Dialogue Over Division

• 038: Inside the Bubble: Alise Mills on Political Culture and Commentary | Dialogue Over Division

  In this episode of Dialogue over Division, Alise Mills, a seasoned political strategist and media commentator, joins us to pull back the curtain on Canadian politics and media. We explore her journey through Ottawa’s political corridors, the challenges faced by Western Canadians, and the growing exclusion of competence in leadership roles. We explore the exclusion of competence in modern political leadership, the marginalization of voices outside of Ottawa, and the growing disconnection between everyday Canadians and those in power. Alise reflects on the toxic evolution of legacy media, where partisan spin often replaces honest dialogue, and how political commentary has become more performative than principled. From the uneven media opportunities across the country to the rise of alternative outlets challenging establishment narratives, we unpack the shifting landscape of how Canadians consume and understand politics. We also discuss the personal toll this environment takes on those who work within it—especially women—and the broader implications for our democracy. Alise makes the case for respect in leadership, informed citizen engagement, and the critical need for a new generation of Canadians to step forward with courage, clarity, and purpose. If you’re looking to better understand the dysfunction, malaise, and media fog clouding our national conversation, this is a powerful and revealing episode you won’t want to miss. This conversation doesn’t shy away from the tough questions: Why does Ottawa feel so out of touch? What happened to informed political commentary? And most of all—how do we move forward? If you’ve been feeling the weight of Canada’s current political climate, tune in to this episode!Connect with Alise on X: @DiaryofaFixerConnect with Eva Chipiuk:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

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• 037: Holding Power to Account: Ray McGinnis on Protests, Investigations & Justice

  In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we sit down with Ray McGinnis, an author, educator, and commentator known for his critical examinations of government narratives. Ray has spent years exploring issues of government transparency and public accountability. His books, “Unanswered Questions: What the September Eleventh Families Asked and the 9/11 Commission Ignored” and “Unjustified: The Freedom Convoy, The Emergencies Act, And The Inquiry That Got It Wrong,” scrutinize official investigations and challenge the narratives surrounding pivotal historical events.Together, Eva and Ray discuss the Public Order Emergency Commission (POEC) and its striking parallels to the 9/11 Commission. Ray discusses how the evidence presented at the POEC demonstrated that Freedom Convoy participants remained peaceful, yet the government still invoked the Emergencies Act. They explore the federal court ruling that found the government’s actions to be overreach, the political influences in the Coutts trials, and the broader implications for Canada’s judiciary and democratic institutions. From media portrayals of the Freedom Convoy to the societal impact of government responses to protest movements, this conversation raises crucial questions about accountability, justice, and the integrity of government investigations and actions.At a time when trust in institutions is being challenged, questioning official narratives and demanding transparency isn’t just important—it’s necessary. If governments can so easily overstep their authority without consequence, what does that mean for the future of democracy? Join us for this discussion that underscores the role of citizens in holding governments to account and ensuring our fundamental freedoms are protected.Connect with Ray McGinnis on X: @RayMcGinnis7You can get Ray’s book here: https://a.co/d/2SRhBrnConnect with Eva Chipiuk:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

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• 036: Beyond Division: Finding Common Ground with Sarah Elder

  In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we sit down with Sarah Elder, the founder of Madam Premier, a social enterprise dedicated to increasing women's participation in Canadian politics. The conversation explores the journey of Madam Premier, the challenges and triumphs of advocating for political engagement, and the evolving landscape of political discourse in Canada.We discuss the impact of cancel culture on political participation, the shifting role of political parties, and the importance of fostering inclusive and diverse conversations. The dialogue also examines the complexities of personal beliefs, the consequences of language in politics, and the responsibilities of elected officials in maintaining accountability and trust.Education, historical awareness, and community engagement play a crucial role in shaping public discourse, and we highlight the importance of grace and understanding when addressing differing perspectives. The discussion extends to the escalation of rhetoric into action, the role of hindsight in political accountability, and the ongoing debate around bodily autonomy in public health policies. We also tackle the need for transparency in public health, particularly regarding vaccination policies for children and pregnant women, emphasizing informed consent, safety, and efficacy.More than anything, this discussion underscores the necessity of moving beyond division, fostering open dialogue, and rebuilding trust in our institutions. What do you think? Have you had a conversation with someone you don’t agree with lately? Consider reaching out, asking questions, and truly listening—because meaningful dialogue is how we begin to bridge the divides in our society.Please understand that Sarah is a private citizen, and we commend her for having the courage to come on and have a conversation, knowing that we do not agree. It is one conversation at a time that will allow us to bridge the gaps that have been created.You can learn more about Sarah on X @sarahelder or https://madamepremier.ca/Connect with Eva Chipiuk:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

