The Strategists

Balance of Power: Legacy, Loss, and a New NDP

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

What happens when a leadership win sparks tension inside the party?

This week on Balance of Power, Shannon Phillips, Leah Ward and Shannon Greer reflect on the legacy of Stephen Lewis, unpack the implications of Avi Lewis’s decisive leadership win, and dig into what it all means for New Democrats across the country.

First: legacy and loss. The panel reflects on Stephen Lewis’ impact on Canadian politics, the NDP movement, and the organizing culture that still shapes campaigns today.

Then: the new leader. What does Avi Lewis’ win signal about where the federal NDP is headed? From shifts in labour relationships to a more populist policy approach, the hosts break down the opportunities, and risks, of this moment.

Plus: Saskatchewan NDP leader Carla Beck joins the show to talk about affordability, energy policy, and the realities of building a government-in-waiting. From a healthcare system pushed to the brink, to rising costs and soaring power bills, and the challenge of connecting policy to people’s day-to-day lives on the Prairies.

“Legacy, Leadership, and What It Means to Be an Effective Opposition”

Welcome to Balance of Power.

Have a comment or idea? email us: suggestionbox@balanceofpowerpod.ca

Guest

MLA Carla Beck, Leader of the Saskatchewan NDP

https://www.ndpcaucus.sk.ca/carlabeck

Guest Host

Shannon Greer

https://www.newwestpublicaffairs.ca/shannon-greer

Mentioned in this episode

Stephen Lewis' Eulogy for Jack Layton

https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/1.1715421

The Stephen Lewis Foundation

https://stephenlewisfoundation.org/

Stephen Lewis GOTV Speech

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2076947419829035

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Episode 4022: Avi Lewis vs Everyone

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:52:47 GMT

Zain Velji, Shannon Phillips, and Stephen Carter talk about Avi Lewis’s leadership win and the immediate political shockwaves across the country. They dive into how provincial NDP leaders are reacting, what this means for party unity, and whether this is a reset or a rupture. They also revisit Alberta gerrymandering from last week’s Patreon exclusive episode and the strategy behind it. Who handled Avi Lewis’s moment the best? What’s actually going on with Alberta’s boundaries fight, and who benefits? And how does Wab Kinew keep getting away with it?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Balance of Power: Liberation in the Streets, Kettleballs in the Sheets

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Is this about rights or strategy?

This week on Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil, Leah Ward and Shannon Phillips talk kettlebells (kettleballs?) before digging into the politics behind the latest waves of anti-trans policy in Canada and what it reveals about how governments choose to fight.

First: the framing. How “parental rights” moved from the margins to the centre of the debate and who it is actually for. Is this persuasion? Base mobilization? Or something else entirely?

Then: the shift from clinical care to political conflict. What happens when decisions that used to sit with doctors, patients, and families get pulled into legislatures, and why that shift matters.

Plus: the limits of the Charter. If governments are willing to test or override legal protections, what does that mean for how these fights play out going forward?

And finally: if the courts are not enough, what options are left and what does an effective political response actually look like?

Strategy, framing, legal limits, and what happens when politics moves faster than institutions.

Welcome to Balance of Power.

Have a comment or idea? email us: suggestionbox@balanceofpowerpod.ca

Correction: Around 51:55 where Leah mentions the Alberta case before the courts, it is actualy the Saskatchewan challenge before the Supreme Court. Alberta had applied as an intervenor. As of recording Alberta's challenge is currently at the appeal stage.

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Episode 4020: Carter Polls Ahead

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 01:13:48 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into the most important poll in Canadian political history. They break down what name ID actually means and what this poll is really measuring. Then they pivot to the real game: golden cats, free Saudi planes, and how political scandals actually get built and stick. What does this poll actually tell us about polling, attention, and political relevance? Why do some stories take off while others need a push to build momentum? And how many defamation suits is producer Haxim quietly preventing?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Balance of Power: The Politics of the Scoop

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Big news.

Serious business.

No press conference.

Just a leak.

This week on Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil, Leah Ward and Shannon Phillips dig into how this actually works.

Government wants something out there.

Not a scrum. Not a pile of questions.

Their version. First.

So it shows up in a column.

A scoop.

Headline already pointed where they want it.

Why do it this way?

What do they get out of it?

And why does it still work?

Then it gets into the weeds.

Carbon pricing.

Credits. Markets.

How it’s supposed to work.

How it actually works.

Shannon Phillips walks through it.

Why some companies are sitting on credits.

Why the price isn’t what people think it is.

And why this is heading for a fight with Ottawa.

Policy is one thing.

The story is another.

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Episode 4018: Zohran McPhillips

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Shannon Phillips and Stephen Carter dive into the latest NDP leadership drama after Avi Lewis finds himself at the centre of a resurfaced clip mocking Shannon’s time as Alberta’s environment minister. What started as an old video quickly turns into a conversation about factional politics inside the NDP, leadership style, and what happens when activists try to run political parties. Is Avi Lewis trying to build a movement—or just impersonate one? Why does the “Zohran model” work in New York but struggle to translate to Canadian politics? And at what point does Carter’s haircut become a national unity issue?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Balance of Power: The Cost of a Political Face

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

How do political campaigns actually win once the voting starts?

