Beyond a Ballot

It's the end of season 3 and we're going out with a BANG! We welcome former MP Michelle Ferreri and political strategists Jordan Leichnitz and Nicole Brassard to break down the parliamentary session, where we're at politically and what each party needs to do this summer! THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING LISTENERS! Mark your calendar: We will be back on September 25th 2026! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Amanda and Rachael break down the big headlines of the week including the Justin Trudeau/Katy Perry love story, CUSMA negotiations, the G-7 next week and the online harms bill! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Amanda and Rachael break down the BC Conservative leadership race, Don Davie's proposed floor crossing bill, Trump and Leblanc, Cusma and Ontario liberal leadership! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Is Alberta the favourite child in the federation? As things heat up between BC and Alberta, we sit down with former Executive Director of the BC NDP, Raj Sihota and former Principal Secretary to Premier Danielle Smith, Erika Barootes to debate! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

This week we chat about the Spring Economic Update and King Charles and Jamil Jivan's trips to Washington! Plus - Our sit down with Royal Commentator Bonnie Brownlee on the King's visit with President Trump! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

On this episode we sit down with Christina Mitas, the youngest and first-ever elected woman to serve as President of the Conservative Party of Canada. Christina’s path through politics is anything but conventional. From her time as an MPP in Ontario to stepping into one of the most influential organizational roles in federal politics, we talk about it all! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Floor crossings, by-elections, and a potential Liberal majority—what’s really happening behind the scenes in Ottawa? We're joined by Stephanie Levitz of The Globe and Mail to break down the strategy, stakes, and shifting political power. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

One year in, what letter grade would you give Mark Carney? Kate Harrison and Supriya Dwivedi break down the highs and lows of the first year of Prime Minister Carney and give him his final grade! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Voting is open for the federal NDP leadership race! We sit down with all 5 candidates to ask them for their best pitch, their vision for the NPD in 2026 and what their first 100 days as leader would bring. Take a listen to Tanille Johnston, Tony McQuail, Rob Ashton, Heather McPherson and Avi Lewis! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

In this International Women’s Day special episode, The Firsts , we sit down with two trailblazers who helped reshape Canadian politics from opposite sides of the aisle: Deborah Grey and Sheila Copps. Grey made history as the first Member of Parliament elected for the Reform Party, helping spark a political movement that would later transform Canada’s conservative landscape, while Copps became Canada’s first female Deputy Prime Minister under Jean Chrétien and served in senior cabinet roles including Minister of the Environment and Minister of Canadian Heritage. Despite their partisan differences, they join us for a candid conversation about what it meant to be among the “firsts” in Canadian politics, the challenges of stepping into spaces long dominated by men, how the culture of politics has evolved for women, and why opening doors for the next generation of leaders matters more than ever. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Our series, The Big Story, continues! In this episode, Tracy Walder, a former CIA officer and FBI agent , shares her experiences in national security, insights on Mexico's current security situation, and the impact of drug cartels on North America. She discusses her career, the role of women in intelligence, and the importance of addressing domestic terrorism and security challenges. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

We explore the complex dynamics of floor crossing in Canadian politics, analyzing recent high-profile defections, their implications for party loyalty, democracy, and leadership strategies. We look at the moral, strategic, and societal impacts of politicians switching parties, with insights into the current political landscape and future trends. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

A catch up on the latest political news and a conversation about the horrific events in Tumbler Ridge 00:00 - Episode introduction and recap of recent convention experiences 01:08 - Conservative convention insights and leader support trends 04:36 - Electoral participation and convention demographics 07:33 - MPs rejecting pay increases and examples of public service 09:21 - Internal party conflicts and upcoming by-elections 12:53 - Parliamentary cooperation, government stability, and potential elections 15:08 - Recent changes and debates around Canada's electric vehicle policies 19:26 - The tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge and national response 32:31 - Presidential reactions, media conduct, and community mourning 37:35 - The importance of mental health awareness and ongoing discussions 38:15 - Closing remarks and call to reflection on recent events Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

In our new series, THE BIG STORY, we look at the major news stories happening around the world. Our first conversation delves into the complexities of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in the United States with the women of Pantsuit Politics, Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland. We explore ICE's origins, functions, and the political controversies surrounding it. The discussion highlights the shifts in immigration policy under different administrations, the militarization of immigration enforcement, and the impact of media and public perception on the agency's operations. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

