Countries like Sweden and Finland, that live near a hostile power, have made huge investments in civil defence, preparing their citizens to respond to any emergency, from an environmental catastrophe to foreign interference and even invasion.

Canada has done this in the past as well, just not for decades. What would a modern Canadian Civil Defence Corps look like? 

Host Jordan Heath-Rawlings and producer Laura Palmer speak with Peter MacLeod, principal of MASS LBP and the author, with Richard Johnson, of Democracy’s Second Act (out this fall from the University of Toronto’s Aevo Press).

First, Jordan explains what made us make Elbows Up, what you can expect from it and how you can help us shape it. Then (10:26), Jordan and Peter discuss exactly what a new era of civil defence would mean, and (27:00) how Canada can achieve it. Finally, the three of us share our thoughts on why so many Canadians are feeling moved to action now.

Feedback from listeners is so, so welcome. If you have something to say, email us: [email protected].