This week on Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil, Leah Ward and Shannon Phillips unpack the strategy behind the federal NDP leadership race as voting begins, check in on the budget fight unfolding in Nova Scotia, and talk about the rarely discussed cost of maintaining a political image in the age of constant cameras.

First: the mechanics of a ranked-ballot leadership race. What do campaigns actually do once voting begins? How do second-choice alliances form behind the scenes, and why do turnout and member mobilization matter more than anything else in the final weeks?

Then: Nova Scotia politics. Nova Scotia NDP leader Claudia Chender joins the show to explain how public protests forced Premier Tim Houston’s government to partially reverse controversial budget cuts, and why telling human stories can still change political outcomes.

Plus: the cost of a political face. From wardrobe budgets to cosmetic procedures to the constant scrutiny of cameras and social media, the panel discusses the financial and personal pressures women and gender-diverse politicians face that most voters never see.

Leadership race strategy, opposition politics, and the realities of modern political image.

Welcome to Balance of Power.

Have a comment or idea? email us: suggestionbox@balanceofpowerpod.ca

Guest

MLA Claudia Chender

https://www.claudiachender.ca/

Mentioned in this episode

Left East to West Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/5GLYrK3yElLMVYAML7W1gt

Shannon's Substack

https://shannonphillips.substack.com/p/a-middle-power-but-actually

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Episode 4017: Avi Loses

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:57:11 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips talk about a floor crossing that’s shaking up the political landscape and what it says about where things are heading. They also talk about how the move cost Avi Lewis an endorsement in the federal NDP leadership race and what it might mean for the campaign heading into the final stretch. And will Zain finally solve the growing crisis surrounding his basketball team?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

If you're female and would like to play basketball with Zain Velji for Leader, email playwithzain@zainforleader.ca

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Episode 4016: Is the Alberta NDP’s Message Landing?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 01:38:20 GMT

Episode 4016: Is the Alberta NDP’s Message Landing?

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into the growing conversation around the Alberta NDP’s strategy and whether Naheed Nenshi is breaking through with voters. They talk about polling, leader favourables, opposition tactics, and how an opposition actually builds momentum between elections. Is the NDP stuck in the mid-cycle doldrums or facing a real strategic problem? Should the party focus on energizing the base or targeting swing voters in Calgary? And at what point does Carter start invoicing the NDP?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 4015: How to Fight a Referendum

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 05:46:56 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into Danielle Smith’s referendum gambit and the fight over Alberta’s immigration questions. What’s the smartest way to run a No campaign? Should the NDP lead the fight or stay in the background? And will Carter ever forgive Shannon for ranking Honeycrisp apples number one?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Balance of Power: Immigration with Dr. Bronwyn Bragg

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:30:00 GMT

Are Alberta’s immigration referendum questions actually about immigration, or about politics?

This week on Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil and Leah Ward are joined by Dr. Bronwyn Bragg, a human geographer at the University of Lethbridge who studies labour migration and precarious work.

First, the politics behind Alberta’s proposed immigration referendum. The panel breaks down what the questions actually say and what they imply. How do complicated policy issues become simple political narratives? And what happens when those narratives start shaping public opinion?

Then, the economics beneath the rhetoric. Using Brooks, Alberta and the meatpacking industry as a case study, Bronwyn explains how temporary foreign workers fit into the province’s labour market and why industries that depend on migrant labour are often missing from the political conversation.

Finally, facts, feelings, and the politics of immigration. When economic anxiety and housing pressure collide with political messaging, why do facts often fail to change minds? And what responsibility do political leaders have when public debate moves from policy into identity?

Immigration policy, labour markets, referendum strategy, and a reminder that behind every political talking point are real communities and real people.

Welcome to Balance of Power.

Guest:

Bronwyn Bragg, PhD

https://bronwynbragg.ca

Have a comment or idea? email us: suggestionbox@balanceofpowerpod.ca

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Balance of Power: Touch Grass and Calm Down

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Are we governing for the moment? Or reacting to it?

This week on Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil, Leah Ward and Shannon Phillips break down three political pressure points, and what they reveal about leadership in high-stakes moments.

First: The fallout from the Tumbler Ridge tragedy in B.C. After reporting revealed OpenAI had flagged violent content from the alleged shooter but did not alert authorities, the panel digs into AI regulation, public safety, and the politics of crisis response. How fast can governments realistically move? And when international media drives the story, does that change the pressure on Ottawa?

Then: Alberta’s referendum fight. With multiple groups organizing against separatism, and others pushing citizen initiatives of their own, is decentralized activism a strength or a liability? What does effective organizing actually look like before the writ drops?

Plus: a new segment, The Opinionati. When progressive columnists publicly question Naheed Nenshi’s leadership, what happens inside caucus? Is this a real warning sign — or just the hyper-engaged political class talking to itself? And if there is a pivot coming, what would it look like?

AI, organizing, narrative control, and a reminder that sometimes the most strategic move is to touch grass and calm down.

Welcome to Balance of Power.

