In this week's episode, titled Truth Seeker, we explore the vital and fascinating realm of investigative journalism through the perspective of Rob Cribb. Rob has received both national and international reporting awards for his investigations into offshore tax evasion, child exploitation, human trafficking, dangerous doctors, environmental hazards, and public safety. He was a member of the international reporting team that produced the Pulitzer Prize-winning Panama Papers investigation in 2017.

You will also gain insight into the emotional toll of 24/7 journalism, which often lasts months and the risks to those who expose what others deliberately conceal in the shadows.

Rob Cribb is also the founder and director of the Investigative Journalism Bureau, an impact-driven newsroom based at the University of Toronto that unites senior journalists, academics, students, and media organizations to share thoroughly reported stories in the public interest. The bureau is founded on a decade of experimenting with a model that uncovers powerful new truths while training the next generation of investigative reporters. This pioneering work has led to dozens of significant investigations published on newspaper front pages, television screens, and podcast streams that have enlightened, informed, and influenced public policy.

To learn more about the Investigative Journalism Bureau, visit https://ijb.utoronto.ca

In this special episode of Chatter That Matters, I bring together three of Canada's brightest minds: Arlene Dickinson, Jon Love, and Dany Assaf. Recorded live at Excellence Canada's 40th anniversary, weeks before Trudeau's resignation and Trump's inauguration, this conversation dives deep into the urgent need to reclaim Canada's prosperity.

• Historical Context and Current Challenges:

  I kick off the episode by reminiscing about Canada's Centennial year and our country's prowess, then contrasting it with today's societal and economic struggles.

• Personal Journeys:

  Arlene Dickinson shares an emotional and empowering story of overcoming adversity to build a successful entrepreneurial career.

  "I held on to this idea that I could help create a better future for this country," says Arlene Dickinson.

• Youth and Entrepreneurial Spirit:

  The episode explores whether today's young Canadians still believe that hard work guarantees success and discusses the role of social media in shaping perceptions.

• Political and Economic Landscape:

  Jon Love and Dany Assaf dissect Canada's current economic policies and discuss the need for a 'prosperity agenda.'

  "Do we, as a collective, think that growing the pie is important?" asks Jon Love.

  “Nothing starts without believing in something because it softens all the edges. The promise that if you do the right things, it’s most probable you’ll be successful and live the Canadian dream—that’s the belief we need to reclaim

The conversations emphasize the need for strategic governance, embracing innovation, and fostering an inclusive and entrepreneurial spirit. Dany Assaf reflects on the power of belief and community trust, while Jon Love underscores the importance of creating opportunities for broad-based economic growth. Arlene Dickinson pushes for effective policies that support small businesses and urges Canadians to celebrate entrepreneurial success.

This episode serves as a rallying cry for Canadians to unite for a prosperous future. It's a treasure trove of wisdom for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike. Join us to discover how Canada can reclaim its place as a land of opportunity and innovation.

"It’s so easy to become vulnerable online. Your face and name aren’t involved; you can hide behind a user name, an avatar."

I begin this powerful and profoundly moving episode of Chatter That Matters by sharing a personal story of narrowly escaping a predator during my youth, setting the stage for a meaningful conversation about online safety. I then invite my guest, Harrison Haynes, a brave young advocate who recounts his harrowing experience of being manipulated by an online predator as a teenager. He reveals the emotional toll, the subtle manipulative tactics used, and how this experience impacted his family and personal growth.

Harrison’s story is a testament to resilience. He shares his journey to forgiveness, the importance of disconnecting from technology, and his mission to help others navigate the dangers of the digital world. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health, self-worth and community in the face of the challenges posed by social media and online predators.

Later in the episode, Margot Denomme, a former Crown Attorney with twenty-five years of front-line experience and the author of The Family Smartphone Guide, joins the show. Margot offers practical advice for parents on navigating the digital landscape safely, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, digital literacy, and the concept of a “family smartphone contract.”

Key Takeaways:

1. The Reality of Online Predators: Harrison sheds light on the manipulative tactics predators use to lure vulnerable youth and the devastating consequences.

2. The Power of Community: Despite his painful journey, Harrison found healing through forgiveness and introspection, advocating for a life less tethered to technology.

3. Creating Safe Digital Spaces: Margot Denomme provides parents with actionable tips to protect their children from online dangers, including delaying smartphone access and fostering self-esteem.

4. A Call to Awareness: Harrison and Margot stress the need for open dialogue between parents and children about digital safety, mental health, and the risks of an unfiltered online world.

To connect with Harrison Haynes, info@wiredhuman.org