Send us a text

What’s the real economic cost of excluding women from the workforce, business opportunities, and leadership roles in Canada? The answer might shock you – nearly $180 billion in lost GDP according to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. This eye-opening figure represents more than just a moral failure; it's a massive missed business opportunity that Canada simply can't afford.

Our conversation with Marwa Abdou, Senior Research Director with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Business Data Lab, goes beyond the standard talking points on gender equity to explore the hard economic realities. With her background working with global organizations like the World Bank and OECD, Marwa brings data-driven clarity to a conversation often clouded by misconceptions and platitudes.

The reality for women in Canadian business is stark: only 5% of CEOs in top companies are women, less than 1 in 5 businesses are majority women-owned, and a mere 2.3% of venture capital funding goes to all-female founding teams. These aren't just social justice statistics – they represent billions in untapped economic potential during a time when Canada desperately needs to boost productivity and competitiveness.

What makes this situation particularly frustrating is that women face not just one barrier but multiple "glass ceilings" and "broken rungs" throughout their careers. From entry-level bias to the promotion plateau in middle management, from boardroom exclusion to disproportionate care responsibilities, women navigate an obstacle course that men simply don't encounter. The problem isn't a lack of education, skills or ambition – it's a deeply entrenched ecosystem that makes scaling exponentially harder for women entrepreneurs and executives.

Ready to understand what policies could move the needle on this critical economic issue? Curious about how trade policy, regulatory reform, and a reimagined care economy could transform Canada's economic landscape? This episode offers concrete insights into how businesses and policymakers can turn gender equity from a talking point into an economic advantage. 

Don't miss part two of our conversation, where we'll dive deeper into workplace changes and practical advice for women entrepreneurs navigating these challenging waters.

Check out Marwa Abdou’s work here:

Barely Breaking Ground: The Slow Stride of Progress for Women in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/barely-breaking-ground/

Women Entrepreneurs: Canada’s Biggest Missed Business Opportunity: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/women-entrepreneurs-canadas-biggest-missed-business-opportunity/ 

Send us a text

Polling has quietly revolutionized Canadian politics, transforming from occasional front-page news to a constant stream of data that shapes both voter behavior and party strategy. Political analyst  Éric Grenier joins us to unpack this evolution and what it means for democracy in the digital age.

"The fact that polling numbers come out adds credence, adds urgency to political conversations," Grenier explains, highlighting how data doesn't just measure public opinion—it actively shapes it. This was dramatically demonstrated in the recent federal election when daily polling reinforced a two-party narrative that contributed to the NDP's worst-ever electoral performance at just 6% support.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through regional political landscapes. In Quebec, the Liberals made surprising inroads with francophone voters who have long been skeptical of federal Liberal leadership. Atlantic Canada revealed complex voter realignments, with Liberals picking up traditionally Conservative ridings in Nova Scotia while losing ground in rural Newfoundland. These shifts challenge conventional wisdom about regional voting patterns and suggest new electoral possibilities.

Perhaps most striking is Grenier's analysis of Canadian voter fluidity. Unlike Americans, Canadians regularly switch party allegiances—sometimes dramatically. "One in five Canadians changed their minds over the last couple of months," Grenier notes about the pre-election period. This fluidity stems from our less class-based politics and regionalized party system, creating opportunities and challenges for political strategists.

The episode concludes with a sobering look at Alberta separatism, where polling shows 25-35% support for independence. However, this sentiment appears more tied to federal leadership than a fundamental desire for separation—a revealing insight into the complex relationship between western Canada and Ottawa.

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 29, 2025 so while the news may have changed this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

This conversation offers invaluable context for understanding Canada's evolving political landscape. Subscribe now and join us next week for another in-depth exploration of the forces shaping our democracy.

Follow Éric on:

X: https://x.com/EricGrenierTW 

The Writ: https://www.thewrit.ca/ 

The Numbers/Les Chiffres: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenumberspod 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrit 

Send us a text

The chronic underfunding of Ontario's public services has reached a critical tipping point, and the latest provincial budget has only deepened concerns among experts and citizens alike. This eye-opening conversation with Kelly Baker, founder of Informed Advocacy, pulls back the curtain on what's really happening with healthcare and education funding in Ontario.