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Episode 4014: I Have Nothing to Offer

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:50:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips talk about whether Mark Carney should go early, how opposition parties actually win a legislative session, and why Danielle Smith’s referendum fight might be exactly the battlefield the ANDP has to choose. Should Carney pull the trigger now? Is floor crossing “fine” when Pierre says it is? And how different would the trajectory of the nation be if Shannon had paid attention in those Olympic bid meetings?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 4013: Use All of It or Use None - Teaser

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 03:06:09 GMT

In this Patreon teaser, Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into Danielle Smith’s nine question referendum gambit and the politics of putting Alberta on the ballot. Is this a distraction, or the agenda? How are the questions framed to win? And will Carter ever see his daughter again?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 4012: Skill Issue

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into Jeneroux’s decision to spend less time with his family by crossing the floor to the Liberals, rogue MP Jamil Jivani, and Danielle Smith’s looming televised address. Is Mark Carney quietly outplaying everyone? Is Poilievre losing control of his caucus? And what exactly is a banana plus one?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Balance of Power: TV Dad vs YouTube Bro

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMT

The Strategists Media Corporation, in association with The Strategists Podcast Network, presents Balance of Power, a new series offering a fresh lens on the forces shaping Canada’s future.

Are we misreading the political moment?

This week, Annalise is away and Shannon Phillips and Leah Ward are joined by pollster and data scientist Kyla Ronellenfitsch, President of Relay Strategies, to cut through three dominant narratives: Alberta separatism, immigration backlash, and the supposed rightward shift among young voters.

First: new reporting reveals Alberta separatist organizers meeting with officials at the U.S. State Department. How seriously should we take the movement? And what happens if it collides with Trump-era trade politics?

Then: immigration. Is public concern rooted in xenophobia, the pace and direction of recent policy, economic anxiety, or all three? The panel examines what the data shows, why “out of control” has become such a powerful frame, and whether progressives may be reinforcing the very fears they’re trying to counter.

Plus: are Gen Z voters really drifting right? Kyla shares research challenging the “young men gone conservative” narrative and introduces a revealing contrast in Canadian politics: TV Dad vs YouTube Bro.

Finally: Pierre Poilievre’s rough week, polarizing favourables, and what happens when a campaign narrative flips.

Welcome to Balance of Power.

Guest:

Kyla Ronellenfitsch, President of Relay Strategies

Substack: relaywithkyla.substack.com

Have a comment or idea? email us: suggestionbox@balanceofpowerpod.ca

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Episode 4011: The Everyman Plus - Teaser

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:30:00 GMT

In this Patreon teaser, Stephen Carter and Zain Velji dive into whether looks still shape political destiny, unpack the machinery of campaign makeovers, and debate what “electable” means in 2026. They also turn to the quieter question of who really runs campaigns, and who gets paid to do it. Do voters want someone who looks like them, or someone just a notch better? Has the definition of electability changed? And did Shannon just seize the means of podcast production?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps Carter in line.

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Balance of Power: An Orgy of Bribery

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:30:00 GMT

The Strategists Media Corporation, in association with The Strategists Podcast Network, presents Balance of Power, a new series offering a fresh lens on the forces shaping Canada’s future.

Is Alberta separation gaining ground, and can it be stopped?

In the debut episode of Balance of Power, Annalise Klingbeil, Leah Ward and Shannon Phillips unpack new polling showing 29% of Albertans would vote to leave Canada, and why that number could shift quickly in a referendum. They debate the messaging war behind separatism, the silence from business leaders, and what a Brexit-style shock could mean for the province.

Plus: what an Edmonton community league on the brink of closure reveals about volunteer burnout, third spaces, and the state of democratic participation.

And finally, Mark Carney’s new national auto strategy — billions in public money, shifting EV rules, and a fundamental question: if companies want to sell cars in Canada, should they be required to build them here?

Welcome to Balance of Power.

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Episode 1908: Mr. Jivani Goes to Washington

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:44:36 GMT

Shannon Phillips and Stephen Carter do a weekly separatist checkup and debate what responsibility political commentators, operatives, and public figures have in moments like this. From there the conversation turns south, literally, as they examine Jamil Jivani’s trip to Washington. Will there be a separation referendum regardless of how the signature drive ends? What did Jamil hope to accomplish by going rogue? And which halftime show did Carter actually watch?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Ministry of Podcasts: Episode 5

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Ministry of Podcasts: Episode 5

Be it resolved that the Minister of Podcasts, Stephen Carter, together with the Chair of Oral Questions, Zain Velji, do hereby call this sitting of The Ministry of Podcasts to order, notwithstanding heckling from the floor or ambient jackhammering.

Be it further resolved that the House shall receive evidence from the duly sworn Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary, Corey Hogan, on matters including but not limited to:

The structural failure of Question Period and why 35 seconds is enough time for a slogan but not an answer,

The strange experience of attending a Conservative convention as a Liberal observer,

The risks of pretending separatism is just another wedge issue that will go away,

And the difference between winning the moment and accidentally torching the country.

And be it further noted that testimony was provided without central messaging, written talking points, or permission from anyone in authority, and was instead governed by lived experience, and a dangerous amount of strategic clarity.

Therefore be it finally resolved that this episode, while lacking a formal agenda, shall be entered into the record as a cautionary tale, a media briefing, and a reminder that short-term tactics age quickly, but constitutional consequences do not.

