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Neil McKenna brings nearly a decade of experience from Parliament Hill, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Senate to deliver a refreshing Atlantic Canadian perspective on Canada's federal election landscape. As Senior Associate at Porter O'Brien, one of New Brunswick's top public affairs firms, McKenna offers unique insights that mainstream political coverage often overlooks.

The conversation begins with a striking revelation: St. John is considered "the most tariff-exposed city in Canada." This vulnerability creates a palpable anxiety among voters whose livelihoods in export-dependent industries like oil refining and pulp manufacturing hang in the balance of Canada-US relations. While affordability remains a universal concern, the specter of American tariffs carries particular weight in New Brunswick, where economic uncertainty directly translates to job security fears.

McKenna provides nuanced analysis of Susan Holtz's historic win as New Brunswick's first female premier, explaining how this provincial shift resulted from local dynamics rather than signaling federal voting intentions. Unlike Ontario's pattern of electing opposing parties provincially and federally, New Brunswick's political culture is shaped by distinct linguistic divides and immediate local concerns.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn as McKenna theorizes about declining voter turnout, suggesting that information overload and constant polling create premature narratives about inevitable outcomes. His candid assessment of party campaign strategies gives high marks to Mark Carney for effectively embodying calm leadership during uncertain times, while critiquing Conservatives for their delayed pivot from carbon tax messaging to addressing emerging economic concerns with the United States.

For anyone seeking to understand how global politics affects communities beyond Ottawa and Toronto, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how Atlantic Canadians are processing political messages and what really drives their voting decisions as election day approaches.

Quick heads up: This episode was recorded on April 17, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.

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What does it mean when your very existence becomes political? When a simple lawn sign signals far more than party preference? When motherhood itself becomes a political act?

Nneka Allen, founder of the Empathy Agency Inc., guides us through these profound questions in an unforgettable conversation that transcends typical political discourse. Drawing from her family's deep roots in the Underground Railroad and growing up in Windsor's historic Sandwich Town, Allen reveals how socialism and communalism shaped her worldview long before she understood political labels.

"If one person is struggling, it's everyone's business," Allen explains, describing the philosophy that guided her family and now informs her support of the NDP. For Allen, displaying an NDP lawn sign in a Conservative neighbourhood isn't about opposition but alignment: ensuring her actions match her values, regardless of community pressure.

The conversation takes a powerful turn as Allen articulates how Black women's identities carry inherent political weight in a society built on white supremacy. "Everything I do that doesn't align with the standard of whiteness is a political act," she shares, from her decision to stop straightening her hair decades ago to the strategic choices about which spaces she enters. This constant navigation between dominant culture and authentic selfhood permeates every aspect of her life.

As co-editor of "Collecting Courage," Allen discusses the importance of Black people telling their own stories to counter strategic erasure from national memory. These narratives encompass both pain and joy—a multiplicity that challenges simplified portrayals of Black experience. The oral traditions that sustained her family's history through generations now serve as tools for expanding our collective consciousness.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is Allen's exploration of "radical kinship"—reimagining who we consider related to us. This framework challenges capitalist individualism, asking us to consider what society might look like if policies centered on love and community rather than profit.

Despite the discouraging aspects of our current political landscape, Allen leaves us with a powerful reminder of hope: "Our power is always with the people, it's always in community." From a woman descended from those who "weren't meant to survive," this message resonates with undeniable truth—we are more powerful than we've been led to believe.

About Nneka Allen:

Nneka Allen is a Black Afro-Métis woman, a Momma, and a descendant of the Underground Railroad. Her ancestry includes African survivors of the Transatlantic Slave Trade who built North America through both free and forced labour on stolen land.

Over centuries, her freedom-seeking ancestors forged connections with the First Peoples of Turtle Island, linking Nneka to her Cherokee and Lumbee heritage.

As a relationship builder, stone-catcher, freedom fighter, storyteller, and leadership coach. In 2018, Nneka founded The Empathy Agency Inc., where she has a passion for guiding clients toward hope, purpose, and justice in their connections with themselves, others, and Earth.  Empowering wholeness and embracing humanity through empathy is her mission!

Website: https://www.theempathyagency.ca/meet-the-founder

Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/nnekaallen.bsky.social

Substack: https://substack.com/@nnekaallen

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The political landscape in Canada has never been more volatile, with leadership changeovers, looming elections, and economic uncertainty creating a perfect storm for businesses and citizens alike. How can organizations navigate this chaos while preparing for an uncertain future? What does the rise of economic nationalism mean for Canadian policy and prosperity?

Conal Slobodin, Vice President at Crestview Strategy, brings his unique perspective from both government and corporate worlds to address these pressing questions. Drawing from his experience at Walmart and in government relations, he offers candid insights about the growing disconnect between political rhetoric and everyday economic realities facing Canadians.

