CONNECT with Sarah Crosbie

About 76 per cent of Albertans voted to remain part of Canada, but what does the referendum result really tell us about the province’s political landscape? David Akin, Chief Political Correspondent and Ottawa Bureau Chief for Global News, breaks down the results, including the sharp rural–urban divide, strong support for remaining in major cities, and closer races in several rural ridings. He explains why the roughly one-in-four Albertans who supported Option 2 cannot be dismissed — particularly as some voters may have been looking to send a message to Ottawa and Premier Danielle Smith rather than endorse separation outright. Plus, we look at the other nine referendum questions, from immigration and health-care policy to Senate reform, and what the results could mean for the provincial government’s next steps and its relationship with the federal government. With Premier Smith expected to address the results, David explains where there may be room for political compromise — and where constitutional and…

Moose rut season is here, and Calgary’s urban wildlife could be closer than you think. We’re joined by Jason Leo Bantle, founder and photographer at All in the Wild Photography, to discuss why bull moose can become unpredictable and dangerous during mating season — especially when their hormones are running high and their behaviour changes. Jason shares a remarkable firsthand encounter photographing a rutting bull moose, explaining how the animal became so fixated that he ultimately had to climb a tree to get out of harm’s way. With moose potentially appearing around Calgary neighbourhoods, Jason also discusses why it’s important to understand their behaviour, give them plenty of space and respond safely when encountering wildlife in the city. It’s a fascinating look at the realities of living alongside wildlife — and a timely reminder to stay alert during moose rut season. Explore Jason’s wildlife photography at allinthewild.com

Calgary’s win over the Carolina Hurricanes could be a major confidence boost for the Flames, and our Colour Analyst, Meaghan Mikkelson, breaks down what made it their most complete performance of the season. From outstanding penalty killing and strong defensive structure to accountability and capitalizing on scoring chances, the Flames showed they can compete with the league’s best. Now, the challenge is carrying that belief and confidence into their next game — and Meaghan explains why keeping Devin Cooley between the pipes could be key. Plus, we discuss Cooley’s viral interview and his fascinating insights into the athlete’s mind. Meaghan shares why his openness about the conscious and subconscious brain, and his ability to articulate what it takes to get in the zone, make him such a refreshing voice in hockey.

What does Calgary need to support the next generation of athletes and strengthen community sport? We satt down with Dr. Nick Holt, Dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary, to explore the growing demand for high-quality sport facilities and the vision behind the university’s proposed multi-sport stadium project. Dr. Holt discusses the gap in facilities for amateur sport in Calgary, where families often find themselves driving across the city and training late into the evening, even through the winter months. He shares how a new multi-sport facility, featuring a stadium with more than 5,000 seats and a seasonal winter dome, could help create more opportunities for athletes, teams and community members to play, train and compete. Designed to serve as a home for the Dinos and the wider community, the project also raises a bigger question: How can partnerships and strategic investment in sport infrastructure create a lasting legacy for a growing city? It’s a conversation about more than a…

As Albertans head to the polls for the separation referendum, Thomas Lukaszuk, leader of the Forever Canadian movement, joins us to discuss what’s at stake and why he believes staying in Canada is the right path forward. Lukaszuk shares his hopes for voter turnout, argues that Alberta should focus on working with the federal government to address the province’s concerns, and warns that pursuing separation could lead to years of continued division and uncertainty. He also questions the cost of another referendum process, saying Alberta has more to lose than gain from continued political grandstanding. With the decision now in the hands of voters, Lukaszuk reflects on what this moment could mean for Alberta’s future, its relationship with Canada, and how this historic vote will be remembered.

The community of Wainwright is facing a devastating and heartbreaking time following this weekend’s tragedy. Bruce Pugh, Mayor of Wainwright, joins us to reflect on the impact on his community, the support residents need as they navigate this difficult period, and how the town is coming together in the aftermath. We talk about the importance of standing together, supporting those affected, and helping the community through a time of profound sadness.