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Episode 1907: Cucks Who Don't Like It

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:17:26 GMT

Shannon Phillips and Stephen Carter discuss a Conservative movement that has decided it will not pivot, will not moderate, and absolutely does not care who hates it for that choice. What does it mean when a party re-ups the leader voters say they don't like, even after winning the argument on the issues? Is wrapping yourself in the flag a real political move or just vibes? And did Stephen Carter get something right even with his brain frozen? Stick around to the end to find out.

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1906: Treason? Or Treason-Adjacent? - Teaser

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 23:34:03 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips discuss Alberta separatism going international after reporting reveals meetings with U.S. officials, and what the different levels of government can, and shouldn't, do in response. How does a fringe movement become a foreign policy problem? What's the right move when separatist politics go too far? And does a producer organizing events without asking the hosts count as treason?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1905: The Federal Stress Test

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:19:27 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips discuss a federal stress test unfolding on two fronts: The killing of a Minneapolis man by federal immigration agents and open U.S. interference in Alberta's separatism debate. What happens when American political actors start shaping domestic politics? Why isn't there a more serious political pushback in the US after another fatal federal law enforcement shooting? And is anyone even pretending this is normal anymore?

Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Audio excerpt from "Unless You Are Free" by Ani DiFranco & Utah Phillips (Fellow Workers, Righteous Babe Records)

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Episode 1903: A New World Order, Whether We Like It or Not

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:07:11 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into Canada’s new world order as Mark Carney cuts a landmark trade deal with China and openly acknowledges that Washington is no longer a reliable partner. Stephen and Shannon break down what all of this means for Alberta separatism, NATO, and the future of Canadian sovereignty. Can Canada expand trade without selling out workers and Ontario auto jobs? Are Chinese EVs actually "spy cars," or is America now the bigger security risk? And if Carter is convinced he’ll need his bug-out plan, is that the strongest argument that we won’t? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1902: When a Petition Isn't a Movement

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:06:45 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dig into Alberta's latest separatist referendum push and ask the two questions that actually matter: is it inevitable, and is it likely? They break down the math behind the new 177,000-signature threshold, the organizational reality facing separatist groups, and why last summer's "Forever Canadian" petition may have been lightning in a bottle rather than a new normal.

What political price does the UCP pay for flirting with separatism? Do pro-Canada forces need to organize again, or is ignoring the petition the smartest strategy? And if this thing somehow makes it to a referendum, which of the three hosts is least emotionally prepared to live through the campaign without yelling at strangers on the internet? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1901: Holiday Spectacular

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:46:30 GMT

Check the Orthodox Boxing Day deals, lower your expectations accordingly, and get ready as The Strategists unpack the year that was in the Flair Airlines* Better Late Than Never Holiday Spectacular. Stephen Carter, Shannon Phillips, and Annalise Klingbeil try to make sense of the last year in politics. From delayed responses and rare perfect landings to middle-seat nightmares, political rebirths and obituaries, Zain Velji keeps everybody in line.

*not our sponsor

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Episode 1899: Schulz Resigns | What Does This Mean for Unity?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 19:46:09 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips talk about Rebecca Schulz’s sudden resignation from cabinet and what it signals about unity inside the UCP, and the country. They dive into the subtext of the resignation letter, whether this is about an oncoming referendum or possibly even an early election. Is this actually a problem for Danielle Smith or just another data point in a noisy political moment? What should we actually take from the Alberta Next panel? Signal? Noise? Or a roadmap to bigger trouble? And will Carter’s MP return his calls about getting his toilet to flush? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Ministry of Podcasts: Episode 4

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Be it resolved that the Minister of Podcasts, Stephen Carter, together with the Chair of Oral Questions, Zain Velji, do convene this sitting of The Ministry of Podcasts.

Be it further resolved that the House shall hear testimony from the sworn Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary, Corey Hogan, on matters pertaining to:

The unintended lifecycle of political content in the outrage economy,

The perils of attempting a pipeline gotcha with a motion that solves nothing,

The difficulty of separating fact from fiction in a town that runs almost entirely on rumour,

And the strategic advantage of naming the opposition play instead of reacting to it.

Therefore be it finally resolved that this episode, having no formal agenda but much informal candour, stands as both a record of proceedings and an acknowledgement that a win is a win, even when it arrives with just 7.8% of the vote.

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Episode 1898: Hypothetical Squared - Teaser

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:58:43 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dig into the Conservatives' pipeline motion, the Liberal response, and why Ottawa is spending its time debating make-believe infrastructure. What's the real strategy behind a motion about a pipeline that doesn't exist? How should the Liberals handle a fight built entirely on hypotheticals? And is Manitoba ready for the unique brand of chaos that follows Carter everywhere? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1897: Press Galleries, Polarization, and the Slow Death of Joy in Politics

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 20:36:43 GMT

Zain Velji and Shannon Phillips dive into the weird, wonderful world of press-gallery comedy, from Don Davies’ viral self-roast to Pierre Poilievre’s carefully staged moment. How does the Press Gallery dinner work and does it still matter? What does "joyful negativity" look like in practice? And does the lack of "white noise" make the podcast any easier to listen to? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1886: Understanding of Memorandum - Teaser

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:08:45 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into the generational, transformative MOU between the Canada and Alberta. They explain what it actually means, what it definitely doesn’t, and why everyone involved is already gaming out the best and worst case scenarios. Is everyone suddenly buying pipelines? Who actually gained (and who got played)? And how up to date is Carter on the latest trends? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1893½: Strategists Overtime at Knox United (LIVE)

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 22:08:20 GMT

The Strategists go live with His Worship, Jeromy Farkas, Mayor of Calgary, for a chaotic, surprisingly earnest, and occasionally ill-advised deep dive into how he won, what his plans are and how heavy the chains of office really are. Then the gang breaks into a mini-episode of Ministry of Podcasts with MP Corey Hogan to talk all things budget and floor crossing. Finally, Zain Velji, as always lets YOU pick the questions and keeps everybody in line in our audience questions segment.

Originally recorded on November 12th, 2025

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Episode 1895: Much Fast

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:15:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips sort another chaotic week of Canadian politics into Take, Tweak or Trash. Are backbench politicians now influencers? What's the difference between economic and electoral politics? And how well can Zain host the show with half of his mouth frozen from the dentist? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1893: God Damnit: The 9 Lives Of Stephen Carter

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:17:07 GMT

The Strategists are LIVE to hold a funeral for The Calgary Party, and to hold Stephen Carter accountable. Annalise Klingbeil and Shannon Phillips are joined by returning host Corey Hogan to dissect the 2025 Calgary municipal election. Is money still the currency of politics? Can you catch a wave you insist was definitely there but somehow nobody else saw? And is that really a live organist playing chords every time someone curses? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1892: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Pierre

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:41:09 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips brace themselves for an old-school strategy session. What should Pierre Poilievre be doing over the next two months? Two years? And how does Zain expect anyone to know when the liveshow is if he won't promote it?! Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Get your live show tickets now!

http://strategistslive.show

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Episode 1891: Matt Has Left the Chat

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:42:03 GMT

Shannon and Stephen start discussing the budget when they are interrupted by BREAKING NEWS. What does this mean for the various parties in the house? What's the best strategy if you're crossing the floor, or receiving a crosser? And at this rate will Shannon have any burns left for Carter at the live show? Zain Velji throws the script out the window and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1890: Clause and Effect

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:50:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips examine the fallout a week after Alberta teachers were forced back to work using the notwithstanding clause. Is the government paying a price for suspending teachers' rights? Have opposing parties missed their chance to push back? And what actually IS the website to buy tickets for the upcoming live show? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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The Strategists Live!

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 03:50:23 GMT

Get ready for the greatest live show on earth! The Strategists Live! comes to Knox United Church, Calgary on November 12th. Tickets at http://strategistslive.show/

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Episode 1889: Good Faith

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:35:00 GMT

Shannon Phillips and Stephen Carter dig into breaking news and unpack the Alberta Government’s plan to force teachers back to work. What should the strategic response look like from the opposition, educators, and the broader public service? How do you mobilize one of the province’s last truly connected social networks? And is Carter actually serious about putting on a live show? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1888: An Election About Nothing?

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:05:00 GMT

Zain Velji and Annalise Klingbeil dive deep into Calgary's 2025 municipal election just days before voters head to the polls. Why does this race feels so boring despite tight polling? What happens when engaged insiders can't even figure out who to vote for? And is this really a "Seinfeld election" about nothing? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1887: Mild Ambition

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 02:20:00 GMT

Chris Henderson finally unmutes his mic to do a deep dive on the surprisingly competitive Edmonton mayoral election. Why could this race be the closest one in 30 years? What happens when there's no clear ballot question and voters tune in at the last minute? And how did a dentist's cringe rap video evolve into a legitimate protest campaign? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1886: Talking Turkey

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:10:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips carve into the political topics that should have dominated Thanksgiving dinner - if they were brought up at all. How do you get people to pay attention to municipal politics? What did the teachers and the government need from families gathering over the weekend? And will Carter double-down on his prediction for the Forever Canadian campaign like he doubled down on those mashed potatoes? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1884: Labour Pains

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:15:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips discuss labour unrest across the country. Will the Alberta teachers' strike strategy win public sympathy? Is the government applying the right strategy for dealing with CUPW and the postal workers? And did Stephen Carter REALLY hurt his back if he's not hopped up on painkillers? Also included are PATREON EXCLUSIVE segments on the state of the municipal elections in Edmonton and Calgary and some initial analysis on the start of the federal NDP leadership race. Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Ministry of Podcasts: Episode 2

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:35:00 GMT

Be it resolved that the Minister of Podcasts, Stephen Carter, together with the Chair of Oral Questions, Zain Velji, do convene this sitting of The Ministry of Podcasts.

Be it further resolved that the House shall hear testimony from the newly sworn Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary, Corey Hogan, on matters pertaining to:

The eternal balance between message discipline and authentic self,

The trials of assembling IKEA furniture between Question Periods,

The lonely burden of representation,

And the etiquette of grocery shopping in a baseball cap.