At the heart of our conversation is a call for reimagining the relationship between government and business. Rather than continuing the adversarial approach that has dominated recent years, Slobodin makes a compelling case for collaboration based on mutual understanding and appropriate risk-sharing. Government programs must evolve beyond supporting only "safe bet" investments if Canada hopes to compete with American jurisdictions that aggressively court economic development.

We also explore the critical issue of interprovincial trade barriers—those seemingly small regulations that collectively hamper national unity and economic growth. From credential recognition to alcohol transportation restrictions, these barriers symbolize a fragmented approach to nationhood that undermines our competitive position globally. Recent progress between Ontario and Atlantic provinces offers hope, but much work remains.

Whether you're a business leader trying to understand political risk, a policy enthusiast interested in economic nationalism, or simply a Canadian concerned about affordability and economic opportunity, this conversation provides valuable context for understanding the forces shaping our national future. Listen now to gain insights that go beyond partisan talking points and get to the heart of Canada's economic challenges and opportunities.

Just a quick note: this episode was recorded on April 22, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

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The political landscape in Canada stands at a critical juncture as the 2025 federal election looms just one week away. In this riveting conversation with Conal Slobodin, Vice President at Crestview Strategy, we unpack the seismic shifts reshaping voter demographics and campaign strategies across the country.

A fascinating phenomenon emerges as young men gravitate toward Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives while older women align with Mark Carney's Liberals—a complete reversal from the 2015 election dynamics. Social media has revolutionized political outreach, with Poilievre masterfully engaging disaffected young voters by validating their frustrations and offering pathways forward. Meanwhile, candidates struggle to balance domestic affordability concerns with the looming specter of Trump-era tariffs.

The conversation takes a critical turn as we examine the surprising absence of comprehensive campaign platforms so late in the election cycle. While the Liberals and NDP have released costed plans with significant spending, the Conservatives have opted for high-level messaging—a strategy that might prove either brilliant or disastrous. We dive deep into natural resource development, particularly the contentious Ring of Fire project, exploring whether economic growth can proceed while respecting Indigenous sovereignty.

Perhaps most compelling is our discussion of Northern Affairs and Arctic sovereignty—issues receiving insufficient attention as climate change transforms Canada's northern frontier. Slobodin delivers a passionate assessment of Canada's unpreparedness for defending its Arctic interests, arguing convincingly that military presence alone cannot secure our northern territories without parallel investments in community infrastructure and quality of life.

Ready to understand what's truly at stake in this watershed election? This episode delivers expert analysis on how Canada's political future hangs in the balance between competing visions for prosperity, sovereignty, and national identity. Subscribe now and join the conversation about who will lead Canada through the gathering storm.

Just a quick note: this episode was recorded on April 22, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

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George Soule takes us behind the curtain of NDP strategy, revealing the fascinating disconnect between federal idealism and provincial pragmatism that shapes progressive politics across Canada. With rare candor, this veteran political strategist unpacks why the NDP appears more centrist and economically-focused in prairie provinces while taking different positions federally.

Having worked directly with Jack Layton during the historic 2011 Orange Wave, Soule shares never-before-heard stories about what truly drove that unprecedented breakthrough. "Jack Layton wasn't Jack Layton until after 2011," he reveals, detailing how years of grassroots organizing, Quebec outreach, and fortuitous timing created perfect conditions for electoral success. The conversation illuminates how Layton's genuine ability to connect with voters—"eating rubber chicken in church basements" and building relationships one handshake at a time—laid groundwork that eventually paid off when Liberal support collapsed.

The episode also tackles a pressing question for progressives worldwide: why are working-class voters increasingly supporting conservative candidates? Soule offers thoughtful analysis on how right-wing messaging provides simpler narratives about economic struggles, while progressive parties face the challenge of communicating how they can simultaneously support both equity issues and labor concerns. "The right just has the easier argument," Soule admits, before exploring how progressives might reclaim this narrative.

Whether you're passionate about Canadian politics, interested in progressive strategy, or simply enjoy insider political stories, this conversation provides valuable perspective on how political movements evolve, succeed, and sometimes struggle to maintain their core coalitions. Soule's election predictions for the upcoming federal contest offer a fitting conclusion to this rich exploration of Canada's political landscape.

Have questions about political strategy or progressive organizing? Reach out to George at On Step Strategies for expert guidance on government relations and public affairs.

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My guest today is George Soule, NDP strategist and Principal at OnStep Strategies. George joins me to unpack what the polls are really telling us, why the Liberal Party’s shift to the centre-right matters, and why working-class voters may be drifting toward the Conservatives. And of course, we dive into where the NDP fits in, from big policy wins like dental care to the recent dip in their polling numbers.

In this episode, we break down what’s behind the NDP’s drop in the polls, and why their message may not be resonating with voters. We explore the growing conversation around strategic voting, vote-splitting, and how Canada’s multi-party system is being challenged by a creeping two-party dynamic. With voter turnout continuing to decline, we ask what it will take to re-engage the electorate and what campaigns can do to earn attention and trust.

