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Much has been written and said about Lloyd Robertson since we heard the news of his passing on August 4, 2026. He's renowned as the Most Trusted voice in Canadian jounalism, making his mark as the anchor or both the CBC and CTV national newscasts from 1970 to 2011.  He was more than a mentor for thousands of journalists and broadcasters over the course of his career. Lloyd set the gold standard for anchorss, editors, and reporters with his calm, collected, balanced editorial presentation style. His ethic informed the expectations of his audience, the expectation that he and his team put his audience at the centre of his story, his lineup, his production and his newscast. That was foundational to his profile as the most trusted Canadian. I had the privilege of meeting Lloyd on a number of occassions during my 40 plus years in media. It was nerve wracking enough to learn that Lloyd listened to me!! He was a regular radio listener and I was oddly self conscious when he commented on reporting I had done on a recent story. It was even more of a privilege, (and all the more nerve wracking), when I got to interview Lloyd on my radio show. This edition of NOW and NEXT is an ARCHIVE highlight of one of those opportunities. I hope you enjoy hearing Lloyd in his own words. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

What happens when you step away from the noise, the deadlines and the relentless pursuit of “what’s next” long enough to ask what actually matters? Dave Trafford sits down with Rocco Rossi to explore Finding Grace, Rossi’s first novel and a story shaped by more than two decades of walking the Camino de Santiago. Rossi has completed 24 Caminos and roughly 15,000 kilometres of pilgrimage since his first journey in 2002. Their conversation moves between the remarkable history of the Camino and the deeply personal questions at the centre of Rossi’s novel. Finding Grace follows Tony Bird — Anthony Aucello — a successful corporate executive whose life is shattered by tragedy. When an unexpected act of kindness connects him to the Camino, he begins a journey that forces him to reconsider success, loss, identity, relationships and what he wants from the rest of his life. Rossi explains why the Camino remains powerful in an age of smartphones, doomscrolling and constant distraction. Long-distance walking creates something increasingly scarce: stillness. For Rossi, the Camino isn’t magical in itself. Rather, it creates the time and space for people to rediscover what may already exist within them. The discussion also explores the Camino tradition of Vicarie Pro — walking on behalf of another person — and the real-life experience that helped inspire Rossi’s relationship with that tradition. Ultimately, this is a conversation about pilgrimage as a metaphor for life: stripping away distractions, recognizing the grace already around us and figuring out how to carry those lessons home. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction: Rocco Rossi, Finding Grace and 24 Caminos Dave introduces Rossi, his new novel and his extraordinary history walking the Camino de Santiago. 05:42 — Chipping Away What Isn’t You The Camino as a process of stripping away distraction and rediscovering the authentic self. 15:05 — Why the Camino Matters in the Age of Doomscrolling Rossi discusses the dramatic growth of Camino pilgrimage and why people increasingly seek stillness and disconnection. 23:35 — Finding Grace and Walking for Someone Else The novel’s central characters lead into the centuries-old Vicari Pro tradition of walking the Camino on behalf of others. 32:17 — The Real-Life Story Behind Rossi’s Camino Journey Rossi recounts Mary Catherine Kempton’s death on the Camino and why he returned to walk in her name. 41:45 — The Camino Begins When the Camino Ends Re-entry, resilience, finding direction without signposts and why Rossi chose fiction rather than memoir. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