Baker doesn't mince words when analyzing the provincial budget's impact on healthcare: "They're showing a 2% growth in healthcare year over year. I think that's just not realistic." With an aging population, millions without access to family doctors, and emergency rooms at capacity, this minimal increase fails to address even basic inflationary costs. The consequences? A system where preventable issues escalate into expensive emergency care scenarios. As Baker points out, keeping people in emergency rooms or hospitals becomes "the most expensive way to deliver care" – creating a vicious cycle of higher costs and poorer outcomes.

The education sector faces similar challenges. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) projects a staggering $58 million deficit for 2025-2026, with infrastructure literally crumbling in some schools. Drawing from her experience as a former TDSB media relations coordinator, Baker observes that many problems are cyclical – the same issues she saw years ago continue today, suggesting a pattern of short-term fixes rather than sustainable solutions. When schools flood during rainstorms and essential programs face cuts, the consequences extend far beyond budget spreadsheets to impact student learning and community well-being.

For organizations hoping to influence government priorities, Baker recommends focusing on the long-term economic impact of current underfunding. By demonstrating how proper investment now prevents ballooning costs later, advocates can frame their message in terms that resonate with budget-conscious officials. As summer approaches, this is the perfect time to reassess engagement strategies and align advocacy efforts with the government's stated economic priorities. 

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 27, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.

What's your experience with Ontario's public services? Have you noticed the effects of these funding decisions in your community?

Send us a text

The political winds have shifted dramatically in Canada following a transformative federal election that has ushered Mark Carney into the Prime Minister's Office. This episode dives deep into the new government's first moves with expert analysis from Kelly Baker, founder of Informed Advocacy and one of Canada's top lobbyists.

Carney's approach to governance already shows stark contrasts to his predecessor. His cabinet, notably slimmed down to 28 ministers and 10 secretaries of state, with many political newcomers filling key roles. This business-oriented cabinet structure raises questions about whether government can—or should—operate like the corporate world, especially when facing complex challenges like American tariff threats and looming recession concerns.

The historic visit of King Charles III, who delivered the throne speech in Parliament, signals Carney's strategic pivot toward strengthening international relationships beyond the United States. As Kelly explains, this diplomatic maneuver serves multiple purposes: reinforcing Commonwealth ties, demonstrating Canada's international allies, and positioning the country to diversify its trade relationships in uncertain economic times.

Perhaps most controversial is the government's decision to delay the federal budget until fall—a move that creates significant ripple effects for provinces and municipalities that depend on federal funding commitments. Kelly provides insight into how this budgetary uncertainty impacts provincial planning for critical public services from healthcare delivery to housing initiatives and infrastructure planning, revealing the complex interdependencies between different levels of government.

Want to understand how the political chess pieces are moving in Canada's new parliamentary configuration? Listen now for expert analysis on what these early decisions tell us about Carney's governance approach and their potential impact on Canadians across the country.

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 27, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. So Let’s Talk Politics with Kelly Baker. 

Send us a text

The political ground beneath Canada has shifted dramatically. In the wake of a historic federal election that saw both major parties crack 40% of the vote, Prime Minister Mark Carney now leads a Liberal minority government facing extraordinary challenges on multiple fronts.

Stepping into the House of Commons with a freshly appointed cabinet, Carney must immediately navigate Alberta separation threats, tariff pressures from Trump's America, and the delicate dance of leading a parliament where his predecessor's ghost still lingers. His cabinet selections reveal a calculated balance – enough fresh faces to signal change while retaining experienced hands to maintain stability during turbulent times.

Perhaps most fascinating is the generational realignment revealed in voting patterns. The Liberals dominated among older white men– traditionally Conservative territory – while Poilievre's Conservatives captured unprecedented support from millennials and Gen Z voters. This political fluidity, where Canadians cross party lines based on issues rather than tribal loyalty, stands in stark contrast to America's hardening political divisions.

Inside Carney's cabinet, fault lines are already appearing. Environment Minister Stephen Guilbeault's comments about new pipelines contradicts PM Carney's more development-friendly stance. Is this hinting at the tensions that will define this government? Meanwhile, the opposition landscape has transformed with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre losing his own seat and now seeking redemption through an Alberta by-election.

For anyone trying to make sense of today’s volatile political era, political strategist Stephanie Mitton—CEO and Founder of Beacon North Strategies—joins us to unpack the unfolding political drama and share her strategic insights on Canada’s current political landscape.

