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

I kick off the first Chatter That Matters episode of the new year by sharing my belief in the cosmic choreography of life—how meeting the right people at the right time is shaped by a blend of timing, fate, and intention. This belief perfectly sets the stage for my guest, Jennifer Laidlaw, whose presence and impact are extraordinary.

From her roots on a farm to becoming a champion with horses, Jennifer’s story could fill volumes. Yet, what truly sets her apart is her role as a catalyst for change—a gift that radiates beyond individuals to uplift entire communities and causes.

As we step into 2025, Jennifer brings invaluable wisdom to this conversation. She speaks about the transformative power of rest, curiosity, and maintaining a resilient mind in achieving success and overcoming life’s challenges. Jennifer also opens up about her health struggles, sharing profound lessons on the importance of truly listening—to ourselves and others.

Thank you for tuning in, subscribing, and sharing Chatter That Matters. To RBC, I send the biggest hugs for making this podcast and our focus on positivity and possibility not just a vision but a reality.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Key Takeaways:

1. Cosmic Choreography: Life's timing, fate, and intention are crucial in meeting the right people and opportunities.
2. Clear Intentions: Sincere and clear intentions can attract positive people and opportunities.
3. Jennifer Laidlaw's Journey: From farm life to horse champion and transformative figure, Jennifer's story is about growth and impact.
4. Importance of Rest and Curiosity: Rest and curiosity are essential for achieving success and overcoming resistance.
5. Powerful State of Mind: A strong mindset is crucial for personal and professional growth.
6. Listening to Oneself and Others: Personal health challenges can teach valuable lessons about self-awareness and empathy.
7. Supporting Innovative Thinkers: It's essential to support those who think outside the box.
8. Pursuing Passions: Focusing on what excites and inspires us can lead to significant changes.

In this special edition of Chatter That Matters, which airs today on radio and across my podcast platform, I explore the key branding and societal trends of 2024. I emphasize the importance of authenticity, understanding your audience, and adaptability.

I highlight successful campaigns like the Paris 2024 Olympics, which captivated audiences through unfiltered athlete stories, and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, which underscored the power of compelling narratives. On the other hand, I analyze notable missteps, such as ELF polarizing diversity campaign, 'What a Dick,' to illustrate how brands must balance boldness with sensitivity and maintain transparency during crises.

I also explore artificial intelligence's transformative impact, encouraging you to embrace its potential while being mindful of its risks. Shifting focus to Canada, I address our challenges as a nation, calling for greater voter literacy, fiscal responsibility, and an education system that prepares future generations for an AI-driven world.

Reflecting on the lessons of 2024, I urge Canadians to work together to overcome these challenges and create a brighter future.

Thank you for listening. Thank you to everyone at RBC and our collective belief in sharing stories of positivity and possibility.

Happy New Year. Here's to 2025.

Key Takeaways:

1. Branding Success Stories
   1. Paris 2024 Olympics: Celebrated for exceptional consumer engagement and compelling human stories.
   2. Taylor Swift's Eras Tour
2. Branding Failures:
   • ELF Beauty: Controversial campaign that backfired.
   • Bumble: Misfired billboard campaign.
   • Ticketmaster: Suffered a significant data breach.
   • Jaguar: Faced issues with its rebranding efforts.
   • Kamala Harris: Unsuccessful presidential campaign.
3. Impact of AI:
   • Rapid advancements in AI technology.
   • Potential to disrupt various industries and job markets.
   • Importance of adapting and leveraging AI capabilities.
4. Challenges in Canada:
   • Need for increased voter literacy.
   • Importance of financial accountability.
   • Advocacy for educational reforms to prepare future generations.
5. Call to Action: Encourages a more informed and engaged electorate to ensure a better future for Canada.

I begin this episode reflecting on my sister Anna, whose presence and influence in my life have grown more meaningful with time. Her quiet wisdom has deepened my understanding of connection and purpose, revealing lessons I only truly began to appreciate in recent years.

From there, I introduce Che Marville—a modern-day healer and visionary. Che’s work centers on reconnecting us to the deeper energies that bind us, cutting through the noise of ego, power, and material distractions. She masterfully blends ancient wisdom, the rhythms of nature, and the teachings of shamans, reminding us how profoundly relevant these truths remain in our fast-paced world.

This episode invites you to rethink what truly matters. Che’s message is simple yet powerful: our worth isn’t defined by our accomplishments but by the essence of who we are. She encourages us to nurture meaningful connections, tune into the whispers of the world around us, and rediscover the beauty of simply being, a pathway to a better world that starts with how we see ourselves and each other.

Thank you for listening, subscribing, rating, and sharing Chatter That Matters. You mean the world to me. Have a beautiful holiday season.

Pura Vida.

I was sitting in the green room of a Canadian television station when Sim Seera walked in. She has such positive energy. Since we were both early for our appearances, we used the time to talk and get to know each other. I liked her immediately, and when she told me her story, I knew I had to share it on Chatter That Matters.

I also wanted to share her energy with an audience, so I taped the interview in front of a packed house at the Convenience Industry Council of Canada's annual summit. This unexpected twist added a new and wonderful dimension to our conversation.

This is Sim's story, an immigrant who came to Canada at a young age after losing her parents in a horrific accident. Tragedy will strike again, but it is through the people she meets along the way, both family and strangers, that guide and help her get to where she is today.

As Sim says in the podcast: "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear."