Advertise on podcast: Matter of 'Fax

Season 4 continues with James Collins and Alec Cranston, though James joins from his sickbed, loaded up on throat lozenges, while Alec runs the studio on his own. This episode is about one of the biggest questions facing the city: what happens next at the Wanderers Grounds? Halifax Wanderers FC owner Derek Martin explains how a weedy, neglected field became the home of professional soccer in Halifax. He talks about why the "pop-up" stadium was only ever meant to be temporary, and why he's now pitching City Council on a privately funded modular stadium on a 99-year land lease, which he says would cost taxpayers very little. He also covers what the plan could mean for concerts and events, and for Halifax's ability to compete for big shows. Along the way, they cover: Insane as the Crane: the "Lake America" sweaters, an AI photo that went viral, and the CEO who lost her job over itThis month's Harbour of Lies: Enos Collins, the Nova Scotia privateer whose bank became part of CIBC's history ("he put the R in banker")James's accidental three Harbour Hopper tours in 15 hoursHow a beach volleyball event on the waterfront led Derek to the Wanderers GroundsThe rugby game that was cancelled after the field ended up with "crop circles" of burnt grassWhy the Wanderers Grounds has been a fenced sports venue since the 1880s and has never truly been open spaceSurviving COVID, a two-year city study, and a $120M worst-case estimateLife at the pop-up stadium: no washrooms, no running water, and shipping-container locker roomsJames on Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, which was in use 300 days a yearWhy concert promoters start every show $2 million in the hole, and how a permanent venue changes thatThe road ahead: HRM review, a council decision targeted by year-end, Maybank Field, and a 2028 opening goalHow Haligonians can make their voices heard with their councillorsChapters: 00:00 Cold open 00:16 Intro: Alec alone in the studio, James sick in bed 02:45 Insane as the Crane: the "Lake America" sweaters 10:25 Harbour of Lies: the story of Enos Collins 19:36 The verdict 21:57 Derek Martin joins the show 23:01 From beach volleyball to the Wanderers Grounds 25:20 The "crop circles" rugby disaster 27:18 How the Wanderers and the pop-up stadium were born 28:44 "It's truly never been open space" 29:42 Right-sizing a stadium, COVID, and the city study 33:36 The privately funded proposal and the 99-year lease 34:51 Pop-up realities and the grandstand tender 39:35 James on Cardiff's Millennium Stadium 42:19 The economics of concerts in Halifax 45:48 "We haven't profited yet" 46:53 What's next: council, Maybank Field, and the 2028 timeline 51:34 How the public can help 54:02 OutroFollow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/

Season 4 continues with hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston back in the studio after a chaotic Halifax summer of heat, bomb threats, and breaking news alerts — and turning their attention to something even more unsettling: Halifax quietly becoming one of the least affordable cities in Canada. James walks through a new Urban Stress Index report ranking Halifax above Toronto and Vancouver for unaffordability, while he and Alec unpack what it means when rent eats 60% of a typical income, how that changes everyday life in the city, and why it’s not just a “people are bad with money” story. Along the way, they cover: What the Urban Stress Index is and why Halifax tops its Canadian unaffordability rankingsHow rising rents and stagnant incomes are reshaping what people here can actually afford to do for funThe trade‑off between “charming small East Coast city” vibes and wanting big‑city amenities and investmentThe flood of emergency alerts in Halifax lately, from the downtown bomb threat to a gunman in BedfordHow Canada’s alert system really works (and why your phone goes off for incidents hours away)This month’s Harbour of Lies: the charming “village” of Anus, Nova ScotiaA detour through some of the world’s most ridiculous real place names, courtesy of James’s UK upbringingHow the show has evolved as the hosts loosen up, swear a bit more, and reflect on past “frosty” guestsFollow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/ Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/

Season 4 continues with hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston turning their attention to a topic reshaping every industry in Nova Scotia and beyond: artificial intelligence – what it really is, how it’s already changing work, and where the risks (and hype) actually lie. They’re joined by Jennifer LaPlante, Deputy Minister of the Department of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions for the Government of Nova Scotia, to unpack how AI and digital tools are being used inside government, what businesses are getting wrong about “just using ChatGPT,” and why critical thinking matters more than ever for the next generation. Along the way, they cover: What AI actually is (beyond chatbots and image generators)How businesses should be using – and not using – tools like ChatGPT and CopilotThe real data‑privacy risks when staff paste confidential info into public AI toolsHow the pandemic forced a rapid (and messy) wave of digital transformationWhy replacing human processes with tech is often more expensive than people thinkWhich jobs are most and least likely to be automated in the next decadeWhy teaching kids to think critically is the best “AI strategy” families can haveWhat a realistic, responsible AI future could look like in 2036Plus: James and Alec kick things off with an “Insane is the Crane” dive into Premier Tim Houston’s controversial budget cuts – especially to arts and culture – and a Harbour of Lies segment on Nova Scotia’s forgotten days driving on the left side of the road (and how that allegedly crashed beef prices). Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/ Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/

Season 4 continues with hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston turning their attention to one of Halifax’s most iconic – and misunderstood – landmarks: the massive concrete grain elevator at the edge of Point Pleasant Park. They’re joined by Kim Batherson, President & CEO of Halifax Grain Elevator Limited, to unpack how this 100-year-old structure quietly powers Canada’s food supply, supports global grain and wood‑pellet trade, and operates safely in the middle of a growing residential and condo district. Along the way, they cover: What actually happens inside the grain elevator’s 365 silosHow Nova Scotia fits into global grain and wood‑pellet exportsThe 2003 explosion, what was learned, and how safety is handled todayThe tension between heavy industry, new development, and the port’s 50‑year planWhy the future of the grain elevator matters for food security in Atlantic CanadaPlus: James and Alec kick things off with a look at Nova Scotia Power’s recent load‑shedding request, internet outrage vs. reality, and Alec’s Harbour of Lies segment on Harry Houdini’s little-known Atlantic Canadian chapter. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/ Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/