Whether you lean left or right, understanding perspectives across the political spectrum helps grasp the complexity of issues facing the country. As Carney implements his first priority – a middle-class tax cut by July 1st – the question remains whether this former central banker can translate his financial expertise into political success amid provincial tensions and global economic uncertainty.

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 15, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Listen now to understand the forces reshaping Canadian politics and what lies ahead in this new parliamentary chapter.

Send us a text

The political landscape has shifted dramatically following Canada's historic election, and we're here to make sense of it all. Political analyst Éric Grenier joins us to decode the fascinating demographic shifts that defined this election – older voters surprisingly breaking for the Liberals while younger Canadians moved toward the Conservatives.

We also explore why King Charles reading the throne speech created a moment of historical significance but reveals the monarchy's limited relevance for most Canadians. Grenier offers a candid assessment: "While some people are still very attached to the monarchy, there's not a lot of passion to get rid of it, and not a lot of passion to keep it."

The government's controversial decision to delay the federal budget until fall raises questions about transparency and strategy. Is Carney trying to accommodate economic uncertainty from Trump's tariff threats, or avoiding fiscal accountability? We examine both possibilities and what they mean for governance.

Cabinet appointments reveal Carney's approach to leadership – bringing in new faces while maintaining experienced ministers. But the unified mandate letter signals a departure from Trudeau's style toward a more centralized governance approach focused on economic priorities.

Listen now for these insights and more as we navigate Canada's political pressure cooker – a minority government facing economic uncertainty and a dramatically changed voter landscape. 

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 29, 2025 so while the news may have changed this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Subscribe for part two where we'll dive into the evolution of polling, social media's impact on politics, and fascinating regional trends including Alberta separatism and Quebec's electoral dynamics.

Follow Eric on:

X: https://x.com/EricGrenierTW 

The Writ: https://www.thewrit.ca/ 

The Numbers/Les Chiffres: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenumberspod 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrit 

Send us a text

Western alienation and Alberta separatism take center stage as Dan Arnold, Chief Strategy Officer at Pollara Strategic Insights breaks down the complex dynamics fueling separatist sentiment in Canada's oil-rich province.

Political influencers like Preston Manning have significantly amplified separatist messaging, claiming "a vote for Carney liberals is basically a vote for the breakup of Canada." Arnold explains how public opinion follows political leadership, potentially growing separatist support from 20% to 30%, though likely not enough to win a referendum. The conversation explores an Alberta separatist group's proposed referendum question and the contradictions in their platform—wanting independence while maintaining Canadian benefits like pensions and passports.

The digital media landscape plays a critical role in this movement, with alternative media creating echo chambers that reinforce grievance narratives. Arnold provides fascinating insights into modern polling methodology, explaining how researchers don't just measure baseline support but identify which messages might change opinions and which spokespeople would be most effective in referendum campaigns.

Data collection has evolved dramatically, moving from telephone surveys to sophisticated online platforms that test visual elements and measure reactions to different scenarios. This technological advancement helps researchers understand younger demographics who consume political information through entirely different channels than previous generations.

Drawing from his experience teaching political management at Carleton University, Arnold emphasizes how understanding the fundamental "ballot question" driving voter decisions remains essential to political success. The recent Liberal victory demonstrates how quickly fortunes can shift when voter priorities change from cost of living concerns to fears about Trump-style politics.

Want to understand what drives Western discontent? This episode offers unique insights into the data behind the headlines and why timing and messaging matter more than ever in Canadian politics. Subscribe now to continue exploring the forces shaping our political landscape.

Quick heads up: This episode was recorded on May 18, 2025, so while some headlines may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the insights still remain relevant. 

Subscribe now to continue exploring the forces shaping our political landscape.

Send us a text

Prime Minister Mark Carney's early days as Prime Minister have been defined by bold moves and high-stakes diplomacy. Joining us today to unpack the fast moving political scene, is Dan Arnold, Chief Strategy Officer at Pollara Strategic Insights. 

The Prime Minister's first face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump provided a defining moment when Carney firmly but diplomatically responded to Trump's jest about acquiring Canada with "You're in real estate, and there are some things that aren't for sale. And Canada’s Not for Sale." This exchange, which went viral across social media platforms, reinforced Carney's image as someone who can effectively represent Canadian interests while maintaining a productive relationship with an unpredictable ally.  In today's politics, these visual moments matter enormously - perhaps more than policy details for many voters who consume their politics through social media clips rather than traditional news outlets.

Perhaps most fascinating is the dramatic demographic realignment revealed in the recent federal election. For the first time since 1930, both major parties, Liberals and Conservatives,  cracked 40% of the popular vote, with Conservatives making significant inroads with younger voters while Liberals performed unexpectedly well with white male seniors. This role reversal challenges conventional political wisdom and suggests deep shifts in how generational cohorts perceive the major parties. 

Meanwhile, growing separatist sentiment in Alberta presents perhaps Carney's biggest challenge moving forward. Unlike Quebec separatism, Alberta's movement stems from economic and political alienation - a sense that Ottawa doesn't respect the province's industries and priorities. As an Alberta-raised Prime Minister, Carney has unique credibility to address these concerns, but navigating this national unity challenge while implementing his broader agenda will test his political skills in the months ahead.

Quick heads up—this episode was recorded May 18, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us a text

The ice-cold reality of Canada's housing market takes center stage in our latest deep dive with Chief Economist at British Columbia Real Estate Association, Brendon Ogmundson. Housing sales have plummeted nearly 10% compared to last year as buyers retreat in the face of tariff uncertainty and stubbornly high interest rates. This market stagnation, persisting since 2022, raises critical questions about where we're headed—especially as newly-appointed Housing Minister Gregor Robertson sidesteps questions about whether home prices should actually fall.

What's particularly fascinating is the contradicting signals we're receiving about consumer financial health. On one hand, total consumer debt in Canada has ballooned to $2.5 trillion, with non-mortgage delinquencies surging. Yet mortgage defaults remain near historic lows at just 0.17%—far below even financial crisis levels. Ogmundson explains this paradox while warning about a potential "iceberg" scenario where rising unemployment combined with higher mortgage payments could trigger serious market disruption. The generational shift in debt philosophy compounds these concerns, as younger Canadians approach mortgages with dramatically different expectations than their parents, often relying on substantial family gifts averaging $150,000 just to enter the market.

We also explore how policy decisions are shaping housing affordability, from the controversial foreign buyers ban extension to the crushing impact of development cost charges that can add up to 35% to a home's final price. Perhaps most compellingly, Ogmundson outlines how prefabricated construction might be our best hope for solving the supply crisis—if we can overcome decades of lagging productivity growth nationally.  Whether you're a homeowner, prospective buyer, or simply concerned about Canada's economic future, this conversation provides crucial insights into the complex forces shaping where we'll live and how much we'll pay. Subscribe now and join us for more eye-opening discussions about the policies affecting your daily life.

Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on May 8, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Want to keep up with Brendon? Check out his economic analysis on BCREA’s website: https://www.bcrea.bc.ca/economics/#monthly-publications

Send us a text

Economic uncertainty hangs like a fog over Canada’s future — and in this episode, Brendon Ogmundson, Chief Economist at the British Columbia Real Estate Association, helps us cut through it. He breaks down the complex forces reshaping our financial landscape, from housing markets to global trade tensions.

But beyond the usual indicators lies something harder to pin down: what Ogmundson calls “uncertainty as more of a vibe than something that can be quantified.” It’s a vibe that’s freezing consumer confidence and sidelining homebuyers, with BC home sales now sitting 20–25% below the 10-year average.

The stakes are rising. With potential U.S. tariffs on the horizon and economic policy uncertainty measured at levels four times higher than during the 2008 financial crisis, markets are bracing for impact. Even though BC enjoys more diversified trade — sending only 50% of exports to the U.S., compared to much higher figures in other provinces — it remains vulnerable to global headwinds. As Ogmundson puts it: “We’re a small, open economy. If the global economy slows, the BC economy will slow as well.”

The conversation takes a surreal but fitting turn, comparing our current moment to a Twilight Zone episode — one where fear and unpredictability rule the day. It’s a powerful metaphor for a strange, unstable era where economic “stagflation-lite,” soaring construction costs, and stalled development pipelines feel all too real.

If you're looking to understand the intersection of trade tensions, housing affordability, and monetary policy — all from a BC lens — this episode is essential listening. Ogmundson’s insights go beyond the headlines, offering a grounded perspective on why this moment feels so different from past downturns — and what we should be watching next.

Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on May 8, 2025, so while the news may have evolved, the insights still hit home.