It’s referendum day in Alberta, and Elections Alberta says 43% of eligible voters have already cast their ballots through advance voting and special ballots. Maia Hanrahan, media spokesperson for Elections Alberta, joins us with an update on turnout expectations, preparations for what could be a much bigger turnout than the 2023 provincial election, and how their teams are ready for the day. We break down how the counting process will work, including which referendum question will be counted first, when advance and special ballots will be tallied, and how results will be released as each count is completed. Maia also explains the timeline for confirming official voting numbers, and how Elections Alberta has staffed the vote. Plus, Maia shares important reminders for voters: review the referendum questions ahead of time, have your ID ready, confirm your assigned voting location, and arrive early. Polling stations are scheduled to be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with anyone already in line allowed to vote…

Can not having access to a car affect your ability to vote? On referendum day, we look at the connection between car ownership, transportation and civic participation. Brian Turner, contributor at Driving.ca and a veteran of the automotive repair world with more than four decades of experience, joins us for Motor Mondays to discuss why access to reliable transportation can be a barrier to getting to the polls. Brian shares what Elections Canada’s research says about transportation and voter turnout, and why younger Canadians are increasingly delaying buying their first vehicles as costs continue to climb. We also discuss the risks of buying older used cars, the challenges young drivers face when renting vehicles, and whether car-sharing services like Communauto could offer a more affordable alternative to ownership. As the cost of owning a vehicle continues to rise, we ask what the future of car ownership looks like — and whether better public transportation and other alternatives could help more people get…

As Albertans head to the polls for the separation referendum, what are the economic stakes for the province’s business community? Adam Legge, president of the Business Council of Alberta, joins us to discuss why the organization believes staying in Canada is the best path forward for Alberta’s economy. Plus, we look at what businesses have been saying in the lead-up to the vote, the potential economic implications of separation, and what the path forward could look like for Alberta once the results are in.

It’s referendum day in Alberta. Whether you’re heading to the polls early or expecting to wait in line, there are a few things to keep in mind to protect your health. Dr. Ted Jablonski, our on-call family physician, joins us to discuss the mental health benefits of voting, how to stay comfortable and hydrated during potentially long waits, and ways to manage stress if tensions arise. Plus, Dr. J shares simple tips for keeping your blood circulating while standing in line and explains why it’s important to take precautions against seasonal illnesses when gathering indoors with large crowds. His advice: take care of yourself while taking part in your community.

Four Canadian Forces members are dead and dozens more are seriously wounded following a significant fire at a training area at CFB Wainwright. Eileen Bell, News Manager for QR Calgary and 880 CHED in Edmonton, joins us with the latest on the developing story.

You’ve found a parking spot, someone gets into their car, and then… nothing. Why does it feel like they’re taking forever to leave? And are they doing it just to annoy you? Andrew Clark, award-winning journalist, author, screenwriter and contributing writer for The Globe and Mail, joins us after his latest piece explored the psychology behind one of driving’s most frustrating little rituals. He shares how a crowded parking lot sent him down a rabbit hole into a 1997 study on “territorial defense” — the idea that drivers can be reluctant to give up a space when they know someone else wants it. We get into whether drivers really do delay their departure on purpose, and why parking lots seem to bring out the worst in all of us. Plus, Andrew shares his rules for waiting for a parking spot. Read Andrew's full piece in The Globe and Mail: Do drivers take longer to exit a spot if they know someone is waiting? My blood boiled as I waited and pondered - The Globe and Mail

The Flames are coming off their first win of the season but now comes a major test against a loaded Vegas Golden Knights team. Our colour analyst, Meaghan Mikkelson, breaks down what Calgary needs to do to keep the momentum going, from outworking and outbattling one of the league’s toughest opponents to putting together a complete 60-minute effort. We also look at the Flames’ unusually low shooting and scoring percentages, and whether a little puck luck could finally start going their way. Plus, Meaghan shares a proud hockey mom moment. She reflects on watching her kids develop as players and why it’s important to remember that every hockey journey starts somewhere.

Peter Guthrie is proud to be an Albertan, a conservative and a Canadian. But he believes Alberta’s referendum could fuel a conflict with Ottawa that doesn't end when the votes are counted. The Airdrie-Cochrane MLA and Progressive Tory Party leader joins us to explain why he voted NO on Questions 1 through 9 and voted for Alberta to remain in Canada on Question 10. He questions why several issues previously promoted by the UCP are missing from the ballot and warns that the results could be used to keep the push for separation alive. Plus, Guthrie shares his family's personal connection to Canada, his son's military service and why he believes Alberta can fight for its interests without breaking its ties to the rest of the country. October 20 may be voting day, but is it really the end of the story?

Calgary’s population has tripled since its current 14-ward system was established in 1976. So why hasn’t the number of city councillors changed? Andrew Ng, former journalist and author of the Dressing Down Democracy Substack, joins us to make the case for expanding Calgary City Council. After councillors proposed increasing their ward office budgets, Andrew started asking whether more staff is really the answer — or whether Calgarians need more elected representatives. We talk about what it means to represent roughly 114,000 people in a single ward, how Calgary’s growing population and geography complicate the job, and whether adding councillors could make local government more accessible and effective. With Calgary continuing to grow, is it time to rethink how the city is represented? Read Andrew's full Substack piece here: A Case for More Councillors - by Andrew

What if Alberta’s referendum ends up changing the province’s politics in ways nobody expected? Independent Senator Paula Simons joins us to unpack the unlikely alliances forming across Alberta as groups with very different political views come together around the referendum. What began as a source of despair has become something she finds genuinely inspiring — with people getting involved in politics, volunteering and campaigning for the first time. We get into the differences between Alberta’s referendum and Quebec’s independence votes, the controversy surrounding immigration, the future of the separatist movement, and why the stakes extend far beyond Alberta. With a changing world order and Canada facing major decisions about its future, Simons says this is a moment when unity matters more than ever. Could this be the beginning of a new chapter in Alberta politics?

Brady Rogers, aka Brady the Creator, never expected to run for city council — and he’s not pretending to be a career politician. The co-owner of The Rogerie, a Kelowna business that recycles waste plastic locally into new homeware products, joins us to explain why he decided to step into local politics despite his famously unenthusiastic approach to the job. We discuss Kelowna’s affordability challenges, traffic congestion, homelessness, along with the role local business owners can play in shaping the city’s future. Brady also reflects on the unexpected reach of his campaign, and how he’s preparing for the demands of public office while raising a young family. With an election date of October 17, why is this self-described reluctant candidate ready to take on the challenge? Learn more about Brady at: www.bradythecreator.com

The Alberta government’s intervention in Calgary’s zoning rules is raising questions about the future of local decision-making. We’re joined by Ward 8 Councillor Nathaniel Schmidt to discuss why he believes the province’s move goes beyond housing and infill, and how ongoing provincial interventions are creating uncertainty for municipal governments. Schmidt also reflects on his efforts to find alternative approaches to housing, including backyard and basement suites, and explains why he believes the province’s broad powers could set a precedent that Calgarians may not always agree with. How much control should the province have over decisions made at the municipal level?

The Alberta government is stepping into municipal zoning decisions, raising new questions about the future of infill housing in Calgary. We’re joined by Willem Klumpenhouwer, Co-Founder of pro-housing group More Neighbours Calgary, to discuss the province’s latest move, why he believes the conversation around density needs more balance, and the benefits of infill development as Calgary continues to grow. Willem also shares his thoughts on the province’s changing position on municipal zoning and what he hopes to see from Calgary’s Mayor and Council as they work toward a new approach to housing. To find out more on More Neighbours Calgary: www.moreneighbourscalgary.ca

It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time to Ask the Mayor. This week, we’re talking with Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas about Monday, October 19th’s referendum vote. The Mayor is encouraging Calgarians to get out and vote, discusses plans to cast his own ballot on the official voting day, and explains why he believes the referendum questions have been confusing for voters. We also get into Calgary Police Service funding requests for the city’s 2027–2030 budget cycle. Police are seeking a significant increase to their capital budget, and the Mayor explains why he’ll be taking a close look at what the service needs, what can be prioritized, and how council can balance competing demands while managing spending. Plus, we discuss the Alberta government’s proposed provincewide expectations for infill development and its direction to Calgary on properties that returned to lower-density zoning. The Mayor shares his concerns about provincial overreach, the impact on local decision-making, and why he believes Calgary…

How far back does Halloween really go in Southern Alberta? We’re finding out with Cassandra Cummings, Curator at Lougheed House National & Provincial Historic Site! Cassandra joins us to explore the fascinating history of Halloween in Calgary and Southern Alberta, including a surprising discovery that could push the earliest known reference to “trick-or-treat” back to 1917 — decades earlier than many records suggest. We also look at how Halloween celebrations have changed over the years. Lougheed House is bringing that history to life this spooky season with a free outdoor exhibit, guided Halloween history tours, and an adults-only trivia night. Discover the surprising stories behind one of our favourite fall traditions! For more details, visit lougheedhouse.com.

Should we give leftovers a different name to make them more appetizing? French Chef Xavier Lacaze of XL CUISINE joins us to share his thoughts on Thanksgiving leftovers, the French term for them, and how to turn yesterday’s turkey dinner into something new. Xavier shares his tips for reinventing leftover turkey, including why a Mexican-inspired dish is a great option and how adding a little fat can bring lean turkey back to life after a few days in the fridge. So, before you forget about those Ziploc bags of turkey, find out how to make leftovers something worth looking forward to!

Calgary has earned a reputation as the friendliest city in the world, but could separatist rhetoric put that reputation — and the local tourism economy — at risk? Alisha Reynolds, President and CEO of Tourism Calgary, joins us to discuss why political uncertainty matters to visitors, businesses and the future of our city. We talk about tourism’s impact on Alberta’s economy, why Canadians play such an important role in Calgary’s visitor industry, and what Reynolds calls the “secret sauce” to keeping a city thriving. Plus, she explains why she believes Calgary’s future is strongest as part of a united Canada. You can read her full article, The Friendliest City in the World Cannot be Divided by Separatism, at VisitCalgary.com.

Every hailstorm brings the same dangerous scene to Calgary roads: drivers stopping underneath bridges to protect their vehicles. Ward 14 Coun. Landon Johnston joins us to discuss his new motion to use the city’s 90-plus electronic signs to warn drivers about incoming hail and remind them of the dangers of stopping on active roadways. Johnston explains why he wants to see more public education and police enforcement, and how the city could get ahead of the problem before next summer’s hail season. We also talk about what inspired him to take action and why protecting your vehicle should never come at the expense of everyone else’s safety.

What would Alberta’s health-care system look like if more people got their flu and COVID-19 shots? Dr. Ted Jablonski, our on-call family physician, joins us to discuss low vaccination rates and the growing pressure seasonal illnesses put on hospitals and health-care workers. Plus, Dr. J debunks the myth that the flu shot can give you the flu and explains why getting vaccinated helps protect not only yourself, but your family and community. His message is simple: do your due diligence, get protected and help take the pressure off our health-care system.

White, black and silver-grey may dominate the roads, but are we missing a little colour? After a listener got in touch wondering why car colours seem to be looking worse these days, Brian Turner, contributor at Driving.ca and a veteran of the automotive repair world with more than four decades of experience, joins us for Trucking Tuesday to take a closer look at the colours Canadians drive — and the ones they really want. Brian explains why white, black and grey vehicles can practically disappear into their surroundings, whether it’s snow, darkness or city streets. We also explore the difference between the colours Canadians say they want and the ones they actually buy. Plus, could vibrant orange be the next big thing? We talk about the growing appeal of more distinctive colours, why vinyl wraps can be a great option for drivers looking to stand out, and whether some of today’s bold, almost unnatural shades are taking things a little too far. As Brian points out, a car’s colour might be a matter of personal…

Winter might be knocking early! Bad Weather Kyle, a.k.a. Kyle Brittain, joins our Calgary and Edmonton hosts to break down the incoming snowstorm and what it could mean for Thanksgiving weekend travel across Alberta. Kyle explains where snowfall could hit hardest, why forecasting Alberta’s weather can be tricky, and what drivers should watch for as temperatures drop. Plus, he shares his early prediction for the winter ahead. Find more from Kyle at: badweatherkyle.com

