e.pdf
Richard Lyall's 2021 Article on the Skilled Labour Shortage - https://www.canadianrealestatemagazine.ca/news/trades-shortage-looms-large-in-construction-industry-334573.aspx
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT available for this episode
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
With rising inflation and cost of living, what has this meant for the most marginalized groups in society? If groceries are expensive for the middle class, what about low-income families? John Clarke spent most all his life working for the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP) and is now a lecturer at York University. John discusses the gargantuan challenges the poor face in this environment of high inflation.
🔗 CONNECT WITH JOHN 🐦 Twitter -https://mobile.twitter.com/johnclke
💻 Website https://ocap.ca/tag/john-clarke/
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🎥 YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherBalkaran
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
John Clarke’s Blog - https://johnclarkeblog.com
John Clarke, “Cost of Living Crisis,” April 2022 - https://johnclarkeblog.com/node/87
Stephanie Kealton, The Deficit Myth - https://amzn.to/3JXTjKx
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT available for this episode
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
Welcome to my new rebrand of the Podcast: Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran!
Why did I decide to rebrand the Podcast? How did I land on 'Open Minds'? And where do I see this Podcast going? Listen now!
CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER 🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CABalkaran
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/openmindspod
💻 Website - Still working on the new one!
👥 Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbalkaran
🎙 ABOUT OPEN MINDS WITH CHRISTOPHER BALKARAN
Imagine if you could explore, with genuine curiosity, the most controversial and divisive topics of our time. The conversations would push you to explore new areas and uncover insightful ‘a-ha’ moments that pique your interest. I’m Christopher, and I have created engaging Podcast discussions since 2018 to do exactly this. I have completed Podcast series on abortion, tobacco control, basic income and more. I invite guests involved in these areas to share with me their opinions. My hope is that through this natural exploration, I can craft a Podcast experience that attempts to build bridges during a time when we need it the most. Join me on the Open Minds with Christopher Balkaran Podcast.
🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE wherever you stream music!
💌 SUBSCRIBE to Curious Mondays - a weekly newsletter from Christopher, which includes thought-provoking questions and ideas guaranteed to spark conversation! https://openminds.substack.com/p/001-welcome-to-the-open-minds-with?r=1ostv9&s=w&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we'd love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show :) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/open-minds-with-christopher-balkaran/id1442624314
👋🏼 GET IN TOUCH You can also Tweet @CABalkaran with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you've learnt from the episodes. Feel free to DM me too!
I sit down with Gordon Bauer to discuss Electric Vehicles and the impact this can have on low-income households. Really fascinating discussion!
Gordon Bauer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordon-bauer-8834b277
Research: "When might low income households benefit from electric vehicles?" - https://theicct.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/EV-equity-feb2021.pdf
Professor Mike Pesko's Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikepesko
About Professor Pesko: https://aysps.gsu.edu/profile/michael-pesko/#
Check out my series on Tobacco Control - https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/tobacco-control-harm-reduction/
Check out my other episodes!
GUN VIOLENCE: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/the-gun-violence-conversation/
ABORTION: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/the-abortion-series/
CLIMATE CHANGE: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/climate-change/
BASIC INCOME: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/basic-income/
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
I sit down with Andy West, for our second conversation on attitudes to Climate Change. Andy's research shows that attitudes are more reliably predicted based less on political leanings, and more on religiosity!
ANDY WEST'S RESEARCH: https://judithcurry.com/2020/04/17/can-religiosity-predict-cultural-climate-beliefs/
MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5JKJC9prqNuvrcR844cLjw/featured
THE STRONG AND FREE PODCAST YOUTUBE CHANNEL:
https://youtu.be/ON9Cldvd2eg
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE? LET ME KNOW
https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋
📹 INSTAGRAM - @strngnfree
TWITTER - @StrongnFreePod
READ MY BLOGS: https://medium.com/strong-and-free
Hi everyone!
Happy New Year! I've uploaded a short podcast explaining where I'm taking Strong and Free next!! Can't wait to share more content with you!
Links:
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/StrongandFreePodcast
Judith Curry - https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/climate-change/
Blogs - https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com
In January, I released my conversation with Judith Curry. To-date, it is the most downloaded and listened to Podcast I've ever produced. This is my follow-up conversation.
Message me at www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com and let me know what you think!
My first conversation with Judith Curry: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/climate-change-a-different-perspective-with-professor-judith-curry/
Judith Curry: https://judithcurry.com
I share my perspectives on the Capital Punishment series and some learnings along the way.
Despite most being heavily divided on capital punishment, it is very challenging finding thoughtful voices supporting death penalty. Josh Marquis, former District Attorney of Clatsop County is a supporter of capital punishment and has written extensively on the topic.
About Joshua Marquis -- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_Marquis
Joshua Marquis Blog -- https://www.coastda.com/
"The Myth of Innocence" - (2005) -- https://scholarlycommons.law.northwestern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=7185&context=jclc
I have mentioned before the importance of reading for this Podcast and life in general. In this new series, I'm going to highlight a book that I've completed that has helped shape my perspective for this and future Podcast episodes.
In my first episode, I discuss the Bhagavad Gita - an ancient story from the Mahabharata. Thousands of years later, this story is still revered:
"I have made the Bhagavad Gita as the source of inspiration and my guide for the purpose of scientific investigation and formation of my theories." - Albert Einstein
The Bhagavad Gita - https://www.amazon.ca/Bhagavad-Gita-Eknath-Easwaran/dp/1586380192/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=Bhagavad&qid=1634217842&sr=8-4
Welcome to my new series on Capital Punishment. Lindsey Vann, Executive Director of Justice360 discusses some of the challenges in representing those convicted of capital sentences in the State of South Carolina.
Justice 360 -- https://justice360sc.org/
About Lindsey Vann -- https://justice360sc.org/all-staff/
My conversation with John Clarke, anti-poverty activist, is on his opposition to a Basic Income system. John raises a very compelling case as to why a Basic Income system is not ideal at addressing the issues poor people are facing.
Thank you John for your willingness to discuss this issue with me!
John Clarke - https://twitter.com/JohnOCAP?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
John Clarke's Writings on Basic Income:
https://johnclarkeblog.com/node/51
https://www.thecanadafiles.com/articles/bi
https://socialistproject.ca/2018/04/basic-income-progressive-cloak-and-neoliberal-dagger/
https://canadiandimension.com/articles/view/defending-the-left-case-against-basic-income
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast YouTube Channel!
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
Tired of watching the nightly news turn into a slugfest?
Me too.
I'm sure you have had those moments that changed or altered your perspective on a topic. It might have been a comment, an article, a book, or a Podcast (shameless plug)! In today's media coverage, it can be challenging to understand different ideas and interpretations when the nightly news allows for only a few minutes at most of actual discussion.
I created the Strong and Free Podcast to explore news topics by gathering multiple perspectives together and allowing people and organizations to discuss their opinions with detail. This allows for a nuanced conversation. It also means putting aside my own bias to explore these to the fullest. It means making all guests feel welcomed to share their opinions safely, without fear that the host will paint them into a corner, or make them sound incoherent. I want this place to be truly safe. I believe everyone, even those I disagree with, deserve to be treated with respect and to be on the Podcast to share their perspective. It also means having a concrete discussion on issues and determining the best way forward.
You might be asking why. And the answer is simple: I believe conversations are how we can shape our future. As long as we restore thoughtful approaches to the biggest issues of our time our conversations will have deep, valuable meaning. And, we enrich our own opinion.
In order to build our stance we must consider the best evidence against it.
My name is Christopher Balkaran. I hope you enjoy this content.
Is there something to be said about our existence on earth and its link with work? What if governments took care of our basic necessities? How would this factor into this purpose? And could a Basic Income system be used as justification by governments to reduce spending on social welfare programs? If the government is providing a basic income for the necessities in life, does that provide them with rationale to remove other social programs? What are the unintended actions of this?
I sit down with Geoff Crocker, Editor of the Basic Income Forum and UBI.org to discuss these. Geoff is an advocate of a Basic Income system, and has written and lectured extensively on the issue.
Links below:
UBI.org
Geoff Crocker, Basic Income and Sovereign Money - https://www.palgrave.com/gp/book/9783030367473#:~:text=Geoff%20Crocker%20edits%20Basic%20Income,in%20reducing%20effective%20aggregate%20demand.
VIEW --- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5JKJC9prqNuvrcR844cLjw
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/ PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
---------
Tired of watching the nightly news turn into a slugfest?
Me too.
I'm sure you have had those moments that changed or altered your perspective on a topic. It might have been a comment, an article, a book, or a Podcast (shameless plug)! In today's media coverage, it can be challenging to understand different ideas and interpretations when the nightly news allows for only a few minutes at most of actual discussion.
I created the Strong and Free Podcast to explore news topics by gathering multiple perspectives together and allowing people and organizations to discuss their opinions with detail. This allows for a nuanced conversation. It also means putting aside my own bias to explore these to the fullest. It means making all guests feel welcomed to share their opinions safely, without fear that the host will paint them into a corner, or make them sound incoherent. I want this place to be truly safe. I believe everyone, even those I disagree with, deserve to be treated with respect and to be on the Podcast to share their perspective. It also means having a concrete discussion on issues and determining the best way forward.
You might be asking why. And the answer is simple: I believe conversations are how we can shape our future. As long as we restore thoughtful approaches to the biggest issues of our time our conversations will have deep, valuable meaning. And, we enrich our own opinion.
In order to build our stance we must consider the best evidence against it.
My name is Christopher Balkaran. I hope you enjoy this content.
I hope you're enjoying my series on Basic Income! It seems many of you enjoy my reflections episode, so I thought to do another! Today I share my reflections on the Canadian election, Basic Income and my recent trip to Ikea.
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/72TIKjiDBvM
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
Most debates and conversations on Basic Income do not include voices of recipients of Basic Income themselves. I wanted to ensure that voice was incorporated in my series on the topic. Jessie Golem was the recipient of Ontario's Basic Income Pilot and has since been an advocate for its continuation. Jessie undertook a photography project with other recipients, entitled, "Humans of Basic Income," which included individuals holding up signs discussing the merits of a Basic Income System. Links below for further details.