Therefore be it finally resolved that this episode, having no formal agenda but much informal candour, stands as both a record of proceedings and a cautionary tale for any who would confuse a parliamentary headset with a proper microphone.

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Episode 1883: Book Bans, Booze, and Bad Strategy - Teaser

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 02:52:28 GMT

Enjoy this teaser of patreon episode 1883. Carter and Shannon sort a week’s worth of Canadian politics into fine, fabulous, or f--ked. Was Mark Carney’s invite to a Project 2025 architect 4D chess or pure arrogance? Did Doug Ford save jobs or just waste good whiskey? Is Edmonton’s hottest new party - the Edmonton Accelerants - just a smoldering garbage pile? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1882: Forever Carter

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:45:00 GMT

Shannon Phillips and Stephen Carter dive into Alberta's "Forever Canada" petition campaign. Can Thomas Lukaszuk actually collect 294,000 signatures to keep Alberta in Canada? Should opposition parties work within grassroots campaigns or build their own parallel structures? And how many signatures can one person realistically gather in a day without violating the laws of physics? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1881: Flying the (not so) Friendly Skies

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 14:55:00 GMT

Shannon Philips and Stephen Carter unpack the recent Air Canada labour issues. What can the labour movement learn from CUPE's apparent success? Was the government justified in getting involved? And who is going to scrape Carter off the mat after Shannon's done beating him into a pulp? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody but Shannon in line.

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The World Famous Annalise and Carter Show: Episode 3

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 01:54:56 GMT

Step right up to The World Famous Annalise and Carter Show, the three-ring political circus you didn’t know you needed. In the municipal ring, Stephen Carter spins three slates in the air, keeping each campaign teetering but never tumbling. Over in the federal ring, Canada’s trade spat with Trump transforms into a roaring grassroots rally. And in the provincial ring, Carter unleashes a fiery high-wire takedown of the Alberta NDP’s fumbles - all while Annalise, the unflappable ringmaster, keeps the whole spectacular from collapsing into chaos.

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Episode 1880: Engagement Drought

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Zain Velji discuss just how hard it is to get attention in the summer months before discussing daddy Carney's deal deadline. Is anyone tuned in to the political scene right now? What happens if Carney doesn't get a deal by August 1? And when did Zain start letting Carter ask questions? Zain Velji, as always, picks (most of) the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1879: The Coldplay Affair

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 03:35:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips dive into a dumpster fire of dumpster fires and try to extinguish what they can. How bad are competing leadership reviews. Is it possible to fix the Alberta Next panels? And does Carter actually know any Coldplay songs? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1877: Zombie Files

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 23:50:00 GMT

Stephen Carter and Shannon Phillips tackle the issues that just won't die. What's next for the Alberta Next panel? Can the PC party rise from the dead? And who wears sneakers to a Stampede event? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Ministry of Podcasts: Episode 1

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:06:00 GMT

Stephen Carter, as Minister of Podcasts gathers Zain Velji and Corey Hogan to convene the Ministry of Podcasts for the first time. Zain grills the Member from Calgary Confederation on everything from what really goes on in the House, to what the inflight entertainment options are on "the people's plane". Get ready to hear about Parliament like you never have before!

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Episode 1876: LastMealAtSwiss.ca

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 22:40:00 GMT

Zain Velji and Stephen Carter do something they swore they would never do: dive into the listener mailbag. They answer your questions about politics, political strategy, and most importantly, Zain's love of Swiss Chalet. This time you pick the questions, and nobody is keeping anybody in line.

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Episode 1875: Toddler in a Grocery Store

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Shannon Philips and Stephen Carter dive into the biggest story happening right now, the Drake/Kendrick/Jagmeet feud. Then they fill time with a few with some minor issues like the G7 and Pierre Poilievre's upcoming leadership review. How is Carney doing at the G7? What would be some strategies to help or hurt Poilievre's leadership prospects? And what is SZA? A band? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1874: Get Out Your Adderall

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:30:00 GMT

Shannon Philips and Stephen Carter talk relationships and public falling-outs. How do you 'win' a political break-up? What's the best way forward after it's all over? And has there ever been an episode more suited to Carter's experiences? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1873: White Elephant

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:27:23 GMT

Shannon Philips and Stephen Carter talk about the results of the highly anticipated First Ministers' Meeting. Is the lack of a project list a problem or an asset for Carney? Are there any regions at risk of just being swept along in all the nation-building fever? And should the Government of Canada open an OnlyFans for all their FMM content? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1870: Holding hands in the dark

Fri, 23 May 2025 23:38:54 GMT

Shannon Phillips joins Stephen Carter to discuss the logistics and strategy behind mounting an effective opposition to the Alberta separation question. Who should be organizing, and how should they be doing it? What voices need to be involved, and what should they be saying? And how many tall foreheads does it take to screw in a lightbulb? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1869: The World Famous Annalise and Carter Show

Tue, 20 May 2025 13:50:33 GMT

Annalise Klingbeil and Stephen Carter kick off their world famous podcast series (hosted by The Strategists Podcast Network). They begin by exploring the wonders of the outdoors before trying to explain what exactly IS going on in Alberta. Is the age of scandal over? How serious is the separatist threat? And is Carter really going to be the new CFO of The Strategists Media Corporation? Annalise asks questions, except when Carter decides to turn the tables and ask some of his own.