2026 has already been wild -- how are you feeling? We do a dive into everything that has happened globally in 2026 including Venezuela, Iran, Davos and Carney's trip to China and Qatar. Chapters 00:00 Leadership in Crisis: Carney's Davos Speech 02:53 Contrasting Leadership Styles: Carney vs. Trump 05:25 Canada's Global Positioning: Middle Power Dynamics 08:11 Navigating Trade Relationships: The China Deal 10:57 The EV Controversy: Balancing Trade and Domestic Interests 13:52 Military Preparedness: The Reality of U.S. Relations 16:41 The Future of Canadian Sovereignty: A Call to Action 23:03 Trump's Controversial Strategies and Backlash 24:23 Canada's Presence at Davos: A Pop Star Moment 31:20 Venezuela's Political Turmoil and Global Implications 41:40 Political Landscape in Canada: Upcoming Challenges and Changes Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Our federal election pod band is back! We welcome back Hannah Thibedeau and Kathleen Monk join us this week to talk about the tumultuous political landscape in Canada throughout 2025 and share predictions for politics in 2026! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! - Amanda & Rachael Programming note: We will be back with a new episode on January 23rd 2026! Chapters 00:00 Political Whiplash in Canada 03:01 The Story of 2025: Turbulence and Change 05:39 Mark Carney: The New Political Force 08:41 Pierre Poliev: Leadership Challenges 11:36 Opposition Dynamics: NDP and Bloc Quebecois 14:27 Looking Ahead: The Future of Canadian Politics 21:06 The Importance of Cooperation in Canadian Politics 23:49 The Future of the NDP and Leadership Choices 26:27 Provincial Politics and Their Impact on Federal Dynamics 29:30 Provincial Leaders and Their Influence 31:50 Looking Ahead to 2026: Predictions and Concerns Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Katie Telford, former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, reflects on her extensive political career, the evolution of Canadian politics, and the challenges faced during her time as Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister. The conversation includes the rise of Trudeau, the impact of the pandemic, and the political tensions surrounding the convoy protests. Telford shares insights on leadership, the importance of diversity in politics, and her personal reflections on navigating a demanding career in public service. Chapters 00:00 Reflections on a Year of Change 02:45 The Early Political Journey 05:28 Defining Values and Political Alignment 08:00 The Rise of Justin Trudeau 10:59 Navigating the 2015 Election 13:36 The Significance of Gender Parity in Cabinet 16:20 Cannabis Policy and Its Implications 19:20 Challenges and Controversies 21:51 Leading Through a Global Pandemic 37:29 Navigating Communication During the Pandemic 40:21 The Pressure of Vaccine Distribution 42:31 Addressing Vaccine Mandate Opposition 45:09 The Invocation of the Emergencies Act 48:12 Toxicity in Politics and Its Impact 55:37 Leadership Challenges and Political Dynamics 01:01:31 Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders 01:08:31 Reflections on Achievements and Future Directions Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

LIVE FROM THE EMPIRE CLUB OF CANADA! The conversation focuses on the pressing housing crisis in Canada, emphasizing the need for affordable housing and innovative construction methods. Ana Bailão, CEO of Build Canada Homes, discusses the importance of collaboration among government, private sector, and non-profits to address the challenges in the housing market. The discussion highlights the urgency of action, the role of skilled workers, and the necessity of a coordinated approach to housing and infrastructure development. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgments 01:35 The Housing Crisis in Canada 04:26 Building Canada's Future: The Role of Labor 07:22 The Need for Affordable Housing 10:00 Innovations in Housing Construction 12:39 The Role of Build Canada Homes 15:17 Collaboration and Partnerships for Housing Solutions 18:14 The Future of Housing in Canada 20:55 Closing Remarks and Call to Action 31:23 The Economic Case for Housing Investment 32:12 Accelerating Housing Development 35:00 Building Partnerships for Housing Solutions 37:51 Vision for Affordable Housing 39:43 Transitional Housing Initiatives 43:44 Personal Commitment to Housing 46:06 Success Metrics for Housing Initiatives 47:42 Creating Complete Communities Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

"I voted for the government, not the budget" We do a deep dive with Green Party Leader Elizabeth May on her decision to vote yes on the budget, her experience negotiating with the Prime Minister and her feelings towards other party leaders! Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Was this budget a fiscal or political move? What can we expect to see impact our lives? Will we be going into a christmas election this year? We break down budget 2025 with Althia Raj , Ottawa Bureau Chief for the Toronto Star. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/ Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!