Jessie Golem - jessiegolem.com
Humans of Basic Income - https://www.jessiegolem.com/humans-of-basic-income
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/72TIKjiDBvM
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
Critics of a Basic Income System usually point to its cost and question whether not such a program incentivizes people to work. To my surprise, there are many concerns emerging from those that are concerned about our social welfare institutions themselves.
Does Basic Income provide governments the ability to take funds away from other social welfare programs, such as healthcare and education? And, what are the concerns of giving people money and then using those funds in the market?
I recently read an article by Associate Professor Matthew Flisfeder (link below), and was intrigued to learn more. I hope you enjoy this conversation.
Matthew Flisfeder - https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/rhetoric/faculty/matthew-flisfeder.html
Article - "Universal Basic Income is Not the Answer: A Leftist Case for Social Investment", http://uniter.ca/view/universal-basic-income-is-not-the-answer
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast YouTube Channel!
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
Tired of watching the nightly news turn into a slugfest?
Me too.
I'm sure you have had those moments that changed or altered your perspective on a topic. It might have been a comment, an article, a book, or a Podcast (shameless plug)! In today's media coverage, it can be challenging to understand different ideas and interpretations when the nightly news allows for only a few minutes at most of actual discussion.
I created the Strong and Free Podcast to explore news topics by gathering multiple perspectives together and allowing people and organizations to discuss their opinions with detail. This allows for a nuanced conversation. It also means putting aside my own bias to explore these to the fullest. It means making all guests feel welcomed to share their opinions safely, without fear that the host will paint them into a corner, or make them sound incoherent. I want this place to be truly safe. I believe everyone, even those I disagree with, deserve to be treated with respect and to be on the Podcast to share their perspective. It also means having a concrete discussion on issues and determining the best way forward.
You might be asking why. And the answer is simple: I believe conversations are how we can shape our future. As long as we restore thoughtful approaches to the biggest issues of our time our conversations will have deep, valuable meaning. And, we enrich our own opinion.
In order to build our stance we must consider the best evidence against it.
My name is Christopher Balkaran. I hope you enjoy this content.
Hugh Segal, Former Senator and Canadian Political Strategist and was chief of staff to Ontario Premier Bill Davis and later to Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. He helped design the Ontario Basic Income Pilot for Kathleen Wynne's government in 2016 and is an ardent supporter of a Basic Income System.
Research cited:
2018 Angus Reid Poll: https://angusreid.org/poverty-in-canada-part-2/
Poverty Rate Decline: https://ipolitics.ca/2020/02/24/poverty-rate-sees-decline-as-statcan-set-to-move-to-redrawn-poverty-line/
OECD Canada March 2021 Report: https://www.oecd.org/economy/surveys/Canada-2021-OECD-economic-survey-overview.pdf
OECD Study on Basic Income: https://www.oecd.org/els/soc/15_Immervoll_OECD_Basic_Income_Brief.pdf
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast!
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
Tired of watching the nightly news turn into a slugfest?
Me too.
I'm sure you have had those moments that changed or altered your perspective on a topic. It might have been a comment, an article, a book, or a Podcast (shameless plug)! In today's media coverage, it can be challenging to understand different ideas and interpretations when the nightly news allows for only a few minutes at most of actual discussion.
I created the Strong and Free Podcast to explore news topics by gathering multiple perspectives together and allowing people and organizations to discuss their opinions with detail. This allows for a nuanced conversation. It also means putting aside my own bias to explore these to the fullest. It means making all guests feel welcomed to share their opinions safely, without fear that the host will paint them into a corner, or make them sound incoherent. I want this place to be truly safe. I believe everyone, even those I disagree with, deserve to be treated with respect and to be on the Podcast to share their perspective. It also means having a concrete discussion on issues and determining the best way forward.
You might be asking why. And the answer is simple: I believe conversations are how we can shape our future. As long as we restore thoughtful approaches to the biggest issues of our time our conversations will have deep, valuable meaning. And, we enrich our own opinion.
In order to build our stance we must consider the best evidence against it.
My name is Christopher Balkaran. I hope you enjoy this content.
I hope you are enjoying your summer! I share with you a new Podcast, which includes my ramblings on what is happening in Afghanistan, the federal election in Canada and more!
LINKS:
Thomas Barfield - Afghanistan: A Cultural and Political History
Can Religion Address Your Anxiety?
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
I am so thankful to have Joyce Arthur, Executive Director of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada, on for a second time on this Podcast. Joyce has been very open with me answering all my questions!
In this episode, Joyce responds to the issues raised by Jakki Jeffs of the Alliance for Life Ontario - specifically, Joyce responds to the research and other points raised by Jakki. My hope is both of these conversations can help you navigate your opinions on the topic of abortion.
CHECK OUT MY ENTIRE SERIES ON ABORTION -- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/category/the-abortion-series/
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast!
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/72TIKjiDBvM
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
Tired of watching the nightly news turn into a slugfest?
Me too.
I'm sure you have had those moments that changed or altered your perspective on a topic. It might have been a comment, an article, a book, or a Podcast (shameless plug)! In today's media coverage, it can be challenging to understand different ideas and interpretations when the nightly news allows for only a few minutes at most of actual discussion.
I created the Strong and Free Podcast to explore news topics by gathering multiple perspectives together and allowing people and organizations to discuss their opinions with detail. This allows for a nuanced conversation. It also means putting aside my own bias to explore these to the fullest. It means making all guests feel welcomed to share their opinions safely, without fear that the host will paint them into a corner, or make them sound incoherent. I want this place to be truly safe. I believe everyone, even those I disagree with, deserve to be treated with respect and to be on the Podcast to share their perspective. It also means having a concrete discussion on issues and determining the best way forward.
You might be asking why. And the answer is simple: I believe conversations are how we can shape our future. As long as we restore thoughtful approaches to the biggest issues of our time our conversations will have deep, valuable meaning. And, we enrich our own opinion.
In order to build our stance we must consider the best evidence against it.
My name is Christopher Balkaran. I hope you enjoy this content.
Jakki Jeffs, Executive Director of the Alliance for Life of Ontario explains the organization's new research, website and addresses issues of being labeled as spreading misinformation and dangerous content.
This is my second conversation with Jakki. My first conversation, part of my series on Abortion, can be found here: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/the-pro-life-abortion-perspective-a-conversation-with-jakki-jeffs-executive-director-at-alliance-for-life-ontario/
Links discussed in this Podcast:
Alliance for Life Ontario's new website on the Abortion Pill Reversal: https://abortionpillreversal.ca/
New Research Published by the Alliance for Life Ontario: https://allianceforlifeontario.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Abortion-By-Numbers-2021_FINAL_WEB.pdf
Pam Damoff's Comments re: Alliance for Life Ontario: (April 14, 2021 Hansard): https://www.ourcommons.ca/DocumentViewer/en/43-2/house/sitting-80/hansard
"Health Canada deflects complaints about ads for 'abortion-pill reversal'," Tom Blackwell, The National Post, July 7, 2021: https://nationalpost.com/health/health-canada-deflects-complaints-about-ads-for-abortion-pill-reversal
I had the privilege to have a conversation with my longtime friend Edwin Frondozo (@edwin100x) about all the great projects he has going on - most importantly "100x".
I first met Edwin when we were doing Toastmasters together in Toronto. His energy and comfort standing up in front of a group of strangers was remarkable. As I came to knew Edwin, I realized how powerful he truly is. Edwin's a marathon runner, a father, a husband, an entrepreneur, the list goes on. But more than that, Edwin's driven.
I sincerely hope you enjoy this conversation, links below for more on Edwin:
edwin100x.com/links
I chat with Dr. Gan Quan and Omara Dogar from the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union). We discuss why tobacco control is the best policy governments can pursue and what some of the dangers might be with vaping and e-cigarette products.
The International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease or The Union, is a global scientific organization headquartered in Paris with the stated goals to "improve health for people in low- and middle-income Countries". The Union focuses its work in three areas: Tuberculosis, Tobacco Control, and Lung and non-communicable diseases.
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/72TIKjiDBvM
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
I chat with Cliff Douglas, on tobacco control/harm reduction measures and the need for sensible policy on tobacco moving forward.
Cliff Douglas is a long-time expert on a wide range of tobacco-related policy, regulatory and legal issues, ranging from federal regulation of tobacco products and the challenges and potential benefits of e-cigarettes to the widening disparities in the smoking population. As director of the University of Michigan Tobacco Research Network, he leads the Smoke-Free Environments Law Project, a 20-year-old statewide project that provides information, consultation and advice for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, local units of government, tobacco control advocates, and communities regarding evidence-based policies and practices to protect Michigan residents from the harmful effects of tobacco.
Cliff Douglas --- https://sph.umich.edu/faculty-profiles/douglas-clifford.html
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast!
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/paR0sGOzma4
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
**I chat with Samrat Chowdhery, President of the International Network of Nicotine Consumer Organizations (INNCO) about the merits of a harm reduction approach to tobacco.
INNCO -- https://innco.org/
Samrat Chowdhery -- https://innco.org/about-us/**
I talk to Alex Clark, CEO of the Consumer Advocates for Smoke-Free Alternative Association (CASAA). We discuss why harm reduction should be the preferred method of public policy. CASAA is a consumer advocacy nonprofit organization, dedicated to empowering consumers and representing their interests in various legislative, policy-making and rule-making areas.
CASAA -- https://casaa.org/
WATCH --- https://youtu.be/zFM7EeQyfGE
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
I chat with Nancy Loucas, Executive Coordinator of the Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates to discuss the variety of tobacco/cigarette uptake globally and why harm reduction practices are the best policy for governments to pursue.
The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is an alliance between the Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates and their respective organizations in the region. Their mission and aim is to educate, advocate and represent the right of adult alternative nicotine consumers to access and use of products that reduce harm from tobacco use.
Welcome to the Strong and Free Podcast YouTube Channel!