Our weekly conversation with Global News Washington Correspondent Reggie Cecchini looks at the latest political developments in the U.S. and what they could mean for the midterms and beyond. They turn to Texas, where Democrats are gaining traction in key races and Republicans face challenges from controversial candidates. Reggie explains why the state could become a major battleground in the fight for political power. They also break down Donald Trump’s decision to make red-dyed diesel available more broadly amid pressure from the war in Iran, what it could mean for fuel prices, and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Plus, Reggie shares his Thanksgiving plans amid the chaos of American politics.

Your friends and family could play a bigger role in Alberta’s referendum than you think. In this conversation, Calgary-born political science PhD student Steven Nuss discusses his recent Calgary Herald opinion piece and how social norms can influence voter turnout. He shares why he believes Albertans should talk openly about their intentions to vote, encourage loved ones to show up, and make their voices heard on October 19. You can read Steven's full piece here: calgaryherald.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-set-the-expectations-for-your-friends-and-family-to-show-up-and-vote-to-remain

Ward 13 Councillor Dan McLean joins us to discuss Calgary’s proposed water utility rate increases, which could add nearly $90 a month to the average household’s bill by 2030. McLean calls the proposed hikes unacceptable and discusses alternatives, including spreading infrastructure investments over multiple council terms, finding savings in city spending and slowing municipal hiring. He also shares his concerns about rising property taxes and where he believes the city could cut costs.

Why do some people question the need for food bank services when they see a newer or more expensive vehicle in the hamper line? Melissa From, President and CEO of the Calgary Food Bank, joins us to discuss a new Myth Busters series examining common misconceptions about food bank clients. After hearing repeated questions about the vehicles people drive to pick up hampers, the Calgary Food Bank conducted a six-week observational study. The findings? Nine out of 10 vehicles observed were economy cars, and the average vehicle value was approximately $12,000, with an average age of around 12 years. From the rising cost of living to the realities of getting around Calgary, From explains why a vehicle’s appearance is not a reliable indicator of financial need — and why challenging assumptions matters when it comes to ensuring support reaches those who need it most. Read the full report: https://www.calgaryfoodbank.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Mini-Report-for-Website-Myth-1-compressed.pdf

EPISODE ONE - THE TARTAN TIE The first week of every month, join Mayor Jeromy Farkas and QR Mornings radio host Sarah Crosbie for The Tartan Tie - a new Calgary podcast. Why The Tartan Tie? You'll often see Mayor Jeromy wearing his Calgary tartan tie. The colours illustrate different pillars of this city, from the Bow and Elbow rivers to oil and gas to our welcoming do-it-with-a-smile attitude. These conversations will also be about everything that makes us, well ... us. In this first episode, we discuss: • The October 19 Alberta referendum, including Question #10: Should Alberta remain a province of Canada, or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada? • The Big Blue Ring (a.k.a. The Travelling Light) - Does Mayor Jeromy like it? • How is he feeling heading into budget season to set municipal property tax rates in Calgary? • City councillor Andre Chabot…

A $10,000 cheque to let an AI data centre into your backyard—would you take it? Dr. Mél Hogan, an associate professor at Queen’s University and a data infrastructure expert, joins us to look at what communities are being offered as data centres expand, the environmental questions surrounding them, and whether the price being offered tells the whole story. Listen to Dr. Hogan’s podcast, The Data Fix: https://shows.acast.com/the-data-fix

It might seem like an easy way to get rid of unwanted junk, but Alberta says illegal dumping is a crime—and it’s planning much tougher penalties. Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, joins us to talk about the crackdown, who could face the biggest consequences, and why the province says taxpayers and landowners shouldn’t be left with the mess.

Turkey has long ruled the Thanksgiving table, but Greg Keller of Bon Ton Meat Market says shoppers are getting more creative about what—and how much—they buy. We get into the turkey trends for 2026, the rise of smaller cuts and roasts, and why the whole bird might actually be one of the most affordable ways to feed a crowd.