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Episode 1868: How to Bidet a Cabinet

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:01:14 GMT

Stephen Carter and Zain Velji flush out the latest on Mark Carney’s cabinet unveiling. Get ready for a stream of insights on Alberta’s political expectations. How refreshing does this new cabinet need to be? Do the Liberals need to spray away all traces of the previous government? And will Carter ever stay in a different hotel ever again? Annalise Klingbeil asks questions, Zain and Carter do their best to dodge.

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Episode 1867: Capitulation and separation

Wed, 07 May 2025 04:47:38 GMT

Stephen Carter and Zain Velji discuss Mark Carney's transformative visit to the White House. Then it's off to tackle issues closer to home in Alberta. What's the final grade on Carney's performance? What's the strategy behind stoking the separatist sentiment in Alberta. And will anyone pay Carter's speaking fee again after visiting invitecartertospeak.com? Annalise Klingbeil picks the questions, and sometimes even gets answers.

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Episode 1866: MP Hogan

Sat, 03 May 2025 03:38:55 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter face their toughest accountability session ever as they dissect the strategy behind the campaign for one Corey Hogan. They go over what worked (everything) and what didn't (nothing) and get into lessons learned along the way. Was this the perfect campaign? Is ground game truly dead? Is Carter actually good at his job? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1865: April Fools!

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:19:56 GMT

Stephen Carter and Zain Velji finally expose the truth behind the Corey Hogan campaign. The gang discusses how "star" candidates affect volunteer turnout, before diving into a retrospective on the national campaigns. What were the highlights? What were the lowlights? Any why does Zain have such a soft spot for Jagmeet? Corey isn't getting any sleep tonight, but Annalise is here to ask questions and maybe get answers.

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Episode 1863: Going soft

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 04:48:37 GMT

Zain Velji and Stephen Carter talk political ads, platforms, and predictions. With more unsolicited advice for the campaigns than you can shake a Kory Teneycke at. Are party platforms still relevant? Why are everyone's ads so bad right now? And should you contact your doctor if the urge to vote conservative lasts more than 4 hours? Annalise does her best, but Zain and Carter have other ideas.

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Episode 1861: Dirty deeds

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:34:22 GMT

Zain Velji and Stephen Carter discuss "Buttongate" and how the parties should handle it. Then it's on to talking about recent polling developments before ending off on debate prep for the leaders. Are campaign "War Rooms" still relevant? How excited should people get if the polls tighten? And what skulduggery is Carter saving for his memoirs? Corey Hogan is out knocking on doors in the dead of night. Zain and Stephen feed the content machine as best they can.

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Episode 1859: Accountability isn't just a river in Egypt

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:13:24 GMT

Zain Velji and Stephen Carter discuss Stephen's recent campaign loss in the Vancouver by-election before turning attention to the federal election campaign. Oh, wait - Corey is here too? For the start? Well, he probably wants something. Let's see what it is. Maybe he'll stick around to hear about how Carter lost.

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Episode 1857: Candidate Hogan

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:31:35 GMT

Corey Hogan is allegedly the new Liberal candidate in Calgary Confederation. Up is down, down is up. Zain and Stephen assemble to ask if this happened, how this happened, and to create as much chaos as possible.

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Episode 1856: Boxed out

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:44:18 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter discuss whether the ballot question is set, if public criticisms of the Conservative campaign are sincerely well intentioned, and how Jagmeet Singh can get back into the game. Is affordability doomed to be just one bullet under a bigger issue called "Trump"? Can early public discussion about campaign challenges strengthen a campaign? And why is Zain not buying domains somehow more dangerous than Zain buying domains? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1854: Game changer

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 20:38:35 GMT

No time to wait for Stephen Carter. Zain and Corey assemble to talk about Pierre Poilievre's big swing.

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Episode 1853: An Election For A Change

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:31:47 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the launch of the federal election, asking whether campaigns matter at all before settling into the Conservative and Liberal messages, star candidates and Danielle Smith's March surprise. Are the Conservatives leading with their chin? What kind of amnesia do Canadians need to feel like the Liberals represent change? And when did Mike Myers and Stephen Carter get so old? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1852: Everywhere a sign

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:15:03 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about Prime Minister Mark Carney's swearing in and the inevitable federal election. What does the Cabinet tell us about where the Liberals are going? Can Canadians be sold on the virtues of non-partisanship? With a week to go until a federal election - are Canadians ready? And what sub-basement apartment will Stephen Carter call in from next? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1850: Ruby Dhalla's Money

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:55:03 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the conclusion of the Liberal leadership race and what's next for Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre. What lessons can be learned from the leadership announcement event? Should Carney immediately call an election? Has Pierre Poilievre found his line of attack? And should Zain be concerned about how many people want to host The Strategists? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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You The People Article 11: High Tariffs and Misdemeanors

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:50:04 GMT

Stephen Carter, Corey Hogan talk about the start of Trump's 25% tariffs against Canada and the end of Trump's support for Ukraine's defensive war against Russia. Washington D.C. guest stars as a place Stephen and Corey went on a Segway tour in 2015.