VIEW --- https://youtu.be/ZEVwrrn213o
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
I chat with Professor Brad Rodu, DDS, School of Medicine at the University of Louisville. For twenty-five years Dr. Rodu has published research on tobacco harm reduction, involving the adoption of vastly safer tobacco products by smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit with conventional cessation methods.
Professor Brad Rodu --- https://louisville.edu/medicine/research/cancer/bkrodu01
Professor Rodu’s Blog - Tobacco Truth -- https://rodutobaccotruth.blogspot.com/
VIEW --- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5JKJC9prqNuvrcR844cLjw
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/ PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
Chris Bostic is ASH’s Policy Director and has been working in global tobacco control since 2001 when he attended the negotiations for the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control as a civil society international law expert.
ASH --- https://ash.org/
VIEW --- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5JKJC9prqNuvrcR844cLjw
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
I had a fascinating discussion with Curt Jaimungal and Desh Amila, the creators of a new documentary called "Better Left Unsaid". It is great to see more people concerned with our political polarization. Link below to the documentary.
Better Left Unsaid
Better Left Unsaid is an independent documentary that explores the dangerous tactics of extremism across the Western political landscape. For many, extreme right-wing ideologies are easily recognized by overt racism, ethno- nationalism, white supremacy, and the like. The extreme left, on the other hand, takes on a more philosophically nuanced position, which some argue is no less harmful, but often takes on a more understated form in public discourse. Confronting, impactful and reflective, Better Left Unsaid leads viewers on a nuanced exploration of the West’s past and current political disposition, which is often overlooked in classrooms and the mainstream media alike.
Links
Better Left Unsaid Film - https://betterleftunsaidfilm.com/
https://bit.ly/blu_preorder
Desh Amila's Website - https://deshamila.com/
Curt Jaimungal's Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheoriesofEverything/
Desh Amila is a documentary filmmaker and serial entrepreneur. His first documentary, Islam and the Future of Tolerance featuring Sam Harris and Maajid Nawaz, became the #1 iTunes download worldwide (Documentary Category) during its release in 2018, and can be found on Amazon Prime. In 2011, Amila founded Think Inc., a first of its kind ‘edutainment’ company that tours intellectuals throughout Australia and New Zealand. The company’s debut event was a conference held in Melbourne, featuring speakers such as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, historian of science Michael Shermer, political activist Ayaan Hirsi Ali, and the late socio-political critic Christopher Hitchens. In 2018, Amila sold Think Inc. and launched a new media company, This Is 42.
Born in Trinidad, raised in Toronto, Curt Jaimungal became interested in filmmaking while studying mathematical physics at the University of Toronto, where he founded the largest growing club on campus, the University of Toronto Television. From humble beginnings, he began his first feature film at 26, which focused on mental health issues. I’m Okay, a film about the depression, self-hate, and suicidal ideations that follow the loss of a long- term relationship, had several screenings in Toronto even years after the film’s release. Subsequently, he became interested in philosophy and psychology while starting Toronto’s first film incubator -- indiefilmTO -- where he taught filmmakers how to overcome psychological barriers that hold them back from filmmaking. Observing increasing political extremism, Curt began to suspect there is more to what motivates the extremes than the ostensible nobleness they proclaim, sending him on a journey that has led to Better Left Unsaid.
My second conversation with Rod Giltaca, CEO and ED of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights (CCFR), includes his responses to the psychological effects of gun violence.
CCFR
Civil Advantage
My Podcast with Dr. Joshua Ng-Kamstra, Canadian Doctors for Protection from Guns
Research cited by Dr. Joshua Ng-Kamstra
Lyra McKee is the Co-Executive Director of PACE Society, a peer-driven organization located in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver that provides support, advocacy, and education by, with, and for current and former sex workers of all genders.
PACE Society
I speak to Shae Invidiata, Founder and Executive Director of Free Them to discuss human trafficking and why we should all be concerned with this topic.
Free Them
Kim Pyke discusses her experiences as a sex worker and many of the challenges faced.
Kim featured in the Toronto Star
Stepping Stone NS
Alex MacDonnell is the Executive Director of Stepping Stone, the only non-profit organization in the Maritimes that supports women, men, and transgender persons currently and formerly involved in the sex trade by contributing to their health, safety and well-being.
Stepping Stone NS
Andy West discusses the cultural narrative that is climate change.
Climate Etc.
Andy West's Articles.
Judith A. Curry is an American climatologist and former chair of the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Professor Curry discusses the issues with climate change modelling and what governments should focus on.
Judith Curry
Climate Etc.
LISTEN --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/episodes/
FOLLOW --- https://twitter.com/StrongnFreePod
READ --- https://thestrongandfreepodcast.medium.com/
RATE THIS PODCAST --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/reviews/new/
CONTACT ME --- https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/contact/
PODCAST SETUP
Microphone - https://amzn.to/3dezxub
Amplifier - https://amzn.to/3rv0mQ6
Light - https://amzn.to/3tY6u4X
I sit down with Professor Mark Jaccard to discuss his experiences
The Citizens' Guide to Climate Success (Christopher's book of 2020!)
I sit down with Cauldrick Woods, a Peer Mentor at Amadeusz Toronto to discuss what drew him to a life of crime.
Amadeusz Toronto Annual Report
I sit down with Kim and Tina from Amadeusz Toronto, which is a not-for-profit organization in Toronto, which supports young people who are incarcerated to create positive change in
their lives through access to education, community supports, mentorship, and exceptional care.
Amadeusz Toronto
Look at my Life: Access to Education for the Remand Population in Ontario
Amadeusz 2019 Annual Report
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
I sit down with Dr. Joshua Ng-Kamstra to discuss the Canadian Doctors for Protection from Guns and what the organization is advocating governments do moving forward.
Canadian Doctors for Protection from Guns
I talk to Ken Price from the Danforth Families for Safe Communities on gun violence and what governments need to do moving forward.
The Danforth Families for Safe Communities (DFSC)
The Danforth shooting in Toronto
DFSC's National Call for Gun Ban
I sit down with Amber Wardell, Communications Coordinator of the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses (OAITH) to discuss gun violence as it relates to Intimate Partner Violence.
https://www.oaith.ca/
www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
I speak to Rod Giltaca, CEO and Executive Director of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights.
Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights
Civil Advantage YouTube Channel
The Strong and Free Podcast
After over 30 years in prison, Ricky Atkinson shares his perspectives on growing up with gangs, firearms and provides recommendations on the pathway forward. This includes a multi-pronged approach to reaching youth, including working with former gang leaders and social programs.
More info on Ricky HERE and HERE.
Ricky's autobiography.
www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
I sit down with Louis March, head of the Zero Gun Violence Movement in Toronto to discuss the objectives, aims and what the group wants to see happen from all levels of government.
Zero Gun Violence Movement (ZGVM): http://zerogunviolence-movement.com/
Louis March: https://twitter.com/LouisMarchTO?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
I sit down with Sheldon Clare, the President of the National Firearms Association.
Sheldon Clare - https://twitter.com/sheldon_clare?lang=en
National Firearms Association - https://nfa.ca/
The Strong and Free Podcast - www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com
Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Listen now to my final thoughts on the Abortion debate. After four episodes, each profiling pro-life and pro-choice groups, I've gathered my thoughts and have put them here.
Final Thoughts on Abortion: https://www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com/blog/
The Website: www.thestrongandfreepodcast.com
I sit down with Dr. Doctoroff, Canadian Director of the National Abortion Federation Canada to discuss access to clinics and education on abortion.
https://nafcanada.org/
I sit down with Jakki Jeffs to learn more about the Pro Life movement and what the Alliance for Life Ontario's message is on the abortion debate.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I sit down with Joyce Arthur, Executive Director of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada (ARCC) to discuss her views on Abortion and what the goals of ARCC are.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I sit down with Cam Cote of the Centre for Canadian Bio-Ethical Research (CCBR) to get a better perspective of their Pro-Life stance on abortion.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sean and I talk about having the right mindset in being successful.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I sit down with Sgt. Henry Dyck (@TDotGayCop) to learn about the work the Toronto Police is doing with the LGBTQ2S community.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I chat with Minister Audrey Tang, of the government of Taiwan about Digital Democracy.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I discuss where the Podcast has been in 2020 and where it's headed. And, I'm taking a Summer Break!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I discuss the critical need for community-based policing with Sgt. Jeff Zammit of the Toronto Police. We also discuss the Neighbourhood Community Officer Program in Toronto.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I discuss the City of Toronto's decision to collect race-based and socioeconomic data from those testing positive for COVID-19 with Dr. Vinita Dubey.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I attempt to unpack the nuances of community issues and the challenges police face enforcing the law.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I sit down with Warren Abbey for Part 2 of our conversation from March (link: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/episodes/Youth-Hidden-in-Plain-Sight-Warren-Abbeys-Story-on-Guns--Gangs-and-Violence-ebb1lq) to discuss his time in prison and what changes could be made to provide hope for those in jail.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
What solutions can we build from the death of George Floyd?
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In Episode 5, Heon and I sit down with Dr. Kenton White, Chief Data Scientist at Advanced Symbolics Inc.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, Heon and I discuss the Canada Emergency Relief Benefit (CERB) and contemplate a needs-based idea that relies on technology to deliver government benefits tailored to you.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, Heon and I examine the need for an international body called the World Health Organization.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In Episode 02, Heon and I examine the roles of the Minister of Health, Chief of Public Health and the Prime Minister.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this new series, we examine the federal government's response to COVID-19.
Our first episode examines the political landscape Justin Trudeau finds himself after the October, 2019 election. Three main issues are facing the Liberal Party of Canada:
-
Regionalism
-
Alienation of Staunch Supporters
-
Indigenous Protests (Wet'suwet'en)
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Thank you for being part of this great series! This will mark the end of the Power of Positivity Series!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
What will transition look like for you once the restrictions are lifted?
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Keep perspective of the things that evoke strong emotion for you.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Embrace loss in pursuit of your goals!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Think about your goals and don't be scared to be a novice!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Ensure your goals are adaptive and flexible to the environment we're in!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Choose positivity and creation today, instead of negativity and reaction!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
It's too early to make this a right/left debate!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Choose 3 goals you want to complete today!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Stay positive today everyone and fight your internal worries!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Treat yourself and set some goals to fight the negativity!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Think about failure and think about how you can learn from it in achieving your goals!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Tips to stay positive around negative people and energy! And identify the reasons why you didn't achieve your goals for today!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Today is a perfect day to add to your stock of knowledge and/or state of mind. Listen now!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Today, keep the positivity going and choose what you give life to!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
We can't choose this reality we're in. We can change our mentality!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Think about what you want to tell people you accomplished during the lockdown!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Happy April! Choose positivity, despite the amount of negativity out there. It's your day! Make it amazing!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Visioning, goal setting and fighting lethargy is extremely important during this time.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Identify your Time thiefs / Dragons and build an action plan to fight against them.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I discuss how important it is to identify the things that may be keeping you from your goals!
Instagram: @topherbrownies
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Keep the positive energy going. Journaling is a great way to keep the creativity flowing.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Gillian Smith provides some tips on what types of media to consume and striking the balance between staying informed and reading the news all day.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I know this episode is about maintaining health, but check out my Instagram page where I'll begin selling brownies! @topherbrownies
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
A positive mindset will flatten the curve of COVID-19 in addition to the other measures discussed.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Heon Lee and I analyze nearly 200 media articles over 30 days on the Ontario Teacher's Strike.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Warren Abbey has spent over 11 yrs in prison and since, has written a Creative Writing book called "Honour Thy Brother" and is working to reform youth and help them make better choices in their lives.
https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/02/10/i-didnt-expect-to-live-past-25-the-toronto-man-with-the-most-famous-tattoo-in-canadian-jurisprudence-on-life-after-prison.html
https://warrenabbey.com/
youtu.be/0J-Tfj-zfrA
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Vanessa Lodge works with marginalized communities in the sport and recreation space. We sit down to discuss the impacts sport and recreation can have on young people.
https://www.guelphbasketball.com/
https://www.coachesontario.ca/
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Erin Kelly is President and CEO of Advanced Symbolics Inc,
https://advancedsymbolics.com/
Erin's article in the Globe and Mail:
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/rob-commentary/how-our-company-called-trumps-win/article32843425/
Erin interviewed on TVO's The Agenda:
https://www.tvo.org/video/erin-kelly-gauging-the-emotions-of-canadian-voters https://www.tvo.org/video/erin-kelly-canada-after-the-vote
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Petra Molnar, is Acting Director at the University of Toronto's International Human Rights Program.
https://www.law.utoronto.ca/faculty-staff/staff/petra-molnar
https://citizenlab.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/IHRP-Automated-Systems-Report-Web-V2.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Oliver Lane is a transgender athlete and recent graduate of the University of Guelph. A Rookie of the Year, MVP and Ontario University Athletics Athlete of the Year Oliver’s story is highlighted here:
https://usports.ca/en/sports/field-hockey/f/news/2018/10/1354109896/oliver-lane-guelph-gryphon
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Jacq Hixson-Vulpe is currently a Senior Consultant at the 519 and authored the "Creating Authentic Spaces" document:
https://www.the519.org/education-training/training-resources/our-resources/creating-authentic-spaces
The 519:
https://www.the519.org/
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Jamie Ellerton is Principal at Conaptus, Limited.
https://conaptus.com/team-members
Medium Article on NY Resolutions:
https://medium.com/@strongandfree2018/a-humble-plea-to-set-new-years-resolutions-341e2b93c5b7?source=friends_link&sk=0f6d1694b7f3c0a6575cc347c739ef35
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Listen to Munisha and I discuss how to restore balance in our conversations when it comes to politics. Happy Holidays and wishing you all the best for 2020 and beyond!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Todd Anderson has over 20 years experience in the energy sector - specifically in wind and solar. I sit down with him to discuss the innovative ways industries are reducing their emissions. And, what governments can do to help.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Ann Nguyen sat down with me to discuss her interest in politics and her involvement in the Toronto Youth Cabinet - an organization that directly works with Toronto's City Councillors. Check them out at http://thetyc.ca/
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
For all the coverage of Wexit, surprisingly no one is talking about the Organization's Constitution. In this episode, I sit down with Peter Downing to discuss WEXIT's Constitution, which can be found here:
https://wexitalberta.com/constitution.html
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Gillian Smith is a tireless Volunteer, Consultant and former Progressive Conservative candidate in the 2018 Ontario Provincial Election. She has written an article about her experiences. Link below.
https://thewalrus.ca/what-i-learned-from-losing-the-ontario-election/
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Join me as I discuss #strngnfr's ups and downs over the past year! What have I learned after one year of Podcasting? What can I improve upon? And most importantly - why I believe balanced discourse is more necessary than ever before!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I discuss the 2019 federal election results and proportional representation! As well I examine the Wexit association more closely looking at their constitution. I end the podcast by discussing some of Wexit's demands and how these could potentially be resolved within our curreny Federal system !--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Western alienation is real in Canada. You cannot open a newspaper without reading an article about it. Listen now to Heon and I, as we break down the underpinnings of western alienation that is rooted in our federal system. We explore Canada's federation, beginning with the near-immediate discontent by Provinces towards the federal government shortly after Confederation. What caused this? How did issues of the economy, taxation and the World Wars play a role?
This and subsequent episodes will be very important to continue having a conversation about Western Alienation. Perhaps the most important conversation facing Canadians and Canada today.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In my last episode on the "Canada Votes" series, I wanted to talk to someone who has worked on the inside of a political party. I had the chance to converse with my friend Emily, who's been involved in politics since University, herself becoming the President of her political riding association. I wanted to understand more about the flexibility inside parties, the openness to criticism and what keeps her going even if she disagrees with the leader and certain public policies. Listen to our conversation and let me know what you think. And as always, stay balanced, stay informed!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
So I was a bit late uploading this. But better late than never! Listen to Heon and I discuss the Bloc Quebecois - examining the Party's history, its current platform and the major issues it is fighting for. An interesting aspect of the Bloc is their platform is quite interesting. While the Party is very much focused on fighting for the rights and freedoms of Quebec and Quebecois, the Bloc also pose interesting initiatives that could garner it support from outside Quebec. The Party's very much about fighting for the environment, ensuring big tech companies pay taxes in Canada and increased funding for Quebec artists and musicians. That said, the Bloc also are concerned about Multiculturalism and would like the French language to be a pre-requisite to citizenship in Canada. These and many other issues can alienate the Party from potential supporters both inside and outside Quebec. Listen to Heon and I debate and discuss this very important Party.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Nearly 50 percent of Albertans would support secession from Canada, according to an Angus Reid poll completed in 2019. In #strngnfr's first interview, we sit down with Peter Downing, leader of the Wexit movement out of Alberta to understand what is leading to this sentiment. Has Ottawa purposely disempowered Provinces? Or are the concerns of Alberta a result of our federal system that does not address regional issues appropriately? Listen to my conversation with Peter Downing and learn about some of the issues facing Alberta and Albertans. And as always, stay balanced, stay informed.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Join Heon and I as we discuss the rise in populism in Canada. We also discuss the history and the aspects of populism that are not normally covered in the news today. Let us know your thoughts. Do you think populism is on the rise in Canada?
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
The Peoples Party of Canada (PPC) is perhaps the youngest political party in Canadian federal politics. Many have characterized the Party as being xenophobic and anti-immigrant. Their leader, Maxime Bernier has been vociferous by openly rejecting Canada’s multiculturalism policy. There is however an underlying philosophy that is guiding the Party and its decisions. Join Heon and I as we try to uncover the PPC more. What are their strengths, weaknesses and threats? And why are they resonating with many voters?
We hope you enjoy listening to this podcast. It was very informative for us to research. Let me know what you think!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Our goal at #strngnfr is to explore political topics with a balanced view. Throughout our #elexn43 coverage, we couldn't help but cover Justin Trudeau's brownface-blackface scandal. Join us in hearing our perspectives and what this may have done to the Liberal Party. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
The Green Party of Canada has always been intriguing to me. I didn’t know enough about the Party. Is their platform only about responding to the environment? What about their stance on the economy? Immigration? Taxation? What are the Party’s strengths? Weaknesses? What would a Canada look like under the Green Party? And what is the connection with other Green Parties throughout the world? Join us in our continuing Election coverage as we explore the Green Party in more detail.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In episode three of our coverage of the 2019 Canadian federal election, Heon and I discuss the Conservative Party of Canada's history, philosophy, guiding principles, policy objectives and the biggest weaknesses facing the Party. Tune in now!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In our second instalment leading up to the federal election, the Strong and Free Podcast examines the New Democratic Party (NDP). How was the Party formed? What principles does the Party fight for? What could explain the Party's meteoric rise in the 2011 federal election? And what are the Party's biggest challenges heading into the 2019 election? As always, we try our best to answer these questions providing you with as much information to continue having the conversation. Tune in now and let us know what you think!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In our new series, the Strong and Free Podcast will be looking at each major political party leading up to the October election. First up, the Liberal Party. What could explain Justin Trudeau's rise in 2015? How could the leader of the third party seemingly overnight become the governing party with a majority? What did the past 4 years under Trudeau look like and what can Canadians expect if the Liberals were to win in October? These questions and others will be answered! Tune in now and let us know what you think!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In our final episode on the Canadian Military, we explore the stories of returning soldiers and the types of government supports for returning Military personnel. Specifically, we examine the supports that help individuals transition back to life in Canada. The sense of duty our military has to defend our country and the values we espouse cannot be understated. This series has fundamentally changed our perspectives and we are forever grateful to the brave individuals that sacrifice their careers, livelihoods and wellbeing for the safety and security for all of us.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this week's episode, The Strong and Free Podcast examines four main issues facing veterans:
PTSD;
Homelessness;
Exposure to Chemicals; and
Lump-Sum Disability Payments.
As always, let us know what you think!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, Heon and I examine the perpetual issue of procurement in the Canadian military. What are the reasons behind procuring the best equipment for Canada's military? And why is military procurement always in the news? Listen now to learn more about military procurement in Canada!