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• 035: Respectful Disagreement in Politics: A Discussion with Andrew Knack

  In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we sit down with Edmonton City Councillor Andrew Knack to discuss his journey into municipal politics—from an unexpected first run at age 23 to becoming a long-serving advocate for responsive local government. Knack shares his experiences navigating city politics, the challenges of political discourse, and the importance of transparency and accountability among elected officials. The conversation explores the role of media in shaping public perception, the accessibility of municipal representatives, and the growing disengagement of citizens from politics. We discuss the responsibility of elected officials to serve all constituents, not just those who share their views, and the need for real conversations even when perspectives differ. We also tackle pressing issues like urban planning, political partisanship, and bridging the gap between elected officials and the people they represent—ensuring government remains truly connected to the public it serves. A key focus of the discussion is the need for respectful dialogue, particularly in moments of political tension, such as the convoy protests and the responses from elected officials. How do we create space for genuine conversations when we strongly disagree? And how can we rebuild trust between citizens and their representatives in an era of increasing division? Join us for an insightful discussion on the realities of municipal governance, the power of persistence, and why principled leadership matters now more than ever. Tell us what you think—how can we foster meaningful dialogue and rebuild trust between citizens and their representatives?

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• 034: Multiculturalism & Justice Maret Jaks on Confronting Systemic Failures

  In this deeply challenging and thought-provoking episode of Dialogue over Division, we sit down with Maret Jaks to confront the harrowing issue of gang rapes in the UK. Together, we delve into the systemic failures of elected officials and police that have allowed these crimes to persist, examining the complex interplay of multiculturalism, political accountability, and justice.Maret draws on her extensive background in advocating for women’s rights and identifying systemic weaknesses to provide incisive analysis and a passion for critical thinking in this vital conversation. She offers valuable insights into protecting vulnerable individuals while fostering meaningful dialogue about difficult and often uncomfortable topics.We explore the challenges of addressing multiculturalism with respect and nuance. While cultural diversity enriches our societies, it also requires careful balance to ensure the rights and safety of all citizens are upheld. Together, we discuss ways to hold systems accountable without vilifying communities, focusing instead on solutions that prioritize justice, equality, and transparency.The conversation expands beyond the UK, reflecting on the implications these issues have for Canada and other nations. We examine the media’s role in covering—or sometimes neglecting—these crises, the failures of authorities to act, and the justice system’s troubling inconsistencies. Additionally, we discuss how Canada can preserve its values of equality and respect within a multicultural framework.This episode is also a reminder of how extraordinary life in the West can be. Canada, and the West more broadly, offers some of the best places to live because of their foundation on the ideals of equal rights and opportunities for all. We, as citizens of these societies, have a responsibility to uphold these ideals, ensure they are not eroded, and foster a culture where they are respected and reciprocated by all. Above all else, it is imperative that we retain the courage and freedom to call attention to crimes and systemic issues, resisting any pressure to remain silent, or we risk losing everything.Let’s work together to keep it that way. To do so, we must have open and honest conversations, free of shame or fear, and seek to build a brighter future by drawing on all of our cultural strengths. Only by speaking openly and fairly can we find common ground and strengthen our shared commitment to justice and inclusion.To dive deeper into Maret’s insights and the foundation of her concerns, explore her book, Notes from a Blonde: Why This "Anything Goes!" Multiculturalism Has to Go (https://www.amazon.ca/Notes-Blonde-This-Anything-Multiculturalism/dp/1988470072). You can also follow her Substack newsletter, Not Your Donkey, for more thought-provoking discussions: https://maretjaks.substack.com/Connect with Eva Chipiuk:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

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