Shaun Newman Podcast

Join Julie Ponesse, a Philosophy and Ethics Ph.D. and professor at Huron College, as she dives into the contentious arena of vaccine mandates and individual autonomy. She discusses her moral stand against vaccine passports, willing to sacrifice her job for her beliefs. The conversation explores the balance between societal pressures and personal rights, invoking historical references like the Nuremberg Code. Ponesse also highlights the importance of community, informed consent, and critical dialogue during the pandemic. Her insights offer a thought-provoking look at ethics in modern health policies.

Danielle Larsen is a certified athletic therapist from Alberta, volunteering with the Lakeland Region Winter Games Society for the 2026 Winter Games. Dexter Nelson, also a certified athletic therapist, founded the Canadian Pro Rodeo Sport Medicine Program. They discuss the critical role of certified athletic therapists in safeguarding athletes' health and addressing injuries during competitions. The conversation highlights the evolution of athlete care in rodeo, the importance of community support for youth sports, and the need for funding to ensure comprehensive medical care at events.

Nick Bryant, an investigative journalist renowned for his critical work on child trafficking scandals, shares his insights into the dark world of systemic abuse. He discusses the challenges of exposing corruption linked to high-profile cases like the Franklin Scandal and the Epstein affair. Bryant highlights the media's failures in seeking justice for victims and the urgent need for accountability. He advocates for transparency and emphasizes the role of journalism in safeguarding vulnerable children, demanding a collective effort toward change.

Karla Treadway, a professional 'shit poster' and host of The Sovereign CEO podcast, joins the conversation with humor and insightful critiques. They discuss the absurdities of online personas, the challenges surrounding a costly bike lane project in Nova Scotia, and governance tensions in Alberta. The duo humorously tackles societal issues like men’s sports participation and the strange dynamics of real estate. With anecdotes tying in cultural commentary, they explore health risks linked to extreme dieting while keeping the atmosphere light and entertaining.

Murray McDonnell, a retired teacher and coach from Lashburn, shares his journey from teaching to painting after 30 years in the classroom. He discusses his self-taught rugby coaching strategies that led to five provincial titles, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship. Murray highlights how sports foster life skills like resilience and teamwork, along with memorable coaching triumphs and challenges. His transition from rugby to art showcases the courage to embrace new challenges, underlining the transformative power of both sports and creativity.

Sharita Star is a seasoned astrologer, numerologist, and author, with two decades of experience guiding clients through cosmic insights. In this chat, she dives into navigating cosmic cycles and their impact on human behavior. Sharita highlights the significance of embracing personal growth amid societal changes, especially during global shifts. She also discusses the influence of lunar phases on emotions and relationships while emphasizing the power of gut instincts in decision-making. Her insights lend a fresh perspective on astrology's relationship with personal passion and societal pressures.

Brad Mills, a Canadian entrepreneur and Bitcoin advocate, dives into his fascinating journey in the crypto world, having started in 2011 as a miner. He shares insights on the economic challenges of his Cape Breton upbringing and the debate between gold and Bitcoin. Mills also discusses his Mormon faith, touching on intriguing beliefs about the afterlife. With engaging anecdotes, he reflects on his evolution from a struggling comedian to a full-fledged entrepreneur and filmmaker, highlighting the importance of resilience and clear investment goals.

Taylor King, a savvy real estate agent and host of the Commission Impossible podcast, dives into a variety of engaging topics. He shares witty insights into the nuances of Canadian politics while weaving in humorous anecdotes about sports and societal quirks. The talk takes a sharp turn to discuss the Epstein case, questioning the justice system's failures. King also tackles the complex debates surrounding gender rights and the ties of organized crime to the tow truck industry, keeping the conversation lively and thought-provoking.

Judy Reeves, a survivor of the 1991 Perfect Storm and a former International Fisheries Observer, shares her gripping journey at sea and the challenges faced during extreme weather conditions. She discusses the emotional complexities of life on a fishing vessel, from camaraderie to crisis management. Judy also dives into personal growth and the interplay of fear and love in life decisions, highlighting how transformative experiences shape one's identity and resilience. Her insights on the unpredictability of nature and the search for self-acceptance are both profound and inspiring.

Coaches Deb MacArthur, Morgan Mann, and Chris King share their extensive experience in guiding young athletes across various sports. They dive into the evolution of coaching techniques and mentorship, highlighting the joy of nurturing young talent. The discussion touches on the importance of balancing enjoyment with competition to prevent burnout, while emphasizing team dynamics and personal growth. Anecdotes about coaching challenges and the unique advantages offered by small-town sports enrich their conversation, making it both insightful and relatable.