Sources used:
Library of Parliament, The Evolution of Defence Procurement in Canada, February 2016: https://lop.parl.ca/sites/PublicWebsite/default/en_CA/ResearchPublications/201609E#a1
Report of the Senate Standing Committee on National Security and Defence, Military Underfunded: The Walk Must Match the Talk, April 2017: https://sencanada.ca/content/sen/committee/421/SECD/reports/DEFENCE_DPR_FINAL_e.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, Heon and I begin to explore the Canadian Military. We ask the tough questions of why the military is not front and centre for many Canadians.
Sources used:
Earnscliffe Strategy Group (2018): Views of the Canadian Armed Forces Tracking Study. http://cdacanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Views-of-the-CF-Exec-Summary.pdf
Current Canadian Operations : https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/operations/military-operations/current-operations/list.html
Liberal Part of Canada Strategy: https://medium.com/r/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.liberal.ca%2Frealchange%2Fstrategic-priorities%2F
http://espritdecorps.ca/defence-platforms-liberal
Strong, Secure and Engaged: http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2017/mdn-dnd/D2-386-2017-eng.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode:
Hating Hate: Policy Implications of Hate Crime Legislation Author(s): Beverly A. McPhail Source: Social Service Review , Vol. 74, No. 4 (December 2000), pp. 635-653 Published by: The University of Chicago Press
Political Tolerance, Racist Speech, and the Influence of Social Networks Author(s): Allison Harell Source: Social Science Quarterly, Vol. 91, №3 (SEPTEMBER 2010), pp. 724–740 Published by: Wiley
The Limits of Tolerance in Diverse Societies: Hate Speech and Political Tolerance Norms Among Youth Author(s): Allison Harell Source: Canadian Journal of Political Science / Revue canadienne de science politique, Vol. 43, №2, Diversity and Democratic Politics (June 2010 juin), pp. 407–432 Published by: Canadian Political Science Association and the Société québécoise de science politique
DIGNITY, HARM, AND HATE SPEECH Author(s): ROBERT MARK SIMPSON Source: Law and Philosophy, Vol. 32, №6 (November 2013), pp. 701–728 Published by: Springer Stable URL: https://www.jstor.org/stable/24572423 Accessed: 22–07–2019 22:25 UTC
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Welcome Heon Lee: Strong and Free's new co-host! In this episode we discuss Heon's background, and what made him decide to join the Strong and Free Podcast.
Encounters with Canada (https://www.ewc-rdc.ca/pub/en)
MP Mark Warawa: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Warawa
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In part two of our series on Identity Politics, Heon and I examine the Gender Gap. We tackle these four areas:
1) A history of the gender gap
2) Implications for today
3) What do current scholars believe 'cause' or contribute to the gender gap?
4) What can govts do to attempt to address this?
Sources used:
Complexities of the Gender Gap Author(s): Susan E. Howell and Christine L. Day Source: The Journal of Politics, Vol. 62, No. 3 (Aug., 2000), pp. 858-874 Published by: The University of Chicago Press
Revisiting the Gender Gap Author(s): James A. Rycik Source: American Secondary Education, Vol. 36, No. 3 (Summer 2008), pp. 98-101 Published by: Dwight Schar College of Education, Ashland University
The Gender Gap Author(s): Karen M. Kaufmann Source: PS: Political Science and Politics, Vol. 39, No. 3 (Jul., 2006), pp. 447-453 Published by: American Political Science Association
Canadian Human Rights Act (1977)
https://www.canlii.org/en/ca/laws/stat/rsc-1985-c-h-6/latest/rsc-1985-c-h-6.html
Percentage of women among university graduates, by field of study (1992, 2008)
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/89-503-x/2010001/article/11542/tbl/tbl009-eng.htm
Statistics Canada—Women in Canada (Unpaid work, household activities)
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/pub/89-503-x/2015001/article/54931-eng.pdf?st=Apzdn-qe
Gender differences in post-secondary STEM programs
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2013001/article/11874-eng.htm
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Identity Politics is a hot topic in today's politics. Listen to Heon and I debate the history of the topic and where the movement can go for the future.
Sources used:
Medium Article:
https://medium.com/strong-and-free/is-the-future-of-identity-politics-doomed-9ca55ef9a1e?source=friends_link&sk=64fc8fa56d10090752c99561a5db2348
Statistics Canada 2011 Report on Women and Education (1990-2009)
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/pub/89-503-x/2010001/article/11542-eng.pdf?st=IyAXyHEm
US Census Bureau — Historical Income
https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/income-poverty/historical-income-people.html
US Law School Performance Article (Link within the article to the particular study currently not available)
https://www.heritage.org/courts/commentary/how-affirmative-action-colleges-hurts-minority-students
NCES — Fall Enrollment in Post-Secondary Institutions (Supplementary Statistics)
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d17/tables/dt17_306.30.asp
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d16/ch_3.asp
Civil Rights Act (1964)
https://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/history/35th/thelaw/civil_rights_act.html
Equal Pay Act (1963)
https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/statutes/epa.cfm
John F. Kennedy's Executive Order — Affirmative Action
https://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/history/35th/thelaw/eo-10925.html
Graduation Rates from 4 Year Post-Secondary Institutions NCES
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/raceindicators/indicator_RED.asp
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Friends, this episode is quite special. Strong and Free's special guest, Heon Lee helps unpack the State of Alabama's ban on abortion, with detailed research on the Bill and implications. You don't want to miss this episode (and sorry for the poor audio quality!).
Sources used:
Bill text
https://www.al.com/news/2019/05/alabama-abortion-ban-passes-read-the-bill.html
Canada's Prostitution Criminal Law Reform Bill-36
https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/rp-pr/other-autre/c36faq/
BBC Alabama women’s opinions on abortion (Video)
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-us-canada-48288978/women-in-alabama-react-to-abortion-ban-bill-passing
Kay Ivey election platform & stance on abortion
https://www.alreporter.com/2018/05/08/kay-ivey-endorsed-by-susan-b-anthony-list/
Polling data on abortion
https://morningconsult.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/190534_crosstabs_POLITICO_RVs_v1_AP-gC2On4zamQ.pdf
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-abortion-poll/support-for-abortion-rights-grows-as-some-us-states-curb-access-reuters-ipsos-poll-idUSKCN1SW0CD
25 of 27 Republicans are white, male legislators in a Republican dominated chamber/Four women against the bill are Democrats
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/may/14/alabama-abortion-ban-white-men-republicans
https://www.businessinsider.com/alabamas-85-male-legislature-passed-most-extreme-abortion-ban-since-roe-v-wade-2019-5
Raising victims of rape and incest
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/in-alabama--where-lawmakers-banned-abortion-for-rape-victims--rapists-parental-rights-are-protected/2019/06/09/6d2aa5de-831b-11e9-933d-7501070ee669_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.da3f7464d75c
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources Used:
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-1444/6/2/451
https://docs.house.gov/meetings/JU/JU10/20171101/106562/HHRG-115-JU10-Wstate-ParkerS-20171101-SD001.pdf
https://www.politifact.com/new-hampshire/statements/2015/oct/05/ben-carson/did-margaret-sanger-believe-african-americans-shou/
https://www.academia.edu/38313840/The_Pro-life_Movement_as_a_Liberal_Social_Movement_of_the_1960s
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Hi everyone - in this episode I discuss a bit of brainstorming on the Strong and Free brand. Take a listen and let me know what you think!
Stay balanced, stay informed!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Listen to my latest podcast on the psychological effects of abortion on women. Sources used:
M. A. Biggs, Ushma D. Upadhyay, Julia R. Steinberg and Diana G. Foster, "Does abortion reduce self-esteem and life satisfaction?" Quality of Life Research, Vol. 23, №9 (November, 2014), pp. 2505–2513 Published by: Springer
Julia R. Steinberg and Lisa Rubin, Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences (2014, 1.1: 239–247), “Psychological Aspects of Contraception, Unintended Pregnancy, and Abortion,"
https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/unintended-pregnancy-united-states
Katrina Kimport, in her piece, “(Mis)Understanding Abortion Regret,” Symbolic Interaction, 2012.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Medium Article:
https://medium.com/strong-and-free/the-abortion-debate-is-being-undermined-part-one-personhood-6a53ca2c1a8?source=friends_link&sk=af23a274e0038f904315ef9360a7b6d5
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
This topic discusses the Anti-vaccination movement noted as one of the top ten threats to health in 2019 by the WHO.
MEDIUM ARTICLE:
https://medium.com/strong-and-free/the-rise-of-anti-vax-abadf947045c?source=friends_link&sk=8c62c07c22f7965d945aa963fb7240df
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Hi Everyone,
Sorry for making my content Ontario-focused the last little while! Lots happening over here.
Medium Article and YouTube link below. Let me know what you think!
