John Gradek, an aviation management lecturer at McGill University, shares insights into the evolving landscape of airline travel. He discusses Air Canada's new fees for carry-ons and seat selections, questioning the motivations behind these charges. Gradek analyzes how post-pandemic pricing strategies have shifted, causing airlines to adopt ultra-basic tickets with hidden costs. He also explores the competitive dynamics in Canada’s airline industry and the potential for government regulations to ensure fair pricing amidst rising costs.

Lisa Hannam, Editor in Chief at MoneySense.ca, dives into holiday spending amid economic challenges. She discusses 'giftflation' and offers tips for thoughtful gifting that fosters relationships without breaking the bank. The conversation includes ways to shift from material gifts to meaningful experiences, emphasizing the joy of family connections over financial pressure. Lisa provides advice on navigating tough conversations about skipping gifts this year, encouraging honest communication about financial priorities.

In this engaging discussion, Randal Goodfellow, President of the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers' Association, shares his expertise on the vital yet vulnerable maple syrup industry in Canada. He highlights how climate change threatens production, particularly due to rising temperatures affecting sap quality. The conversation also delves into the rich history of maple syrup, Ontario’s growth potential, and the dramatic theft that shook the industry. With humor and insight, Randal paints a picture of maple syrup’s cultural significance and future challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the École Polytechnique massacre and a tireless advocate for gun control in Canada, reflects on the tragedy’s enduring impact. She shares her haunting memories of that day and the emotional weight of remembering the victims. Nathalie emphasizes the critical need for stricter gun laws and addresses the ongoing challenge of violence against women, urging listeners to recognize the urgency of this issue as Canada approaches elections.

Jason Clifton, a partner at EY Canada and co-author of a report on EV buyer intent, joins Erik Novak, a professor and automotive journalist, to dissect the decline in Canadian interest in electric vehicles. They discuss the challenges of consumer perception, ranging from charging infrastructure to ownership costs. The duo emphasizes the role of effective marketing and government incentives in boosting EV adoption, while tackling misconceptions about energy consumption and the need for collaboration among stakeholders to meet ambitious electric vehicle goals.

In this conversation, François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, discusses the hypothetical notion of Canada becoming the 51st state, sparked by a light-hearted remark at a high-profile dinner. He dives deep into the intricacies of Canada-U.S. relations, especially with Trump’s potential return to office. Champagne emphasizes personal connections in diplomacy, the significance of North America's trade ties, and the strategic cabinet adjustments necessary to navigate this new political landscape.

Keith Warrnier, a food safety expert from the University of Guelph and former president of the Ontario Food Protection Association, dives into the pressing issue of food safety in Canada. He addresses alarming recent recalls, including cucumbers linked to salmonella, and discusses the challenges faced by the food inspection system. Warrnier emphasizes the need for better detection methods and highlights the complex dynamics between government and companies during recalls. Listeners gain insights into the evolving landscape of food safety and reassurances about Canada’s food supply.

Nik Nanos, Chief Data Scientist at Nanos Research, dives into the intriguing concept of a "vibecession"—a term coined by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland to describe fluctuating economic sentiments. He discusses how the recent U.S. elections impact consumer confidence in Canada, revealing a disconnect between economic indicators and public perception. Nik also sheds light on the psychological effects of economic rhetoric, the uncertainty caused by potential U.S. tariffs, and the importance of negotiation in alleviating trade tensions.

Chantal Braganza, a Toronto-based writer and editor, joins to discuss the staggering costs of raising children in Canada, estimating it at $293,000 for two kids. She explores factors contributing to Canada’s declining fertility rate, emphasizing financial challenges like rising living costs and daycare expenses. The conversation also touches on the need for improved support for parents, including reforms in employment insurance and affordable childcare initiatives. Strategies from other countries are highlighted as potential solutions to enhance family stability.

Dr. Carmen Celestini, a lecturer at the University of Waterloo who specializes in extremism and conspiracy theories, dives into the implications of Pat King's conviction from the 2022 convoy protests. She discusses how this verdict could influence the legal battles of other organizers and the trajectory of far-right movements in Canada. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of political expression versus extremism, and how societal changes, including potential shifts under a new U.S. administration, may amplify these dynamics.