Think you know what your home costs you every month? Bruce Sellery, CEO of Credit Canada, says many Canadians may be missing more than they realize. We dig into the costs that go beyond the mortgage or rent—and why so many Albertans are feeling the squeeze. Plus, one simple way to get a clearer picture of where your housing money is actually going.

A powerful message from a father online caught our attention, calling on parents of young boys to do better. Jon Shell, Chair at Social Capital Partners and Executive Producer of the Gloves Off podcast, joins us to talk about his post connecting the recent Cornell University case, involving allegations of a sexual assault at a fraternity, to the Hockey Canada case, where several former junior players faced allegations of sexual assault. As the father of three girls, Jon talks about the fear of knowing he can’t always be there to protect them, and why he believes parents need to have difficult conversations with their sons about what to do when a girl needs help. We talk about raising strong, smart kids, the limits of simply teaching boys not to do harm, and the responsibility to recognize when something is wrong and step in.

Fall vaccination season is here, with flu, COVID and travel vaccines opening up October 19th. Pharmacist Brad Couldwell of Glenbrook Family Pharmasave joins us with an update on what he’s seeing, who should be considering a flu or COVID shot, and what we know about this year’s viruses. We also tackle one of the most common reasons people avoid the flu shot — the belief that the vaccine can actually give you the flu. Brad explains why that’s a myth, the difference between the flu and the common cold, and how vaccines prepare your body to fight off infection.

Back by popular demand, Ben Mulroney joins the Morning Show to talk Alberta’s separation movement following the Parti Québécois win in Quebec and what he expects from Alberta’s upcoming referendum on October 19th. We also get a glimpse into what it was like growing up in the Mulroney household, where politics was never off the Thanksgiving dinner table. As Ben puts it, “If you come to the Mulroney house for dinner and expect no politics for dinner, you’re crazy.” Plus, we get into Ben’s Thanksgiving traditions, the growing army of Mulroney's gathering for dinner, and the one dish he looks forward to most. Catch The Ben Mulroney Show on QR Calgary weekdays from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Flames have had a frustrating start to the season, but our Colour Analyst, Meaghan Mikkelson, is looking for the positives as Calgary gets set for a tough matchup with Colorado. She breaks down what’s working — including a strong power play and penalty kill — and what needs to change, from the lack of offense and defensive lapses to getting back to the hard-working, detailed game the Flames are known for. We also discuss the lineup shakeups involving Connor Zary and Brayden Pachal and whether they could provide a spark. Plus, Meaghan gives us a glimpse into life away from the booth as a busy hockey mom, balancing life on the road with her family, volunteering and even evaluating young players.

It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time to Ask the Mayor. This week, we’re talking with Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas about the growing involvement of American MAGA operatives in Alberta’s separatist movement. The Mayor says he believes there’s a level of hypocrisy in claiming to stand for Alberta’s sovereignty while going to Washington to seek support and explains why he feels it’s important to speak up — even though he’s not a provincial politician. We also talk about the Mayor’s upcoming announcement on a new MOU with Calgary’s nonprofit sector, and what it means for the organizations doing work across the city. Plus, with Thanksgiving around the corner, we get into Jeromy’s dinner table picks — from the protein and stuffing to cranberry sauce and pie. We also talk about what he’s thankful for after a listener reminds us just how good Calgary can be. And we announce a brand-new podcast launching today: The Tartan Tie. Have a question for the Mayor? Send us a text at 403-974-8255, or call our answering machine…

The Parti Québécois win in Quebec has renewed questions about what the province’s political shift could mean for Alberta and its own growing separation movement. Tim Sargent, Director of Economic Growth and Prosperity at the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, joins us to unpack the economics and realities of an independent Alberta. We discuss the similarities and differences between Quebec and Alberta, the challenges of negotiating trade with the U.S., what Alberta’s oil and gas industry could look like as a landlocked country, and how an independent Alberta would handle pensions, taxes, defence and other services currently provided by Ottawa. We also explore what Alberta separation could mean for B.C., Saskatchewan and the rest of Canada.

