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Matt Walsh took a shot at the Newfoundland accent—and Andrew Parsons has a few words for him. This week on The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill are back for a hosts-only episode covering online rage bait, the debate over MHA pay raises, and the affordability announcements setting the stage for the fall sitting of Newfoundland and Labrador’s House of Assembly. Should politicians get a raise? Can governments deliver relief today while planning for tomorrow? And what might Bern Coffey’s departure from the Churchill Falls negotiations mean for the political debate? From gas taxes and electricity rebates to medical transportation, legislative priorities, and the delicate numbers inside the House, Andrew and Alex get into the politics behind the headlines—with their usual mix of insight, disagreement, and humour. 💬 What do you think: is an MHA pay raise overdue? Let us know in the comments. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to help The Honourable & The Hack grow.🔔 New episodes every Tuesday at 7 AM Newfoundland time. ⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome: back to the political grind02:08 Matt Walsh, the Newfoundland accent, and rage bait07:57 Should MHAs get a pay raise?15:36 Affordability takes centre stage19:03 Short-term relief versus long-term economic planning22:17 The Liberals’ response: spend more, sooner?25:34 Gas taxes, electricity, and medical transportation27:41 Bern Coffey and the Churchill Falls negotiations34:23 What should we expect from the fall sitting?36:48 Decorum, the Speaker, and the numbers in the House41:33 Closing thoughts and the road to 1,000 subscribers 📬 MAILBAGHave a question, comment, or topic you’d like us to tackle?Email: [email protected] 🔗 STAY CONNECTEDYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121 ⚖️ DISCLAIMERThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any employer, organization, or political party. This podcast is intended for entertainment, discussion, and commentary and does not constitute professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion may include speculation or forward-looking opinions. #TheHonourableAndTheHack #NLPolitics #NewfoundlandAndLabrador

You know her face. You know her voice. But how well do you know the person behind the news?In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill welcome Toni Marie Wiseman for a funny, thoughtful, and deeply personal conversation about her decades in broadcasting and the experiences viewers don’t see on television.From her early days in radio to joining NTV in 1989, Toni Marie shares how a childhood love of interviewing her dolls became a career telling Newfoundland and Labrador’s stories. Along the way came celebrity interviews, an unexpected invitation to watch The Black Crowes in New York, and newsroom practical jokes she hasn’t forgotten.The conversation also takes a serious turn as Toni Marie discusses the challenges she experienced as a woman in broadcasting, the pressure to remain neutral, and the challenge of finding and expressing her own voice.Plus, she recalls spending two nights inside Clarenville’s women’s prison for a reporting assignment, explains why the Janeway Telethon means so much to her, and reflects on how social media has changed the relationship between journalists and their audiences.Along the way, we discuss:• Her journey from radio to the NTV anchor desk• Celebrity interviews and unforgettable entertainment assignments• Changing technology, tough questions, and trust in journalism• Harassment and the scrutiny facing women on television• Finding her voice after decades of professional neutrality• Two nights reporting inside a women’s prison• A hockey pronunciation prank in the radio newsroom• The families behind the Janeway TelethonWhat’s your favourite Toni Marie Wiseman memory or story? Let us know in the comments.CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome and road trip reflections01:55 Introducing Toni Marie Wiseman03:55 From radio to NTV08:02 Turning 60 and embracing gratitude09:50 Entertainment reporting and celebrity encounters17:30 How broadcasting has changed21:28 Social media and trust in journalism27:02 Being a woman in broadcasting32:50 Finding her own voice34:25 Has the industry changed for women?37:21 Reporting inside a women’s prison46:03 Radio pranks and Patrick Roy47:59 Why the Janeway Telethon matters50:33 Tech Tuesday and a career worth celebrating53:35 Andrew and Alex reflect56:05 Closing thoughts and contest reminder📬 MAILBAGHave a question, comment, or topic you’d like us to tackle?Email: [email protected]👍 Like this episode, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who enjoys Newfoundland and Labrador stories, thoughtful discussion, and a good laugh.STAY CONNECTEDYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121DISCLAIMERThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any employer, organization, or political party. This podcast is intended for entertainment, discussion, and commentary and does not constitute professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion may include speculation or forward-looking opinions.#ToniMarieWiseman #TheHonourableAndTheHack #Newfoundland

David Brazil was seriously considering a run for the PC leadership. Hours after returning home from a party convention, he was in emergency. What happened next changed his political future.In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with David Brazil for a candid conversation about leadership, public service, hockey, and life after elected office.From his Bell Island roots to the opposition leader’s office, David shares the stories behind his political career, including being in the caucus room when Danny Williams announced he was finished, and how his hockey coaching experience helped him keep a political team together.They also discuss the health scare that changed his plans, working across party lines during COVID and Hurricane Fiona, and why the political conversations are still flowing at McNiven’s Pub.Then it’s back to the rink for the story of the Bell Island Blues: championship celebrations, a helicopter homecoming, and the surprising origin of a team name that meant much more than hockey.Along the way, we discuss:• Growing up on Bell Island and finding his way into politics• Danny Williams’ resignation during David’s first election campaign• The leadership run that might have been• Managing caucus using lessons from the hockey bench• Political disagreements and cooperation during COVID• Putting partisanship aside after Hurricane Fiona• McNiven’s Pub and political debate over a cold beverage• How the Bell Island Blues gave a community something to celebrateCan political opponents disagree strongly and still work together? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction01:14 David Brazil joins the show02:22 Bell Island roots08:26 Danny Williams’ surprise exit15:52 Leadership and a life-changing health scare20:32 Keeping a political team together24:30 Caucus challenges and COVID29:39 Working across party lines32:41 Politics at McNiven’s Pub37:52 Building the Bell Island Blues44:48 How the Blues got their name48:08 Final reflections📬 MAILBAGHave a question, comment, or topic you’d like us to tackle?Email [email protected]👍 Like this episode, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who enjoys Newfoundland and Labrador stories, politics, and a good conversation.STAY CONNECTEDYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121DISCLAIMERThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any employer, organization, or political party. This podcast is intended for entertainment, discussion, and commentary and does not constitute professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion may include speculation or forward-looking opinions.#DavidBrazil #TheHonourableAndTheHack #NLPolitics

How do you teach a cast to sound like Newfoundlanders? And what does it take to bring a major Netflix production to Newfoundland and Labrador? In this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill go behind the scenes of Netflix’s Below with two special guests: dialect coach Alison Kelly and executive producer Chris Hatcher. First, Alison joins the conversation to discuss her background, the challenge of bringing Newfoundland speech to the screen, and the research behind the show’s accent. From regional differences to the distinctive “townie T,” it’s a conversation about the sounds that help tell our stories. Then, Chris offers a producer’s perspective on making Below in Newfoundland, connecting local talent with the wider entertainment industry, and what productions of this scale can mean for the province. Along the way, we discuss:• Creating a Newfoundland accent for an international audience• Opportunities for local actors, filmmakers and crew• Building a sustainable film and television industry• Film tax credits and the business of production• What major studios can bring to Newfoundland and Labrador• The excitement of seeing our home, and familiar names, on screen Recorded before Below’s release, this double-header captures Andrew and Alex’s anticipation for the series and their curiosity about the people helping bring it to life. Have you watched Below? What did you think of the accents and seeing Newfoundland on screen? Let us know in the comments. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction00:39 Newfoundland Meets Netflix02:35 Introducing Our Two Guests02:55 Alison Kelly Joins the Conversation05:13 Finding Opportunities in the Arts12:04 Creating the Accent and the “Townie T”21:19 A Local Audience Listening Closely24:04 Reflecting on Alison’s Interview24:38 Chris Hatcher Joins the Conversation27:24 How Below Came Together31:21 Building a Film Career in Newfoundland41:13 Local Crew and Familiar Names41:43 What Major Studios Bring to the Province45:43 Andrew and Alex’s Closing Thoughts46:54 Thanks to Guest Producer Hulk Caesar 📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [email protected] or find us on Facebook. 👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie 🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHack Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Saskatchewan cabinet minister Jeremy Harrison joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill for a wide-ranging conversation about political leadership, Western Canada and the future of Canadian energy.Harrison reflects on entering the House of Commons at just 26, moving from federal to provincial politics and the lessons he learned working alongside Stephen Harper, Brad Wall and Scott Moe. He also reveals publicly for the first time whether he intends to seek re-election in 2028.The conversation then turns to Saskatchewan’s energy future, including nuclear power, uranium development, pipelines and the resource investment Canada needs to improve productivity. Harrison also offers a surprisingly positive assessment of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s approach to Western Canada and compares the impact of the Churchill Falls agreement on Newfoundland and Labrador with the lasting political legacy of the National Energy Program in the West.Finally, Harrison discusses raising a family while living in the public eye and what he hopes the Saskatchewan Party’s long-term legacy will be.Chapters00:00 – Introduction01:20 – Jeremy Harrison joins the conversation02:56 – Law school, politics and an unlikely friendship07:19 – Working for Stephen Harper and becoming an MP at 2615:38 – Five Saskatchewan Party majority governments17:16 – Will Jeremy Harrison run again in 2028?23:25 – Working with Brad Wall and Scott Moe24:29 – Harper, Wall and Moe: Three leadership styles30:36 – Saskatchewan’s national political influence34:42 – Overseeing Saskatchewan’s Crown corporations37:10 – Nuclear power and Saskatchewan’s energy future38:37 – Why Harrison is encouraged by Mark Carney41:20 – Federal-provincial cooperation after the Trudeau years43:29 – Pipelines, productivity and resource investment48:22 – Raising children while living in the public eye49:53 – Harrison’s hoped-for political legacy54:25 – Closing thoughtsGet Involved👍 Like this episode if you enjoy thoughtful, candid political conversations.🔔 Subscribe and set your notifications so you don’t miss future episodes of The Honourable & The Hack.💬 Join the conversation: What do you make of Jeremy Harrison’s assessment of Mark Carney and Canada’s changing approach to energy development? Who would you like Andrew and Alex to speak with next?The Honourable & The Hack brings together former Newfoundland and Labrador cabinet minister Andrew Parsons and political commentator Alex Bill for honest conversations about politics, public policy and the people behind the headlines.New episodes every Tuesday at 7:00 AM Newfoundland Time.Watch or ListenYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmyDisclaimerThe Honourable & The Hack is intended for entertainment and thoughtful discussion. The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of their employers, affiliated organizations or any other individual or organization.Nothing discussed in this program should be considered professional advice or official commentary. Viewers and listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and consult additional sources when considering the issues discussed.

Who actually runs a government department — the elected minister, or the person you never voted for and rarely hear from?In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Cory Grandy — a career civil servant who spent more than two decades inside the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, retiring as Deputy Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and now working as a senior adviser with Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro. He is the first deputy minister to join the show.Grandy grew up in rural Newfoundland, finished his engineering degree at Memorial in 1999, and took a junior engineering job with the provincial government because he wanted to stay home. From there the story runs through eight years in Education during school-construction reform, a stint in Municipal Affairs as the provincial director of waste management — the man he jokingly calls "the dump closer" — and a climb through the executive ranks to deputy minister of one of the largest departments in government: the one responsible for the snowplows, the water bombers, the air ambulance, the ferries and the province's biggest construction projects.Much of the conversation goes inside the arrival of public-private partnerships in Newfoundland and Labrador. Grandy led the P3 model that delivered the Corner Brook hospital, the new mental health and addictions facility that replaced the Waterford, and a set of long-term care homes. He talks openly about why 2016 was the hardest year of his career, the myth that big projects shut out local contractors, and the current government's cooler view of the whole approach.He also tells the stories that never made the news — the truth about "Poster Gate," the day well-meaning civil servants started pulling "resign" signs off Confederation Building and the media assumed the order came from the top; what really separates a good cabinet minister from a bad one; why he calls the ferry service a system built on convenience rather than necessity; and the toll that online abuse takes on the people who keep government running.If you care about how Newfoundland and Labrador is actually run, what goes on behind the doors of Confederation Building, or the people who keep government moving no matter who wins the election, this is an episode you will want to watch.If you enjoy conversations that mix politics, culture, business, and real stories from accomplished guests, make sure to like, comment, and [email protected]: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmy Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.Chapters:0:00 A Career Behind the Scenes2:53 From Rural Roots to Public Service7:42 The P3 Model Explained17:44 The Role of a Deputy Minister23:05 Navigating Minister Relationships32:40 The Challenges of Transportation41:48 The Infamous Poster Gate Story53:35 The Future of Public Service

What happens when an accountant unexpectedly finds herself building a career in television, community news and social media?Lori-Lydia Loveless joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill to discuss her unconventional journey from accounting to the Newfoundland Herald, OZFM, NTV and Rogers TV’s Out of the Fog.Lori-Lydia talks about learning to work in front of the camera, covering politics without being labelled partisan, maintaining her trademark positivity while reporting difficult stories, and navigating online criticism. The conversation also explores Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing influencer economy, monetization and paid partnerships, choosing the right social-media platforms—and the surprising phone call that led to Lori-Lydia playing Princess Diana on Son of a Critch. TheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