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Episode 4011: Bananas

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:55:11 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the French language Liberal Party of Canada leadership debate before turning their attention to Trump's new tariff threats, Poilievre's pivot (?) and Ruby Dhalla's disqualification. What should the candidates do differently in Tuesday's English language debate? Is Donald Trump the President who cried "tariff"? And why didn't Carney reply to the moderator by saying "I don't know, Pierre, how much does a hack question cost at the hack question store?" Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1848H: Mostly just us - the proroguement of Corey Hogan

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:17:03 GMT

It’s Zain Velji and Stephen Carter diving into all things strategy—without Corey to weigh them down, they’re free to live out the true spirit of the podcast. We cover Trump, the Liberals, Axe the Tax, Canada First, Carney, Gould, Crombie, and more—plus an insensitive sponsor ad and doxxing of family members.

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Episode 1848G: Stephen and Corey present Carter and Hogan in “S--t on a stick”

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 04:41:59 GMT

Stephen Carter and Corey Hogan talk about the allegations of major scandal at Alberta Health Services. What's to be made of Smith's statement on the matter? What's to be made of the NDP response? Can Carter avoid "false, baseless and defamatory" commentary? Zain Velji isn't here and neither is Annalise Klingbeil. Giddy up.

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Episode 1848F: Four Flags

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 04:59:54 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about America announcing tariffs and Canada announcing retaliation. How did the Prime Minister do? What do Poilievre, Smith and the Liberal leadership candidates need to do now? What kind of consensus needs to be built? And do you think Carter is going to try to undercut Hogan by offering to run the campaign for $39 million a month? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1848E: A tight 102 minutes on the Liberal leadership brands

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:48:47 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about recent developments in liberal leadership politics before diving deep into the brands of the six candidates. Who's got the best handle on their brand? What even makes a good political brand? And did you take the under on last week's over/under question? We hope so. Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

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Episode 1848D: Incredible hosting opportunity, inquire within

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:25:14 GMT

PATREON EXCLUSIVE. Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the strategy of responding to continued Trump threats, how (or if) the Liberal candidates should navigate the same, how (or if) the Liberal candidates should separate from Trudeau and much more. Has Danielle Smith been put in a box of her own making by Trump declaring he doesn't need Canadian oil? Is hope good for the Liberals - even if it's delusional? And over/under on 2.5, how many Liberal leadership candidates are going to take up this once-in-a-lifetime hosting opportunity? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1848A: Shutter Island

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:06:30 GMT

PATREON EXCLUSIVE. Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the First Minister's Conference and the consensus that wasn't. Will Danielle Smith's position be a winner in Alberta? If you're Smith, Nenshi, Ford or Trudeau - what do you do now? And do we think with 10 more minutes we could have gotten Stephen Carter to realize the awful truth about his past? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1847: Peacocking

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 05:10:47 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about Danielle Smith meeting Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago and the first days of the Liberal Party of Canada leadership campaign. Is it good for Smith that she got a meeting with Trump - or bad for Canada? Why are the Liberal leadership hopefuls waiting to launch their campaigns when there's such a compressed time frame? And should Zain and Corey have pushed Stephen to name two more names? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1845: Holiday Spectacular

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 06:26:54 GMT

Get your novelty New Year's Tie out of that box in the garage and pretend it's going to all be different this year because it's time again for The Strategists to unpack the year that was in their annual Holiday Spectacular. Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the best and the worst of the year, write political obituaries and talk about the year-to-come in this regular-length special. In the commercial spirit of the season, our sponsor* tells us exactly what to do while Zain Velji keeps everybody in line.

*not our sponsor

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Episode 1844: What The Liberals Should Do

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 21:18:39 GMT

PATREON EXCLUSIVE. Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the race for the race - and the increasingly public debate about how the Liberals should set the rules for the Leadership Contest to come. Are letters from Calgary MP George Chahal and former senior staffer Gerry Butts signs that the race has already begun? How do you structure a contest when you might be in the polls in a month and still set your party up for success? With the Liberals so down in the polls, why should anyone care? And can you imagine the parallel universe episode where Stephen Carter's phone doesn't ring? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1843: Electile Dysfunction

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 21:56:58 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk Singh's NDP revoking confidence, the threat of a spring election and what all the parties should be doing right now - plus a rundown of Trump's expansionist ambitions and Rep. Matt Gaetz' crimes and near-crimes. Should Pierre Poilievre be "constrained by the reality of the situation"? What does it even mean to be an ally of the United States in 2024? And in your head, is Zain's moustache as NC-17 as it is in real life? It isn't. Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1841: EMERGENCY PODCAST - A potentially pointless review of a moment of maximum chaos

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 21:46:00 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter convene to talk about Chrystia Freeland's bombshell resignation as Canada's Finance Minister - just hours before she was to present the Fall Economic Statement. Did Trudeau do this to himself? What are the rumours flowing through Ottawa right now? And if Zain won an Oscar, can we agree it would be for a technical category and not acting? Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 933: All politics is local

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 04:48:10 GMT

Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter talk about the Dairy Queen on Centre Street. Zain Velji, as always, picks the questions and keeps everybody in line.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.