We dig into the media’s role in shaping public perception, including how party leaders are engaging with both traditional and social media platforms. We also hone in on the Conservative Party of Canada and Pierre Poilievre and his combative approach with reporters and traditional media. We also discuss  why his campaign may have been slow to pivot from their “Canada is broken” message to addressing the real need for a clear tariff action plan for Canadians. 

Plus, we look at why national polling numbers can be misleading in a riding-by-riding reality, and what the recent narrowing of the Conservative lead means for all parties heading into the election. It’s a fast-changing political landscape—and we’re here to help you make sense of it.

Quick heads-up: this episode was recorded on April 15, 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 George Soule.

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What do U.S. tariffs, youth unemployment, and your grocery bill have in common? This week—everything.

I’m joined by Brendon Bernard, Senior Economist at Indeed, to unpack two major flashpoints shaking Canada’s economy: new U.S. tariffs with big implications for Canadian jobs, and a troubling rise in youth unemployment that could shape our labour market for years to come.

A staggering 25% of Canadians aged 15–24 have never held a job—a sharp jump from just a decade ago. What’s behind this shift? We dig into the data and the deeper story with one of Canada’s leading labour economists.

We also get into:

• Why job seekers—especially young people—are facing steeper odds
• The quiet drop in job postings and job hopping
• How population growth, immigration shifts, and interest rates are all colliding

From the fading glow of a post-pandemic job-seeker’s market to the mounting pressures of a more competitive economy, we break down what’s happening—and why it matters.

Whether you’re a policy wonk, economics nerd, or just wondering why your bananas cost $1.50 more—this episode is for you.

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Ever wonder what really happened during the 2008 financial crisis, and how Canada managed to weather the storm? Or why our housing market is so…well, interesting? In this episode of Let's Talk Politics, we sit down with the brilliant Don Drummond, a leading Canadian economist, to unpack some seriously complex issues with a dose of real-world perspective.

We dive into the recent political sparring over economic leadership during the 2008 financial crisis, and Don sets the record straight about the collaborative effort that kept Canada afloat during a global meltdown. It wasn't just about one person; it was teamwork, folks! We explore the crucial roles played by the Bank of Canada, the Finance Minister, OSFI, and even CMHC, and why their coordinated approach mattered.

But we don't stop there. We tackle the housing market puzzle, the impact of immigration policies, and the challenges of bridging the skills gap. Don shares eye-opening stories from his time working with CEOs and his experiences talking to workers and average Canadians across the country, revealing the disconnect between policy and reality.

This isn't your typical dry economics lesson. Don's insights are sharp and his stories are real . We're talking about the human side of economic decisions, the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, and the need for a 'Team Canada' approach in tough times.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that's both informative and deeply engaging. Because when it comes to Canada's economic future, we're all in this together. Tune in and let's talk politics – and economics – with a dose of humanity.

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Join me for a deep dive into Canada’s productivity problem with the brilliant Canadian economist Don Drummond. We explore why Canada’s small businesses struggle to scale, the policies that could help them grow into global industry leaders, and the critical need to reduce our dependence on American imports.

We also unpack the key entrepreneurial and cultural differences between Canada and the U.S. and what it will take to position Canada as a top destination for business investment. Don shares his insights on the tax policies he developed during his career at Finance Canada, along with some entertaining behind-the-scenes stories from his time working with former Prime Ministers Jean Chrétien and Brian Mulroney.

From tax policies to economic growth strategies, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and candid stories that every Canadian business leader, policy wonk, or economics enthusiast needs to hear. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional ideas about Canada’s fiscal and tax policies—and explores the path forward.

With over 20 years of experience at Finance Canada, a tenure as Chief Economist at TD Bank, and now as a fellow in residence at C.D. Howe Institute and Stauffer-Dunning Fellow at Queen’s University - School of Policy Studies, Don brings his unparalleled expertise in the field of economics to this conversation. 

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Canada’s economy is at a crossroads. U.S. tariffs have exposed deeper weaknesses—lagging productivity, sluggish investment, and over-reliance on the U.S. market. But could this be the wake-up call Canada needs? In this special episode of Let’s Talk Politics, we sit down with Don Drummond, one of Canada’s top economic minds, to unpack the risks and opportunities that lie ahead with the looming threat of US tariffs on the Canadian economy. With over two decades of experience at Finance Canada, a stint as Chief Economist at TD Bank, and now a leading voice at the C.D. Howe Institute and Stauffer-Dunning Fellow at Queen’s University, Don brings deep insight into fiscal, monetary, and tax policy. In part 1 of this 3-part series, we break down how tariffs are hitting Canadian jobs, particularly the auto sector, the lonnie, and Canada’s economic growth. Plus, we dive into the big questions: How can Canada build a stronger economy? What role do policy changes, trade diversification, and productivity investment play? We also explore ethical investing, environmental policy, and what’s next for interest rates. If you care about where Canada’s economy is headed, you won’t want to miss this episode—listen now!