Toronto is preparing to host one of the biggest sporting events in the world, but are Canadians buying into the vision? This week on Now and Next, Dave Trafford is joined by the C.A.S.T. (Communications and Strategy Team), Lindsay Broadhead, Anne Marie Aikins and Bob Reid for a wide-ranging discussion about the stories shaping public opinion across Canada. The panel examines the communications challenge surrounding the FIFA World Cup as Toronto and Vancouver prepare to welcome the world. With costs exceeding a billion dollars, have organizers done enough to explain the long-term benefits and legacy of hosting the tournament? What lessons can be learned from the Pan Am Games and previous global events? The conversation then turns to Canada’s technical recession and the federal government’s response. Did Prime Minister Mark Carney miss an opportunity to connect with Canadians struggling with affordability concerns? The team explores the difference between economic analysis and political leadership when public confidence is on the line. The discussion also dives into Alberta separatism and Pierre Poilievre’s evolving message on federalism. Is he repositioning himself as a national unifier while still addressing regional frustrations? And what does the debate reveal about the future relationship between Ottawa and the provinces? The episode concludes with reflections on Toronto’s Walk for Israel, the challenges facing civic leaders during polarizing moments, and the role communications strategies play when communities are looking for reassurance, clarity and leadership. Now and Next is where communications, politics, public affairs and strategy intersect to help make sense of the issues shaping what comes next. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Tax Freedom Day Dave welcomes the C.A.S.T. panel and previews the major issues on the agenda. 01:00 – World Cup Costs, Legacy and Public Buy-In The panel examines the billion-dollar cost of hosting FIFA World Cup matches and debates whether organizers have effectively communicated long-term benefits for Toronto and Canada. 16:30 – Technical Recession and Carney’s Communications Challenge A discussion about Canada’s technical recession, economic anxiety, and whether the Prime Minister missed an opportunity to connect emotionally with Canadians facing financial pressures. 25:50 – Alberta Separatism and Poilievre’s Political Repositioning The team analyzes Pierre Poilievre’s response to Alberta separatist sentiment and the broader debate over federalism, provincial powers, and national unity. 38:00 – Walk for Israel, Leadership and Public Silence Reflections on the peaceful Walk for Israel in Toronto, rising concerns about antisemitism, police preparedness, and whether civic leaders should speak more forcefully during difficult moments. 51:40 – Looking Ahead to Toronto’s Future The panel closes with a teaser for a future discussion inspired by ideas about what they would do if they were mayor of Toronto. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

Is the Toronto Police Service facing a Trust Crisis. Can you separate Danielle Smith - the Federalist from Danielle Smith the Sovereigntist? Doug Ford’s “gravy plane.” is still a THING. And somehow… flip phones and Pizza Pizza nostalgia are trending. . This week on Now and Next, Dave Trafford is joined by the C.A.S.T. roundtable (The Comms And Strategy Team) — Lindsay Broadhead, Anne Marie Aikins, and Bob Reid — for a wide-ranging conversation about trust, leadership, and the power of political storytelling. The panel breaks down the growing reputational crisis facing the Toronto Police Service following corruption allegations and misconduct investigations involving officers both at home and abroad. They examine whether strong words from leadership are enough to rebuild public confidence — or whether systemic cultural change is required. The conversation then shifts west to Alberta, where Danielle Smith’s referendum strategy continues to fuel confusion and tension around sovereignty, federalism, and Western alienation. The group explores the political calculations behind the messaging and what it could mean for national unity. The team also digs into Doug Ford’s aircraft controversy and why the “gravy plane” narrative became so politically sticky — turning into a larger symbol about transparency, branding, and public trust. And finally, a lighter but revealing discussion: why consumers are suddenly embracing retro brands, flip phones, and 1990s nostalgia in response to modern stress, polarization, and digital overload. Plus: Dave previews a fascinating upcoming conversation with Dr. Cindy Locke of Pickering College about experiential learning and how education can create real-world civic impact. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and the Toronto Police Crisis Dave Trafford introduces the panel and opens discussion on corruption allegations, public trust, and the impact of police misconduct on institutional credibility. 11:16 – Anti-Semitism Allegations and Leadership Challenges The panel discusses Hank Idsinga’s allegations about anti-Semitism within Toronto police culture and the communications challenges facing Chief Myron Demkiw. 20:26 – Alberta Separation, Danielle Smith, and National Unity A deep dive into Alberta’s referendum debate, Western alienation, federalism, and the political strategy behind separatist rhetoric. 33:26 – Doug Ford’s “Gravy Plane” Problem The group analyzes the Ontario government’s mishandling of its aircraft controversy and why the issue evolved into a broader metaphor about trust and political branding. 43:15 – Nostalgia Branding, Flip Phones, and Escaping Modern Anxiety The panel explores why brands are reviving retro aesthetics and why consumers are craving simpler, pre-social media experiences. 50:39 – Education Innovation and Pickering College Dave previews an upcoming interview with Dr. Cindy Locke about experiential learning, civic engagement, and rethinking traditional education models. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