Season 4 kicks off with hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston back in the studio, mixing Halifax politics, world events, and a deep dive into the region’s emerging space sector. They’re joined by Arad Gharagozli, CEO & Founder of Galaxia Mission Systems, a Halifax-based manufacturer of intelligent satellites. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

Halifax, Nova Scotia: beautiful, stubborn, and a little bit chaotic, just like the people who call it home. Hosted by James Collins and Alec Cranston, Matter of Fax dives into the real stories of Halifax: the good, the bad, and the badly parked. From sky‑high rents and “I’m totally moving away” promises, to the reasons we never actually leave, this show is for newcomers trying to find their footing and lifelong Haligonians who know they’re never really going anywhere. No tourism fluff. Just honest conversations, local characters, and a healthy amount of side‑eye, served up with the kind of humor you only get from people who love this city enough to complain about it nonstop. Halifax stories. Just facts. No fluff. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, your hosts Alec Cranston and James Collins explore Nova Scotia’s wildfire ban, debunk a WWII espionage myth in the “Harbor of Lies,” and sit down with special guest Max Emerson Taylor for an honest look at influencer life, the pressures of social media, and the reality behind viral fame. Max shares how his journey led from content creation to script writing, why he ran for mayor to inspire youth voting, and how authenticity guided him to launch his creative media company, all delivered with humor, candor, and a strong sense of civic pride. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

Hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston return for a fresh episode packed with local stories, science, and innovation. The two sit with David Regan, CEO of Sona Nanotech. David shares the fascinating story behind Sona’s breakthrough gold nanorod technology, which enables targeted hyperthermia cancer therapy. We learn how these nanoparticles are tuned to specific wavelengths, injected into tumors, and then activated by near-infrared light to selectively destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. David explains the science, the company’s journey from rapid COVID-19 test development to cancer therapy, and the importance of Atlantic Canada’s innovation ecosystem. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

This episode, with a special co-host, tuning in all the way from Norway, we discuss the Nova Scotia Power data breach, which exposed personal information of 140,000 customers, including social insurance numbers. An interview with Louis Thomas, President and CEO of Sonic Entertainment Group, discussing the logistics and challenges of organizing the Halifax Music Fest, featuring major acts like Nickelback and Lenny Kravitz. The fest aims to establish Halifax as a major live music destination! Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

Alec Cranston and James Collins are back this time with Dr. Courtney Sherlock, co-founder and CEO of Halifax Tides FC, a new professional women's soccer team! Dr. Sherlock shares her journey, the team's composition, and community engagement plans, including an academy program to foster local talent. They also discuss the challenges faced, such as kit supply issues, and the importance of community involvement and partnerships. Inspired by Ontario's recent policy change, the two also debate on potentially selling alcohol in Nova Scotia corner stores as well as the potential benefits for local craft brewers. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow Courtney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-sherlock-27359a58/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

In this episode, Alec and James discuss the transition from toll to toll-free bridges in Halifax with Steven Proctor, Communications Manager for Halifax Harbor Bridges. The McDonald Bridge toll plaza was demolished on March 17, 2023, and the Mackay Bridge followed suit. The removal impacted the budget, with the province allocating $85 million for maintenance. The conversation also touches on the history and cultural significance of the bridges, the "Big Lift" project, and the potential for a new bridge. Your hosts also dive into your favourite segmentsHalifax Obscurities: A bizarre roundabout incident featuring a man sitting on top of a carHarbor of Lies: Fact-checking a story about a Halifax Explosion anchor landing in Armdale Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveptoctor90/?originalSubdomain=caFollow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

In episode five of Matter of Fax, hosts Alec Cranston and James Collins discuss their hiatus and upcoming guests! They humorously recount a local robbery attempt at a Sunglass Hut, highlighting the robber's poor planning. James reveals a surprising connection between Bill Clinton and a local Bedford resident. Lastly, an exclusive interview with Trent McClellan covering his comedy origins in Newfoundland, working on This Hour Has 22 Minutes, opening for Jerry Seinfeld and his upcoming comedy special "Worry Muffins." Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow Trent: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-mcclellan-a65b5048/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

Your host Alec Cranston is hitched! Join them on this special episode as Alec and James invite their wives Jen and Jenna to chat about their special day. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

In this holiday episode of the Matter of Fax podcast, hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston discuss a recent crane incident on the McDonald Bridge, the Parade of Lights in Halifax, and holiday traditions! They also interview Paul MacKinnon, CEO of the Downtown Halifax Business Commission, about the Downtown Halifax Vision for 2030, which aims to address growth and decline challenges. Paul highlights the need for improved transportation and public spaces. He also mentions the Parade of Lights, now in its 29th year, and the challenges of organizing such a large event.    Connect with Paul MacKinnon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mackinnon-9ba8155/Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh

Isaac Healy, also known as Halifax's Spider-Man, joins Alec and James this episode to discuss his journey of becoming a superhero to inspire others, especially children. He has been Spider-Man since 2021, visiting the IWK Children's Hospital and the Halifax waterfront. Isaac has faced challenges, including 15 surgeries and being bullied, but finds solace in his childhood favourite character. He has multiple Spider-Man suits and engages in charity work, raising funds for the IWK and Canadian Blood Services. Isaac aims to improve his suits and potentially work at the IWK full-time. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/ Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh Connect with Issac via Instagram @HFXSpiderMan or Twitch under OddAngles.