MEDIUM ARTICLE:
https://medium.com/strong-and-free/im-tired-of-protesters-getting-it-wrong-c04f283b2e46?source=friends_link&sk=86bde70634dcab84c8a6d8ccd87123c3
YOUTUBE:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bH4MZSgWk4&t=312s
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast:
Liberal Party 2018-19 Education Programs - Other http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/funding/1819/B07_EPO_memo_2018_19_gsn_en.pdf
Education Funding 2018-19 - http://www.opsba.org/SiteCollectionDocuments/2018-2019%20Education%20Funding%20Engagement%20Guide.pdf
2018-19 Ontario Budget - http://budget.ontario.ca/2018/budget2018-en.pdf
2019-20 Ontario Budget - http://budget.ontario.ca/2019/contents.html
Grants for Student Needs 2019-20 - https://efis.fma.csc.gov.on.ca/faab/Memos/B2019/B14_EN.pdf
Grants for Student Needs 2019-20 Projections - http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/funding/1920/GSNProjections2019.pdf
Priorities and Partnership Fund (PPF) - https://efis.fma.csc.gov.on.ca/faab/Memos/B2019/B15_EN.pdf
New YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5JKJC9prqNuvrcR844cLjw?view_as=subscriber
Medium articles - https://medium.com/strong-and-free
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast:
Congressional Research Service, "Fifth-Generation (5G) Telecommunications Technologies: Issues for Congress", United States Government, January 2019: https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R45485
Huawei, "5G Network Architecture: A High Level Perspective," 2016: https://www.huawei.com/minisite/hwmbbf16/insights/5G-Nework-Architecture-Whitepaper-en.pdf
Kadri Kaska, Henrik Beckvard and Tomáš Minárik, "Huawei, 5G and China as a Security Threat," NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence, 2019: https://ccdcoe.org/uploads/2019/03/CCDCOE-Huawei-2018-03-28-FINAL.pdf
NGMN, "NGMN 5G White Paper," February 17, 2015: https://www.ngmn.org/fileadmin/ngmn/content/images/news/ngmn_news/NGMN_5G_White_Paper_V1_0.pdf
GSMA Intelligence,"ANALYSIS Understanding 5G: Perspectives on future technological advancements in mobile," December 2014: https://www.gsmaintelligence.com/research/?file=141208-5g.pdf&download
GSA.Com, "The Road to 5G: Drivers, Applications, Requirements and Technical Development," 2015: https://www.huawei.com/minisite/5g/img/GSA_the_Road_to_5G.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I provide some insights on Confirmation Bias!
1) Present political issues online that invites conversations; not shuts them down.
2) Think about the sources used for the articles you post
3) Look at the comments, likes and engagement. Are people engaging with your content meaningfully, or at all?
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I explore the Province of Quebec's ban on religious symbols for certain public servants. Sources used in this podcast include the following:
Marie McAndrew and Mahsa Bakhsaei, "The difficult integration of Muslims into Québec since 9/11: International or local dynamics?" International Journal, Vol. 67, No. 4, (Autumn 2012), pp. 931-949
Mereille le Breton, "Laïcité in the French Public School System : an exception française?" Paroles gelées, 23(1), 2007: 1-27.
Raphael Liogier, "Laïcité on the Edge in France: Between the Theory of Church-State Separation and the Praxis of State-Church Confusion," Macquarie Law Journal 2009, Vol 9: 25-45.
Lori G. Beaman, "Battles over Symbols: The "Religion" of the Minority Versus the "Culture" of the Majority," Journal of Law and Religion, 28.1, 2013. pp. 67-104.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode, I explore political sniping in our comments online and provide some tips on how to avoid it. Remember: we want to be conversation starters / continuers (is that a word?) NOT conversation enders!
Let me know your thoughts and feedback!
Twitter: StrongnFreePod
Instagram: strngnfree
Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast
Tumblr: strongandfreecad
Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast:
Donna Feir and Robert Hancock’s “A Guide to Reconciliation for Quantitative Social Scientists,"
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/a-history-of-residential-schools-in-canada-1.702280
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/government-apology-to-former-students-of-indian-residential-schools
http://nctr.ca/assets/reports/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf
Interesting reading:
https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/up-ghost-river-a-chiefs/9780307399885-item.html
https://www.amazon.ca/Inconvenient-Indian-Curious-Account-America/dp/0385664222/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=230007511081&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9061009&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t2&hvqmt=e&hvrand=9662292352870817750&hvtargid=aud-667734419496%3Akwd-299906770962&keywords=inconvenient+indian&qid=1554034743&s=gateway&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.ca/Seven-Fallen-Feathers-Racism-Northern/dp/1487002262/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3/145-4239602-0771615?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1487002262&pd_rd_r=32ea03c4-53af-11e9-8a77-f188713467c0&pd_rd_w=iadxH&pd_rd_wg=tzcZT&pf_rd_p=a62e2918-d998-4bbb-8337-35aac776e851&pf_rd_r=ZKHXBA6GXNAAAH7Z2JDK&psc=1&refRID=ZKHXBA6GXNAAAH7Z2JDK
https://www.amazon.ca/Indian-Horse-Richard-Wagamese-ebook/dp/B007HB5UXC/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=richard+wagamese&qid=1554034813&s=books&sr=1-7
Twitter: StrongnFreePod
Instagram: strngnfree
Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast
Tumblr: strongandfreecad
Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
I’m excited to share with you a new podcast series (surprise!): “Before You Reply Online”! We’ve all been there: someone posts something on our social media feeds that we absolutely disagree with: maybe it’s just a difference of opinion - or maybe it’s something so deeply upsetting to us, we can’t even fathom to look! So what do we do? We reply! And looking back, it might not have been the most...thoughtful reply ;).
This series will be about giving you some tips, tools and tricks through trial and error that I am trying to employ to prevent the inevitable ‘flame war’ from happening. Using my own experience, I'll try to guide you through the mental steps necessary before hitting that reply button.
Don’t flame people, kids. Let’s keep this respectful! And as always, stay balanced, stay informed!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode:
https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/08/09/muslims-and-islam-key-findings-in-the-u-s-and-around-the-world/
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/daily-quotidien/181129/dq181129a-eng.pdf?st=y6eEUKfd
Defining and Researching Islamophobia Author(s): Erik Bleich Source: Review of Middle East Studies, Vol. 46, No. 2 (Winter 2012), pp. 182. Published by: Middle East Studies Association of North America (MESA)
Islamophobia or Islamophobias: Towards Developing A Process Model Author(s): ZAFAR IQBAL Source: Islamic Studies, Vol. 49, No. 1 (Spring 2010), pp. 96 Published by: Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University, Islamabad
The Long History of Islam as a Collective “Other” of the West and the Rise of Islamophobia in the U.S. after Trump Author(s): LÜTFİ SUNAR Source: Insight Turkey , Vol. 19, No. 3, TRUMP'S AMERICA CHANGES, CHALLENGES EXPECTATIONS AND UNCERTAINTIES (Summer 2017),
Erik Bleich, “What is Islamophobia and how much is there? Theorizing and Measuring an Emerging Comparative Concept,” American Behavioral Scientist, 55(12), 2011
Ideology, identity, and law in the production of Islamophobia Author(s): Cyra Akila Choudhury Source: Dialectical Anthropology, Vol. 39, No. 1 (March 2015)
Shariah and Citizenship—How Islamophobia Is Creating a Second-Class Citizenry in America Author(s): Yaser Ali Source: California Law Review, Vol. 100, No. 4 (August 2012)
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode I look at the rhetoric surrounding the immigration debate in the US, and examine how human perception may shape our discourse - for the worse.
Let me know what you think!
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In the final instalment of the SNC-Lavalin mini-series, I examine Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs). What is missing is a real understanding of what DPAs are and its effects on the Criminal Code.
Sources used include the following:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/snc-lavalin-trudeau-bribery-fraud-wilson-raybould-1.5020498
https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/ci-if/ar-cw/documents/rapport-report-eng.pdf
Justifications and Purposes of Negotiated Justice for Corporate Offenders: Deferred and Non-Prosecution Agreements in the UK and US systems of Criminal Justice Federico Mazzacuva, 2014, Journal of Criminal Law: 249.
The Effect of Deferred and Non-Prosecution Agreements on Corporate Governance: Evidence from 1993-2013 Author(s): Wulf A. Kaal and Timothy A. Lacine Source: The Business Lawyer, Vol. 70, No. 1 (Winter 2014–2015), pp. 63 Published by: American Bar Association
Justice department's use of DPAs causes backlash Jaclyn Jaeger Compliance Week. 10.110 (Mar. 2013): p32+. Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2013 Wilmington Compliance Week, Inc https://www.complianceweek.com
What Happens to a Prosecution Deferred? Judicial Oversight of Corporate Deferred Prosecution Agreements Author(s): Benjamin M. Greenblum Source: Columbia Law Review, Vol. 105, No. 6 (Oct., 2005), pp. 1868. Published by: Columbia Law Review Association, Inc.
DOJ's Use of DPAs in Healthcare, Kathleen M. Boozang, and Simone Handler-Hutchison, American Journal of Law and Medicine, 2009, 89-124.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In Part 2 of the Mini-Series on SNC-Lavalin, I examine the legislative environment the company, as a multi-national finds itself in. I examine the Corrupt Foreign Public Officials Act (CFPOA) and its limitations. Sources used in this podcast include the following:
https://dspace.library.uvic.ca/bitstream/handle/1828/9253/Ch.%2001_April2018_web.pdf?sequence=2&isAllowed=y
https://mcmillan.ca/Files/178841_Indiana%20International%20and%20Comparative%20Law%20Review%282%29.pdf
https://www.eba-net.org/assets/1/6/18-193-Kaiser.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Listen now on why public governance is so critical to major infrastructure projects!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Tired of all the information about SNC-Lavalin? Listen to Part 1 of a small mini-series on SNC-Lavalin! This first episode will focus on public governance and procurement. Sources used in this podcast include the following:https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/polarisinstitute/pages/29/attachments/original/1420757484/SNC-Lavalin_E.pdf?1420757484http://www.snclavalin.com/en/about-us/http://www.oic-ci.gc.ca/eng/rapport-annuel-annual-report_2016-2017_4.aspxhttps://business.financialpost.com/news/rcmp-charges-snc-lavalin-with-fraud-and-corruption-linked-to-libyan-projectshttp://www.snclavalin.com/en/a-history-of-value-creationhttps://www.cbc.ca/news/business/a-brief-history-of-snc-lavalin-1.1154986https://sites.snclavalin.com/annualreport2017/en/financial-highlightshttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877705811013191https://munkschool.utoronto.ca/imfg/uploads/334/imfg_perspectives_no11_costoverruns_matti_siemiatycki.pdfhttps://segm.gr/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Public-procurement-study_EN.pdfG_P.pdf--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Twitter: StrongnFreeCAD
Instagram: strngnfree
Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast
Tumblr: strongandfreecad
Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com
Sources used in this podcast include the following:
TransMountain ULC, Project Description for the Proposed Trans Mountain Expansion Project, May 2013: https://www.burnaby.ca/Assets/TMEP/Project+Description+for+the+TMEP.pdf
Sean Kheraj, "Historical Background Report: Trans Mountain Pipeline, 1947-2013," York University: 2014. https://vancouver.ca/images/web/pipeline/Sean-Kheraj-history-of-TMP.pdf
The National Energy Board, National Energy Board Report: The Trans Mountain Expansion Project, May 2016:
https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/documents/p80061/114562E.pdf
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, 2018 Crude Oil Forecast: Markets and Transportation, 2018: https://www.capp.ca/publications-and-statistics/crude-oil-forecast
Dmitry Zhdannikov, "OPEC raises U.S. oil supply outlook, sees lower demand for own crude," Reuters, September 23, 2018: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-oil-opec-outlook/opec-raises-u-s-oil-supply-outlook-sees-lower-demand-for-own-crude-idUSKCN1M30LZ
Veracity Plus Consulting, Why Canada Needs New Pipeline Capacity to Tidewater, July 2016
https://www.cepa.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Why-Canada-Still-Needs-New-Pipeline-Capacity-to-Tidewaterr.pdf
Government of Canada, "Canada's Pipeline Safety System," July 25, 2016:
https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/infrastructure/18858
Thomas Gunton et. al, Public Interest Evaluation of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, Simon Fraser University, May 2015:
http://rem-main.rem.sfu.ca/papers/gunton/km_cba_may26_final.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Twitter: StrongnFreeCAD
Instagram: strngnfree
Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast
Tumblr: strongandfreecad
Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com
In the third episode of Food for Thought, I explore why we are so quick to judge a topic after reading a bullet point about it - as was the case with the Minimum Wage legislation in Ontario.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
In this episode Strong and Free looks at the minimum wage debate in Ontario, by comparing Bill 148 introduced by the Ontario Liberal Party in 2017, and Bill 47 introduced by the Progressive Conservative Party in 2018.