What should school look like in an age of AI, anxiety, disengagement, and rapid social change? In this episode of NOW and NEXT, Dave Trafford speaks with educator and author Dr. Cinde Lock about redesigning education for a generation that needs more than standardized testing and rigid curriculum structures. Drawing on innovative programs developed at Pickering College, Dr. Lock explains how schools can connect academics to purpose, community engagement, entrepreneurship, creativity, and real-world problem solving. The conversation explores why traditional education models are struggling to keep students engaged, how AI could help personalize learning, and why the future of school may depend on giving students greater ownership over what and how they learn. Dave and Dr. Lock also discuss: Student mental health and absenteeismProject-based and experiential learningAI-assisted curriculum designCivic engagement and community partnershipsEntrepreneurship, creativity, and resilienceThe future role of teachersWhy education systems must evolve beyond industrial-age thinking The episode also features remarkable examples of students working on homelessness awareness campaigns, environmental restoration projects, bee hive sustainability initiatives, and community advocacy efforts that produced real-world impact beyond the classroom. Dr. Lock’s new book, Connections, Academics and Purpose: Designing the Future of School, explores how education systems can evolve to better prepare students for an uncertain future while helping them discover meaning, purpose, and confidence along the way. Chapters 00:00 - Dave welcomes you to this special edition of NOW and NEXT. 03:00 — Introduction: Designing the Future of School Dave Trafford introduces Dr. Cinde Lock and the conversation about rethinking education beyond the traditional classroom model. 08:59 — Testing, Standardized Assessments and Student Anxiety The discussion examines EQAO testing, academic pressure, and whether schools have become too focused on evaluation rather than engagement. 14:46 — AI, Personalized Learning and Student-Driven Curriculum Dr. Lock outlines a future-facing vision where students navigate curriculum through personalized projects, mentorship, and AI-supported learning systems. 23:34 — Breaking the System: Scaling Educational Innovation Can innovative learning models work beyond elite schools? The conversation turns to implementation, teacher culture, and public education reform. 34:08 — Real-World Learning: Homelessness, Civic Engagement and Community Impact Students work with Blue Door and local organizations to tackle homelessness stigma, influencing public debate and local political thinking. 40:43 — Failure, Resilience and Why Real Learning Matters From bee hive collapses to environmental restoration projects, Dr. Lock explains why experimentation, setbacks, and iteration are essential parts of meaningful education. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

Dave Trafford is back with a new episode of Now and Next, joined by Bob Reid, Anne Marie Aikins, and Lindsay Broadhead for a sharp, insightful breakdown of the biggest political and communications stories shaping Canada right now. This episode digs into the federal government’s proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund—what it is, what it isn’t, and why so many Canadians are struggling to understand it. The panel explores the growing gap between complex policy and real-life impact, and why even the smartest ideas can fail without clear, relatable communication. The conversation also takes on Ontario politics, including Doug Ford’s recent communications challenges, the risks of going off-brand, and how political narratives can quickly shift. Plus, a look at transparency, freedom of information changes, and why limiting access may actually lead to more leaks and less trust. Finally, the team examines generational economic pressure—how younger Canadians are navigating financial uncertainty, social media influence, and a very different path to success than previous generations. If you’re interested in politics, strategy, and how communication shapes public opinion, this episode connects the dots between what governments say—and what people actually hear. Subscribe for more conversations on what’s happening now—and what comes next. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction Dave returns and sets the stage for a discussion on current political and economic issues. 02:00 — The Sovereign Wealth Fund Explained (or Not) Panel debates the purpose, risks, and lack of clarity around the federal proposal. 12:00 — Communications vs. Complexity in Government Policy Why “too smart by half” messaging can fail to resonate with the public. 26:30 — Doug Ford’s Off-Brand Week Analysis of recent Ontario government communications missteps and their impact. 45:00 — Transparency, FOI Changes, and the Rise of Leaks How limiting access to information may fuel more leaks and public distrust. 48:30 — Gen Z, Wealth Pressure, and Economic Reality A look at financial stress, shifting expectations, and the influence of digital culture. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