AI is already making its way into construction sites, factories, farms and other workplaces across Canada—but are employers giving workers the support they need to use it? Sam Jenkins, Managing Partner at Punchcard Systems, joins us to discuss new research showing that 68% of Canadian heavy industry workers have received no formal AI training or support, with that number climbing to 87% among construction workers. We talk about where workers are already using AI, the tasks they trust it with, and why the biggest challenge may not be getting AI into the workplace but figuring out how to use it safely and effectively. Find out more at punchcard.io

What does a French chef put on his ideal Thanksgiving table? Chef Xavier Lacaze of XL Cuisine shares his take on the classic Canadian Thanksgiving dinner, from turkey and sweet potatoes to the one dish he doesn’t actually like—but still makes for his family. He also has some advice for taking the stress out of cooking for a crowd, including why a potluck might be the perfect solution. And when it comes to Thanksgiving, Chef Xavier says there’s one thing that matters more than getting everything perfect: “food is a safe place for memories.” Find out more about Chef Xavier Lacaze and XL Cuisine at xlcuisine.ca

Remember Calgary’s Tool Library? After years of complications and false starts, it’s finally making a comeback. Peter Harrison, Lead Organizer of the Calgary Tool Library, joins us to talk about the mission to bring the community resource back, the new partnership helping make it possible, and what people can expect when the doors reopen this year. Plus, how you can help get the Tool Library stocked and ready to go. To learn more, visit calgary.myturn.com or email calgarytoollibrary@gmail.com with questions or to get involved.

Skunks have a pretty unfortunate reputation, but there’s more to these fascinating creatures than their infamous spray. Jason Leo Bantle, Founder and Photographer of All in the Wild Photography, joins us to talk about what makes skunks so unique, why they’re often misunderstood—and what it’s like to have a very up-close encounter with one. And yes, Jason has been sprayed. Find out what happened and why he still has a soft spot for these surprisingly interesting animals. You can find more on Jason at: allinthewild.com

A recent LinkedIn post from Matthew Kleywegt, Indigenous Student Recruiter with MacEwan University’s Office of the University Registrar, sparked a conversation about why he has a very different view of life in Alberta than the narrative he often hears. He talks about wages, housing, taxes and the opportunities he and his family have found in Alberta—and why he says it would be difficult to imagine living anywhere else in Canada. So why does he think the story being told about Alberta is so different from the reality he’s experiencing? And what does that mean for the growing conversation about Alberta’s future in Canada?

Think tomato juice is the secret weapon for getting rid of skunk smell? Think again. Beki Hunt from the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society tells Sarah Crosbie that the famous tomato-soup remedy is actually a complete myth — and apparently we've all been doing this wrong. We also get into Calgary's skunk population: Are there actually more skunks in the city this year, or are we just noticing and talking about them more? Beki explains what makes a skunk spray, why skunks are actually little heroes in our communities, what to do if you or your dog gets sprayed, and what these misunderstood creatures are up to as the weather gets colder. Plus: how humans can safely share the city with our neighbourhood skunks. Learn more about the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society here: www.calgarywildlife.org

Diesel prices are hitting record highs as global conflicts squeeze supplies — and there’s another problem hitting fuel retailers: diesel theft. Calgary fuel stations have lost thousands of dollars worth of diesel, including one tanker truck that allegedly took 10,000 litres worth about $20,000 over two weeks. GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan says diesel theft is nothing new, but the people being hurt are local fuel retailers — not the oil companies or refineries. He also looks ahead at where diesel prices could be headed next. LIVE fuel price data: prices.GasBuddy.com

Calgary-based knitwear designer Chantal Miyagishima says the knitting world is pissed — and AI-generated products on Etsy are a big reason why. She says AI is being used to mimic and rip off real designers’ work, while generating knitting patterns that can be completely wrong or even physically impossible to make. Chantal says those bad patterns can leave knitters blaming themselves for not being able to follow them, when the real problem is the AI-generated design. We talk about AI, stolen designs, and what happens when a creative community starts losing trust in the work it buys online. Find Chantal: @knitatude on Instagram | www.knitatude.ca