NTV News co-anchor Michael Connors joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill for a conversation about journalism, political history and the challenge of assembling the ultimate Newfoundland and Labrador cabinet.Connors reflects on growing up in a media-saturated household and traces his career from The Muse and The Telegram to the press gallery and the NTV Evening News Hour. He also discusses Admit Strangers, his book examining the history of the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly Press Gallery and the relationship between journalists and the legislature.Then it is time for H&H’s first Fantasy Cabinet Draft.Michael, Alex and Andrew each become premier for the day and select an ideal cabinet using any provincial cabinet minister who has served since Confederation. Over six rounds, they must appoint ministers responsible for Finance, Natural Resources, Health, Justice and Fisheries before completing their governments with one wild-card selection.The result is a lively debate about some of the most accomplished, influential and memorable political figures in Newfoundland and Labrador history. Once all three cabinets have been assembled, Producer KP steps in to declare the winner.The episode concludes with the announcement of a special H&H contest in partnership with JAG Soundhouse, JAG Hotel and John Steele. One winner will receive two tickets to The Last Waltz 50th Anniversary Celebration on November 10, along with a one-night stay at JAG Hotel. Watch the episode for entry details.Chapters00:00 – Introduction02:31 – Michael Connors joins the conversation02:43 – Growing up surrounded by news and journalism05:28 – From The Muse and The Telegram to NTV News07:23 – Admit Strangers and the House of Assembly Press Gallery12:00 – Why the book matters to politicians and journalists13:30 – Creating the Fantasy Cabinet Draft15:40 – Draft format, rules and strategy20:08 – Round 1: Finance25:05 – Round 2: Natural Resources29:45 – Round 3: Health35:13 – Round 4: Justice42:28 – Round 5: Fisheries49:11 – Round 6: Wild Card55:42 – The completed fantasy cabinets57:27 – Who assembled the strongest cabinet?59:35 – Producer KP announces the winner1:00:48 – The H&H and JAG Hotel/Soundhouse contestGet Involved👍 Like this episode if you enjoy thoughtful political conversations with a little friendly competition.🔔 Subscribe and set your notifications so you don’t miss future episodes of The Honourable & The Hack.💬 Join the conversation: Who assembled the strongest cabinet—Michael Connors, Alex Bill or Andrew Parsons? Which selections would you change? If you could appoint one Newfoundland and Labrador cabinet minister from Confederation to today, who would you choose?The Honourable & The Hack brings together former Newfoundland and Labrador cabinet minister Andrew Parsons and political commentator Alex Bill for honest conversations about politics, public policy and the people behind the headlines.New episodes every Tuesday at 7:00 AM Newfoundland Time.Watch or ListenYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmyDisclaimerThe Honourable & The Hack is intended for entertainment and thoughtful discussion. The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of their employers, affiliated organizations or any other individual or organization.Nothing discussed in this program should be considered professional advice. Viewers and listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and consult additional sources when considering the issues discussed.

What is it really like to lead Newfoundland and Labrador’s Supreme Court—and what challenges are facing the justice system today?Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Chief Justice Raymond P. Whalen, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, as he approaches mandatory retirement after nearly two decades on the bench and more than a decade as Chief Justice.Chief Justice Whalen reflects on growing up in Spaniard’s Bay, beginning his career as a teacher, attending law school and developing broad experience across Newfoundland and Labrador’s legal system before his appointment to the bench.The conversation explores the responsibilities of a Chief Justice, his years serving as the sole Supreme Court judge in Gander, the effects of the Supreme Court of Canada’s Jordan decision, court delays, shortages of judges and support staff, and the constant challenge of securing adequate resources for the justice system.They also discuss Newfoundland and Labrador’s aging courthouse infrastructure, the need for modern technology, family justice, small claims, judicial dress codes and the standards used to investigate complaints against judges.Chief Justice Whalen also reflects on the proudest moments of his judicial career, the importance of the rule of law and the work that remains for his successor.CHAPTERS0:00 Introduction1:34 Chief Justice Raymond Whalen Joins the Conversation2:12 From Spaniard’s Bay to the Legal Profession2:52 Why He Left Teaching for Law4:20 The Value of a Broad Legal Background5:00 How Lawyers Adapt After Joining the Bench8:38 Explaining the Courts to the Public9:20 Trial Judge Versus Chief Justice10:34 Running the Supreme Court12:02 Government, Other Courts and the Judicial Council14:41 Serving as the Sole Supreme Court Judge in Gander17:15 Approaching Mandatory Retirement18:36 The Jordan Decision and Court Delays23:31 Judges, Staff and Courtroom Shortages27:20 Funding the Justice System29:54 The New Family Courthouse and Expanding the Court31:34 Learning From Courts Across Canada35:07 Should the Small Claims Limit Change?37:45 Courtroom Dress Codes41:05 Career Highlights and Unfinished Business46:49 What the Justice System Needs Next47:00 Technology, Staffing and the Rule of Law49:29 Newfoundland and Labrador’s Aging Courthouses52:31 How Judges Are Held Accountable54:47 The Justice Robin Camp Inquiry57:00 Reforming the Judicial Complaint Process59:33 Closing Conversation1:00:24 Andrew and Alex Reflect on the Interview📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or find us on Facebook.👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