As Artemis II captures global attention, this episode of Now and Next takes a step back to revisit the moment that started it all—Apollo 11. Host Dave Trafford weaves together archival audio, historical context, and personal storytelling to explore how humanity first reached the Moon—and why it still matters today. From Jules Verne’s early vision to President Kennedy’s bold challenge, and from liftoff to landing, this episode relives the defining moments of Apollo 11. We also explore the risks, setbacks, and political realities behind the mission, and hear a remarkable firsthand story connecting one family directly to NASA’s early work and the original astronauts. As Artemis II begins its journey, this episode asks: what drives us to go back—and what does it say about where we’re headed next? #ArtemisII #Apollo11 #SpaceExploration #NASA #NowAndNext Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Artemis II Context Dave Trafford sets the stage with the ongoing Artemis II mission and global attention around it.02:55 – From Imagination to Mission Jules Verne’s vision and Kennedy’s call to reach the Moon.04:19 – Apollo 11 Launch & Global Moment Walter Cronkite’s coverage and the historic Saturn V launch.10:18 – Lunar Landing & First Steps Armstrong and Aldrin land and walk on the Moon.13:17 – Risks, Return & Legacy Challenges of the mission, safe return, and global impact.20:35 – Personal Connection to NASA Frank Cohn shares a firsthand family story tied to early NASA and the astronaut era. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on Moore in the Morning on NEWSTALK 1010, Tim Hudak, Tamara Cherry and I were at the Roundtable talking about: More food trucks, vendors and buskers could flood Toronto’s streets amid potential rule changePoilievre calls for cancellation of multibillion-dollar high-speed rail projectVictim Services Toronto expands 'Ask for Angela' safety campaign ahead of World CupStephen Lewis, former Canadian ambassador to the UN and father of NDP leader Avi Lewis, dead at 88 You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on Now and Next, Dave Trafford and the comms and strategy team break down the stories shaping Canada’s political and media landscape. Guests: Bob Reid - Broadway Strategy & Communications  Lindsay Broadhead - Broadhead Communications Anne Marie Aikins - AMA Communications First, the panel dives into the NDP leadership race and what Avi Lewis’ win reveals about the party’s identity, messaging, and future. Is the NDP aligned with what Canadians are actually worried about—or drifting further from the national conversation? Then, a sharp look at Air Canada’s crisis communications response following a tragic aviation incident. What went wrong on tone, language, and leadership—and what should have happened instead? Finally, the Junos take centre stage. With the Prime Minister making headlines and Canadian music icons back in the spotlight, the panel explores how culture, politics, and communications collide—and why moments like this still matter. Three big stories. One consistent lens: strategy, messaging, and what actually resonates. Subscribe for more conversations on politics, communications, and the forces shaping what’s now—and what’s next. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction Welcome and overview of this week’s communications-focused discussion.01:00 – NDP Leadership & Identity Crisis Avi Lewis’ leadership win sparks debate about the party’s direction, messaging, and national relevance.07:00 – Messaging vs Reality in Politics Panel explores whether ideology, leadership style, and messaging align with voter concerns.12:30 – Air Canada Crisis Communications Breakdown Analysis of tone, bilingual expectations, and leadership accountability in crisis response.29:40 – The Junos, Politics & Cultural Signaling Prime Minister’s appearance, Canadian identity, and the communications power of cultural events. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