Sources used:
https://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2018/09/27/fords-move-to-flatline-minimum-wage-is-bad-for-workers-and-ontario.html
https://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2018/10/24/ontario-is-taking-a-big-step-back-by-freezing-minimum-wage.html
https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/11/government-for-the-people-making-ontario-open-for-business.html
https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/decentworknow/pages/253/attachments/original/1513104917/Report_a_Higher_Standard_CCPA_file.pdf?1513104917
https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/decentworknow/pages/252/attachments/original/1513104846/Report_the_Precarity_Penalty_PEPSO_file.pdf?1513104846
https://www.fraserinstitute.org/sites/default/files/increasing-the-minimum-wage-in-ontario.pdf
https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2018/11/government-for-the-people-making-ontario-open-for-business.html
https://www.cpisandiego.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Economic_Impacts_of_MW_Increases_6-3-16.pdf
https://www.policyalternatives.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/publications/BC%20Office/2017/04/ccpa_bc_living_wage_%20update%202017%20FINAL%20.pdf
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Twitter: StrongnFreeCAD Instagram: strngnfree Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast Tumblr: strongandfreecad Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com In the second episode of Food for Thought, I explore the need for evidence-based policy decisions, which should translate into evidence-based protests - especially considering the recent changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Twitter: StrongnFreeCAD
Instagram: strngnfree
Facebook/LinkedIn: Strong and Free Podcast
Email: strongandfree2018@gmail.com
Sources used in this podcast:
Office of the Parliamentary Budget Officer, “Post Secondary Education in Canada,” Federal Spending on Post-Secondary Education, May 5 2016: 7. http://www.pbo-dpb.gc.ca/web/default/files/Documents/Reports/2016/PSE/PSE_EN.pdf
Gerard Walsh, “The Cost of Credentials: The Shifting Burden of Post-Secondary Tuition in Canada,” Royal Bank of Canada, June 2018: 2. http://www.rbc.com/economics/economic-reports/pdf/other-reports/Tuition_June2018.pdf
Canadian Federation of Students, “An Overview of Tuition Fees in Canada,” July 2015: http://dev.cfswpnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/2015/07/Fact-Sheet-fees-2013-Nov-En.pdf
Canadian Federation of Students, “Funding for Post-Secondary Education,” 2013: http://dev.cfswpnetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/2015/07/Fact-Sheet-Funding-2013-11-En.pdf
Office of the Auditor General, “Ontario Student Assistance Program,” Chapter 3. 2018: http://www.auditor.on.ca/en/content/annualreports/arreports/en18/v1_310en18.pdf
OCUFA, “Reckless government announcement threatens education quality and students’ rights,” January 17, 2019: https://ocufa.on.ca/press-releases/reckless-government-announcement-threatens-education-quality-and-students-rights/
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Welcome to a new series presented by Strong and Free: Food For Thought (FFT). Questions will be posed about how the government can be better. In FFT's first episode - why can't more government services happen online?--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast: David A. Green and Christopher Worswick, “Canadian Economics Research on Immigration Through the Lens of Theories of Justice,” University of British Columbia, 2017: 4. https://econ2017.sites.olt.ubc.ca/files/2018/01/GreenPaper_CJE-Aug2-2017-2.pdf Paula Simons, “On point: Fifty years ago, Canada changed its immigration rules and in doing so changed the face of this country,” Edmonton Journal, June 29, 2017: https://edmontonjournal.com/news/insight/on-point-fifty-years-ago-canada-changed-its-immigration-rules-and-in-doing-so-changed-the-face-of-this-country Author unknown. “Points-based Immigration Systems: Canada”, Library of Congress, June 9, 2015: https://www.loc.gov/law/help/points-based-immigration/canada.php Vibha Kaushik and Julie Drolet, “Settlement and Integration Needs of Skilled Immigrants in Canada,” MDPI Social Sciences, 2018, 3. Jay Makarenko, “Immigration Policy in Canada: History, Administration and Debates,” August 12, 2010: https://www.mapleleafweb.com/features/immigration-policy-canada-history-administration-and-debates.html Daniel Hiebert, “What’s So Special About Canada: Understanding the Resilience of Immigration and Multiculturalism,” Transatlantic Council on Migration, June 2016: 4. Author unknown, “70 million children get no education, says report,” The Guardian, 2010: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2010/sep/20/70m-get-no-education James Bissett, “Immigration policy is out of control and needs an overhaul,” Ottawa Citizen, November 20, 2017: https://ottawacitizen.com/opinion/columnists/bissett-immigration-policy-is-out-of-control-and-needs-an-overhaul Jason Markusoff, “Canada’s failing refugee system is leaving thousands in limbo,” Maclean’s Magazine, January 10, 2018: https://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/canadas-refugee-system-is-in-chaos/ Sigal Samuel, “‘There’s a Perception That Canada Is Being Invaded’,” The Atlantic, May 26, 2018: https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/05/theres-a-perception-that-canada-is-being-invaded/561032/--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode: Tracey L. Meares, “The Law and Social Science of Stop and Frisk,” Annual Review of Law and Social Science, 10(1), November 2014: 338. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268224149_The_Law_and_Social_Science_of_Stop_and_Frisk CBC News, “The Skin We’re In,” Date unknown: https://www.cbc.ca/firsthand/m_features/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-carding Statistics Canada, “Homicide in Canada, 2017,” The Daily, November 21, 2018: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/181121/dq181121a-eng.htm?indid=3435-1&indgeo=0 US Department of Justice, “Stop and Frisk: Balancing Crime Control with Community Relations,” Urban Institute, 2015: 15. https://ric-zai-inc.com/Publications/cops-p306-pub.pdf Jamaican Canadian Association, “The Independent Street Checks Review,” February 22, 2018: 13-14. https://streetchecksreview.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Toronto-February-22-2018.pdf Anthony N. Doob and Rosemary Gartner, “Understanding the Impact of Police Stops,” A Report for the Toronto Police Board, January 17, 2017: A6. http://criminology.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/DoobGartnerPoliceStopsReport-17Jan2017r.pdf Justice Michael Tulloch, Report of the Independent Street Checks Review, Government of Ontario, 2018: http://www.mcscs.jus.gov.on.ca/english/Policing/StreetChecks/ReportIndependentStreetChecksReview2018.html--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode: Evelyn L. Forget, “The Case for Basic Income in Canada,” University of Manitoba, 2012. David E. Thigpen, “Universal Income: What is it and is it Right for the US?” Roosevelt Institute, October 2016. David Macdonald, “A Policymaker’s Guide to Basic Income,” Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, October 2016. https://www.policyalternatives.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/publications/National%20Office/2016/10/Policymakers_Guide_to_Basic_Income.pdf John Kay, “The Basics of Basic Income,” ZBW – Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, date unknown. https://www.ceps.eu/system/files/IEForum22017_1.pdf Ryan Meili and Danielle Martin, “The Health Case for Basic Income,” in Basic Income: Rethinking Social Policy, Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 2016. https://www.policyalternatives.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/publications/National%20Office%2C%20Ontario%20Office/2016/10/CCPA%20ON%20Basic%20Income_FINAL.pdf Kela FPA, “Platform for Basic Income Experiment,” From Idea to Experiment: Report on Universal Basic Income Experiment in Finland, 2015. https://basicincome.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/KELA_Preliminary_Report_UBI_Pilots.pdf Homeless Hub, “Homelessness and the Lack of Affordable Housing: What is the link?” The State of Homelessness in Canada, 2014. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Happy New Year!
Thank you for everyone tuning into Strong and Free. There are some major plans for 2019. It's going to be great! Tune into hear what I am thinking for the year ahead!
