May 12, 2022 - Palestinian Journalist Killed; Conservatives Debate; Alberta Provincial Police & EMS

Sometimes, there's a day that demands Real Talk go into overtime. This is one of those days. We cover the stories making headlines, and make sure you know what's going on "off the radar," too.

3:14 | Described as a "cultural phenomenon" related to the war in Ukraine, the Saint Javelin brand has quickly become recognized as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance to the Russian invasion. Ryan talks to founder and CEO Christian Borys just moments after he announced a partnership with the World Ukrainian Congress to fund non-lethal military equipment for Ukraine.

Learn more: https://www.saintjavelin.com/ and https://www.ukrainianworldcongress.org/

14:52 | Is Twitter set to become even nastier if Elon Musk's purchase goes through? Christopher Bouzy, founder of BotSentinel.com, explains the role bots and trolls play in poisoning public dialogue. 

32:38 | Speaking of Twitter, our most recent Question of the Week presented by Y Station shows many Real Talkers are cynical (or at least concerned) about the future of the social media platform. Ryan reviews the results of our most recent survey, and tees up the current one (about SCOTUS Roe v. Wade). 

CHIME IN: https://ryanjespersen.com/question-of-the-week

38:18 | The killing of veteran Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh is described as  "deliberate and targeted" by Al Jazeera, the outlet she represented for many years. We review what we know at this point, including reports from journalists who were near Abu Akleh when she was shot, and criticism around "whitewashed" reporting and response from western media outlets and elected representatives. 

47:17 | How much do you know about the political maneuvering happening in your own backyard? Ryan connects with Alberta Mayors Cathy Heron, Janet Jabush, and Trina Jones for an update on a potential Alberta Provincial Police Service, EMS in crisis, and changes to the Municipal Government Act. 

Learn more about work being done by Alberta Municipalities: https://www.abmunis.ca/

1:27:28 | Inspired by his conversation with the Mayors, Ryan shines light on a very personal Twitter thread from a BC-based family doctor, @drherrling. 

1:31:09 | Hours after Conservative Party of Canada leadership candidates squared off in Edmonton, Ryan reviews highlights and themes of the official English language debate. What jumped out at you as you watched Wednesday's showdown? Send us an email: talk@ryanjespersen.com

1:41:14 | Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh was targeted and harassed by self-identified "Freedom Convoy" supporters during a stop in Peterborough, ON. We take a look at public response to this heinous circumstance, including Mr. Singh's message to the public after the fact.