Always fun to join Jim Richards on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto. We closed the week out riffing on the provincial budget from the Ford government. Big on spending. Short on plans. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

It's another RADIO DAYS edition of Now and NEXT: I sat in with Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB! And it was a jam packed session: At least $50 million in depostis went unredeemed in Ontario in 2024. I'm betting that number will be even higher when we do accounting for 2025! The bottle/cans are landing in overly stressed municipal recycling bins and that cash is sitting in LCBO coffers. Why? It's no coincidence these numbers spiked when we started closing Beer Stores across the province.Canadian travel abroad outpaced ground trips to the US in January 2026 for the first time since 1972! Bill Cosby found guilty of sexual assault in a civil lawsuit. He's ordered to pay $19.25 million in reparations. What's most remarkable about this is the lack of any significant coverage this trial got in the media. AND Premier Doug Ford doubles down on his government's plan to gut the Freedom of Information Act admitting he doesn't want anyone knowing what confidential conversations he's having every day. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

In this edition of RADIO DAYS on Now and Next: I joined Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010 for his PARTY FOR TWO! The Ontario legislature gets back to business for the first time in more than three months and will sit for 32 days before breaking for the summer.Ford has committed to taking over Billy Bishop Airport and invoking Bill 5 to avoid local opposition.The province is also pushing GTA Rental and Affordable Housing Initiative intended to create 2,200 rentals in the near term - converting "unwanted" condos into rental units.The Supreme Court of Canada is hearing arguments over Quebec's Bill 21 and the use of the Notwithstanding Clause. The question is what is the SCOC really considering if the Notwithstanding Clause is the law of the land?AND...are we ready for gas to cost more than $2/litre? You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

AI is no longer theoretical—it’s here, embedded in everything from healthcare to global conflict. In this episode of Now and Next, Dave Trafford is joined by the C.A.S.T. (Comms And Strategy Team) Bob Reid at Broadway Strategy & Communications, Anne Marie Aikens at AMA Communications and Lindsay Broadhead, Broadhead Communications to unpack how artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, communicate and understand the world around us. The conversation starts with new data showing doctors are rapidly adopting AI tools to streamline administrative work and improve efficiency. But the discussion quickly moves into more complex territory—how AI is fueling misinformation, amplifying health anxiety, and blurring the line between reality and manipulation online. The panel also examines how AI-driven content is being used in modern warfare, raising serious questions about propaganda, truth, and public trust. On the political front, they break down the communications fallout surrounding a delayed response to an attack near a Canadian base in Kuwait—and what it reveals about leadership, transparency, and message discipline. Finally, the episode tackles the growing tension between governments and media, including calls for “patriotic reporting” and what that means for journalism in a rapidly shifting information landscape. If AI is changing everything, the question is: are we ready for it? If you want, I can also generate social posts, audiograms, or a Substack companion piece for this episode. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on Moore in the Morning: An OPP report ‘exonerating’ Toronto cops of perjury in the Umar Zameer murder case. Round One on March 18th turned into a vivid exchange of takes on the matter. In the end, the exoneration does little to benefit the reputation of the Toronto Police Service or the officers who testified at Umar Zameer's murder trial.  (FTR: Zameer was acquitted) You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.

This week on the RADIO DAYS edition of NOW and NEXT: Newstalk 1010's Jim Richards and I wonder aloud what Premier Doug Ford has to hide. He's announced his intention to gut Ontario's Freedom of Information Act - excluding the Premier, the cabinet and parliamentary assistants from FOI requests. FOIs have driven the investigative journalism at Queen's Park that uncovered important information about the Greenbelt and the Skills Development Fund in Ontario. You can watch OR listen to this episode on our YouTube Channel (Be sure to subscribe!) Follow Dave on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X And you can leave us a voice comment here! For more information go to Dave's website.