As always, stay #strgnfr
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast: Armina Ligaya, “Cannabis legalization named top Canadian business news story of 2018,” Global News, December 16, 2018: https://globalnews.ca/news/4767649/cannabis-legalization-business-canadian-press/ Vanmala Subramaniam, “Canadians still split on cannabis legalization, Forum Research Poll finds,” Financial Post, October 17, 2018: https://business.financialpost.com/cannabis/canadians-still-split-on-cannabis-legalization-forum-research-poll-finds Mohammad Hajizadeh, “Legalizing and Regulating Marijuana in Canada: Review of Potential Economic, Social, and Health Impacts,” International Journal of Health Policy Management, 2016: 454. http://www.ijhpm.com/article_3208_35275c05312a123630205db0eae53265.pdf Deloitte, “A society in transition, an industry ready to bloom 2018 cannabis report,” 2018: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/ca/Documents/consulting/ca-cannabis-2018-report-en.PDF Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction, “Cannabis,” Canadian Drug Summary, June 2018, 5-7: http://www.ccsa.ca/Resource%20Library/CCSA-Canadian-Drug-Summary-Cannabis-2018-en.pdf B.C. Representative for Children and Youth Submission, “B.C. Cannabis Regulation Engagement,” Government of BC, 2017: https://rcybc.ca/sites/default/files/documents/pdf/reports_publications/rcy_submission_re_cannabis_engagement.pdf Government of Canada, “Legalizing and Regulating Cannabis: The Facts,” 2018: https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/hc-sc/documents/services/campaigns/27-16-1808-factsheet-the-facts-2018-en.pdf Juliet Akhibe et. al, “The Public Health Implications of the Legalization of Recreational Cannabis,” Ontario Public Health Association, 2017: 16-17. http://www.opha.on.ca/getmedia/67c3c2f1-2c69-4f0a-963c-2e520e9b38a7/The-Public-Health-Implications-of-the-Legalization-of-Recreational-Cannabis_1.pdf.aspx?ext=.pdf Marco Leyton, “Legalizing Marijuana,” Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, 2016: 75. http://jpn.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/41-2-75.pdf Michael Broughton, “The Prohibition of Marijuana,” University of Manitoba, 2016: 6. https://umanitoba.ca/centres/mipr/media/1._Prohibition_of_Marijuana_Broughton.pdf --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this podcast: Statista, “Breakdown of BMW Group's worldwide automobile sales in FY 2017, by region,” 2017: https://www.statista.com/statistics/267252/key-automobile-markets-of-bmw-group/ Marianne Schneider-Petsinger, “Trade Policy Under President Trump: Implications for the US and the World,” Chatham House, November, 2017: https://www.chathamhouse.org/sites/default/files/publications/research/2017-11-03-trade-policy-trump-schneider-petsinger-final.pdf. Congressional Research Service, “Proposed U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Trade Agreement,” In Focus, November 30, 2018: https://fas.org/sgp/crs/row/IF10997.pdf Wilson Center, “Infographic | USMCA: Rules of Origin and Origin Procedures,” Wilson Center: Canada Institute, November 30, 2018: https://www.wilsoncenter.org/article/infographic-usmca-rules-origin-and-origin-procedures Heather Gies, “NAFTA out, USMCA in: What’s in the Canada, Mexico, US trade deal?,” University of Toronto, October 1, 2018: 2. https://www.economics.utoronto.ca/gindart/2018-10-01%20-%20NAFTA%20out,%20USMCA%20in.pdf Royal Bank of Canada, “The USMCA: Manageable Concessions, Less Uncertainty,” RBC Economic Research, October 1, 2018: http://www.rbc.com/economics/economic-reports/pdf/other-reports/USMCA_2018.pdf Kelsey Johnson, “Dairy 101: The Canada-U.S. milk spat explained,” iPolitics, April 22, 2017: https://ipolitics.ca/2017/04/22/dairy-101-the-canada-u-s-milk-spat-explained/ Scott Vaughn, “NAFTA’s Environmental Record: History, outcomes, impacts and options,” International Institute for Sustainable Development, June 2017: 7. https://www.iisd.org/sites/default/files/publications/nafta-environmental-record-commentary.pdf Mary E Burfisher et. al, “The Impact of NAFTA on the United States,” Journal of Economic Perspectives, 15.1, 2001: 128. O’Leary, C. J., R. W. Eberts and B. M. Pittelko (2012), “Effects of NAFTA on US Employment and Policy Responses”, OECD Trade Policy Working Papers, No. 131, OECD Publishing. http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/5k9ffbqlvk0r-en, 8. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode: Thieb Peterson, “Globalization Report 2018: What about the NAFTA Countries?” Global Economic Dynamics Blog, June 13, 2018: https://ged-project.de/ged-blog/improving-public-understanding-of-economic-globalisation/globalization-report-2018-what-about-the-nafta-countries/ Bruce Anderson and David Coletto, “Most Canadians would vote for the USMCA deal,” Abacus Data, October 16, 2018: http://abacusdata.ca/most-canadians-would-vote-for-the-usmca-deal/ Financial Post, “Barely a third of Canadians happy with new North American trade deal, poll suggests,” October 23, 2018: https://business.financialpost.com/news/barely-a-third-of-canadians-happy-with-new-north-american-trade-deal-poll-suggests Jolanta Drozdz, Algirdas Miškinis, “Benefits and Threats of Free Trade,” Publishing House of Wrocław University of Economics, 2011: 41: http://www.dbc.wroc.pl/Content/20819/Drozd_Miskinis_Benefits_and_threats_of_free.pdf Government of Canada, “Minerals and the economy,” Natural Resources Canada, August 8, 2018: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mining-materials/facts/minerals-economy/20529#production Government of Canada, “Canadian Mining Assets,” Natural Resources Canada, February 2018: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mining-materials/publications/19323 Ian Fergusson, “The Trade and Investment Relationship,” United States-Canada Trade and Economic Relationship: Prospects and Challenges, September 14, 2011: 3. https://fas.org/sgp/crs/row/RL33087.pdf Dr. Veena Jha et. al, “Literature Review,” Renegotiating NAFTA: Pros and Cons for Canada and Mexico, iisd.org, September 2017: https://www.iisd.org/sites/default/files/publications/renegotiating-nafta-pros-cons-canada-mexico.pdf--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Sources used in this episode:American Psychological Association, “Managing Stress Related to Political Change,” apa.org, 2017: https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/stress-political-change.aspxMythili Sampathkumar, “Thanksgiving: Most Americans want to avoid discussing politics at dinner, poll finds,” Independent, 2018: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/thanksgiving-dinner-politics-discussion-family-how-to-avoid-us-poll-midterms-a8645821.htmlRishab Nithyanand et. al, “Online Political Discourse in the Trump Era,” arxiv.org, 2017: 5. https://arxiv.org/pdf/1711.05303.pdfRobert McChesney, “Media Policies and Media Reform: Technology and the Internet,” The Problem of the Media: US Communication Politics in the 21st Century, 214.Andrea Leskes, “A Plea for Civil Discourse: Needed, the Academy’s Leadership,” Association of American Colleges & Universities, 2014: https://www.aacu.org/publications-research/periodicals/plea-civil-discourse-needed-academys-leadership--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
This episode will focus on the carbon pricing system being proposed in Canada.Sources used:Nicholas Rivers, “The Case for a Carbon Tax in Canada,” Canada 2020, November 2014.Justin Worland, “How the Recession Accidentally Helped the Planet,” Time, July 22, 2015: http://time.com/3966553/recession-emissions-decline/Marc Jaccard et. Al, “Is Win-Win Possible? Can Canada’s Government Achieve its Paris Commitment…and get re-elected? “ Simon Fraser University, September 2016.Government of Canada, Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, 2016. http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2017/eccc/En4-294-2016-eng.pdfGovernment of Canada, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Economic Sector,” June 6, 2018: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-indicators/greenhouse-gas-emissions.htmlJesse Good, Carbon Pricing Policy in Canada, February 26, 2018, https://lop.parl.ca/Content/LOP/ResearchPublications/2018-07-e.pdfRizwan Khan and Burgundy Dunn, “The Federal Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act and its Provincial Opposition,” Mondaq, October 2018: http://www.mondaq.com/canada/x/743136/Clean+Air+Pollution/The+Federal+Greenhouse+Gas+Pollution+Pricing+Act+and+its+Provincial+OppositionJohn Paul Tasker, “Trudeau promises rebates as Ottawa moves to levy carbon tax on provinces outside the climate plan,” CBC News, October 23, 2018: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/tasker-carbon-tax-plan-trudeau-1.4874258Government of Saskatchewan, Prairie Resilience: A Made-in-Saskatchewan Climate Change Strategy, December 2017: http://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/environmental-protection-and-sustainability/climate-change-policyGovernment of Manitoba, A Made-in-Manitoba Climate and Green Plan, 2017: https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/climatechange/climategreenplandiscussionpaper.pdfGovernment of Canada, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Province,” Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators: Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2017: 12. http://www.ec.gc.ca/indicateurs-indicators/18F3BB9C-43A1-491E-9835-76C8DB9DDFA3/GHGEmissions_EN.pdfRoyal Bank of Canada, “Carbon Levies Poised to Become Big Money for Provinces,” RBC Economics Research, October 2017.Joseph Aldy and Robert Stavins, “The Promise and Problems of Pricing Carbon: Theory and Experience,” Journal of Environment & Development, 2012.Nelson Bennett, “Don’t fixate on carbon pricing: Mark Jaccard,” biv.com, September 21, 2016: https://biv.com/article/2016/09/dont-fixate-carbon-pricing-mark-jaccard.Ross McKitrick, “Canada’s phony debate about carbon taxes,” Fraser Institute, February 23, 2018: https://www.fraserinstitute.org/article/canadas-phony-debate-about-carbon-taxesJonathan Ramseur, “US Carbon Dioxide Emissions Trends and Projections: Role of Clean Power Plan and Other Factors,” Congressional Research Service, May 31, 2017: https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R44451.pdf--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support
Welcome to Strong and Free! A podcast dedicated to providing you the information you need on the topics of the day!Sources used in this episode:Dr. Chloe Carmichael, “Political Polarization is a Psychology Problem,” Huffington Post, August 11, 2017: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/political-polarization-is-a-psychology-problem_us_5a01dd9ee4b07eb5118255e5Diana Petramala, et. Al, “Millennials in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area: A Generation Stuck in Apartments?” Centre for Urban Research and Land Development, Ryerson University, 2018: 5. https://www.ryerson.ca/content/dam/cur/pdfs/policycommentaries/CUR_Research_Report_Millennial_Housing_GTHA_May_22.pdfEric Grenier, “2015 federal election saw youth vote in unprecedented numbers,” CBC News, June 15, 2016: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/grenier-youth-turnout-2015-1.3636290--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/strongandfree/support