Advertise on podcast: Thinking Out Loud with Sheldon MacLeod

It wasn’t the first time a provincial politician switched political stripes in Nova Scotia — and it likely won’t be the last. But it was rather surprising when Premier Tim Houston announced Brendan Maguire (Halifax-Atlantic) would also be joining the Executive Council as a member of his cabinet. The former Liberal MLA has been highly critical of the Progressive Conservatives since they took office. And now he says he’ll have a chance to make a difference from the Government side of the house. What does it all mean? That’s what we explore in this conversation with Dalhousie University Professor Dr. Lori Turnbull.

Lisa MacIsaac, a Juno-nominated Nova Scotia musician and member of Madison Violet is about to embark on the 'Small of My Heart' songwriter circle tour. This series of shows, spanning from February to May 2024, is more than just a concert—it's a movement celebrating award-winning women and non-binary artists and advancing their place within the Canadian music industry. Lisa shares her experiences in songwriter circles, both as a participant and now as a host. She describes these gatherings as magical events where artists share songs and stories, drawing inspiration from one another in a live, dynamic environment. This is all about the unique energy of these circles, and how each show is different, influenced by the artists' interactions and the audience's feedback. https://bansheeco.ca/

Have you ever stopped to think about whether your life's path is carved by destiny or shaped by chance? This is the central question posed by the extraordinary play, 'The Gift', presented by Brookes Diamond Productions and starring Robert Lamar. 'The Gift' is not a typical stage play. It's an interactive experiment that urges the audience to engage, to challenge their preconceived notions, and to participate in a journey of self-discovery. As playwright and director Ron Ulrich explains, the play is a series of experiments that question whether our lives are governed by fate or happenstance. The audience is not just watching a story unfold; they are part of the story, potentially influencing its outcome. The world debut is currently running at Halifax’s St. Andrew’s Church Hall.

Have you ever stumbled upon a dream you didn't know you had? That's exactly what happened to Elaine Knight when her niece sent her a link to a castle for sale in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Elaine shares the remarkable story of how she went from seeking a simple property to own a castle, which she plans to transform into a vibrant community space.

Former talk show host Rick Howe, a well-known voice and personality in Halifax radio broadcasting, has died. He was 69. His death was reported Thursday morning on CityNews 95.7, which Howe retired from in 2021. Howe had been battling cancer, which had forced him to retire just short of marking 50 years behind the microphone. This is a conversation with long-time broadcaster and former colleague JC Douglas about the legacy and impact of Rick Howe. https://www.saltwire.com/halifax/news/former-halifax-broadcaster-rick-howe-dies-at-69-100934471/

The stark reality of child poverty in Nova Scotia has been revealed in the latest report card on child and family poverty. With an alarming 20.5% of Nova Scotia's children living below the poverty line in 2021, the conversation with Dr. Christine Saulnier, director of the Nova Scotia branch of the Canadian Center for Policy Alternatives, is both urgent and necessary. https://policyalternatives.ca/publications/reports/2023-report-card-child-and-family-poverty-nova-scotia

In a world where political engagement is more critical than ever, one might assume that civic education—our blueprint for understanding democracy—is a foundational pillar in our schools. But what if I told you that a staggering number of Canadians don't recall learning anything about civics during their formative years? How does this affect our democracy and the discourse around it?

EDIT: On several occasions, Carolyn Bolivar-Getson states the 2024 assessments are based on a “January 1, 2022 state date” and “the January 2022 market”. This is incorrect. 2024 property assessments are evidence-based using sales and financial data to reflect a market value as of January 1, 2023, and the physical state of properties as of December 1, 2023, including new construction, renovations, demolitions, and impacts from natural disasters. We regret the error. Let's delve into the intricacies of property assessments and taxes, a topic that has Nova Scotians on edge as they grapple with the latest valuation notices. With residential property assessments in Halifax soaring by 17.5%, it's no wonder homeowners are anxious about potential tax hikes. We're joined by Jeff Cadell, Assistant Director at Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC), who sheds light on how these figures are calculated and what they mean for you. We also hear from Deputy Mayor Kathy Deagle-Gammon and Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities, who discuss the balancing act of municipal budgeting and the impact on residents' lives. With the real estate market's temperature rising, understanding the appeal process and the cap program becomes crucial. This episode, brought to you by Saltwire, is not just about numbers—it's about the real-life consequences of a red-hot market and what it means for the future of your wallet. Tune in as Sheldon MacLeod guides us through the maze of millage rates and market values, and remember, it's more important now than ever to stay informed and engaged. Subscribe, add your comment, and join the conversation.

'Son of a Critch' is not your average sitcom. It's a blend of nostalgia, family dynamics, and the quirky charm that is Newfoundland and Labrador. Critch brings his childhood to the screen with an authenticity that resonates with audiences across the country. From the casting of Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as young Mark to the inclusion of real-life artifacts from Critch's family home, the show is a lovingly crafted time capsule that invites viewers to partake in the universal experiences of growing up.

In a series of interviews, the leaders of all three political parties in Nova Scotia were asked about the state of politics in 2023 and their thoughts on the year ahead. This is Progressive Conservative Premier Tim Houston.

In a series of interviews, the leaders of all three political parties in Nova Scotia were asked about the state of politics in 2023 and their thoughts on the year ahead. This is Liberal Leader Zach Churchill.

In a series of interviews, the leaders of all three political parties in Nova Scotia were asked about the state of politics in 2023 and their thoughts on the year ahead. This is NDP Leader Claudia Chender.