What happens behind the scenes of a political party—between elections, during a campaign and on election night?Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Shane Skinner, president of the Progressive Conservative Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, for a candid conversation about his path into politics, rebuilding the party after three consecutive election losses and the campaign that brought the PCs back into government.Shane discusses what the party must do to regain support in the St. John’s metro region, whether his own name will appear on a ballot again, the relationship between the party and Premier Tony Wakeham’s government, and the challenge of keeping volunteers and grassroots members engaged between elections.The conversation also explores the PC Party’s progressive and conservative identities, how differing views are managed inside a broad political coalition, provincial–federal relations, labour support and what election night looks like from inside a winning campaign.Outside politics, Shane discusses his work with Engage Creative, including augmented reality, artificial intelligence, marine navigation, charitable fundraising and a seven-figure contract with the Canadian Navy.Please note: This interview was recorded before the new Churchill Falls agreement was announced. The contents of that agreement are therefore not discussed during the interview.CHAPTERS0:00 Introduction2:02 Shane Skinner Joins the Conversation2:45 Growing Up Around Politics5:18 Running in St. John’s West6:40 Becoming PC Party President7:45 Can the PCs Win in St. John’s Again?10:04 Will Shane Run Again?11:47 The Campaign That Changed Government14:20 Separating the Party and Government15:04 Rebuilding Membership and the Grassroots17:43 What Is the PC Party’s Goal?20:42 What “Progressive Conservative” Means23:32 Inside a Provincial Election Night28:24 Managing a Political Big Tent30:12 Policy Debates Inside the Party32:22 Relations With the Federal Government38:20 Provincial and Federal Conservative Politics40:03 Labour, Trades and the PC Party41:48 Shane Skinner the Entrepreneur43:28 Engage Creative, AI and Marine Technology45:14 The 50/50 Live Fundraising Platform46:07 Defence Opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador48:42 Politics Across Party Lines50:33 Andrew and Alex’s Closing Thoughts📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or find us on Facebook.👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Is the new Churchill Falls agreement actually a better deal for Newfoundland and Labrador?Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill take an in-depth look at the new agreement involving Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec and the federal government. They examine what changed from the 2024 MOU, what the headline numbers really mean and what Newfoundlanders and Labradorians may be missing in the public discussion.The conversation covers market-based pricing versus inflation, power allocations, transmission and wheeling rights, potential wind development, Indigenous participation, Labrador’s mining sector and the political uncertainty surrounding Quebec’s next election.Then, Andrew and Alex turn their attention to Premier Tony Wakeham’s cabinet shuffle. They break down the major portfolio changes, the political timing and what cabinet shuffles are really like from the inside.Let us know what you think: Is this a better Churchill Falls agreement? And did Premier Wakeham make the right cabinet moves?Chapters:0:00 Introduction2:15 What Exactly Is the New Agreement?4:31 Is It Better Than the 2024 MOU?9:06 Understanding the Headline Numbers11:49 What Are We Missing?16:07 Market Pricing Versus Inflation20:13 Transmission and Wheeling Rights23:43 Wind Power and Indigenous Participation31:01 The Critics, Quebec and the Risks33:24 What Happens After the Quebec Election?37:01 Premier Wakeham’s Cabinet Shuffle37:28 The Major Portfolio Changes40:01 Was the Timing Politically Strategic?46:13 A Controversial Cabinet Decision49:30 Was the Cabinet Shuffle a Good Move?50:31 The Backbenchers Who Didn’t Get the Call52:13 What Cabinet Shuffles Are Like Inside Government54:18 Closing Thoughts📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [email protected] or find us on Facebook.👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.#ChurchillFalls #NLPolitics #NewfoundlandAndLabrador

What happens when a politician sits down with the professor who publicly accused him of corruption?This week on The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill welcome Dr. Kelly Blidook—Professor of Political Science at Memorial University of Newfoundland for the past 20 years, Chair of MUN’s Interdisciplinary Research Ethics Board, and author of Constituency Influence in Parliament and co-author of Representation in Action: Canadian MPs in the Constituencies.And the conversation begins exactly where the tension is highest.Following the last provincial election, Dr. Blidook appeared on CBC Radio and described a secret cabinet decision involving ministerial transition allowances as a case of “corruption”—a word that landed hard with Andrew, a former cabinet minister.Rather than avoid the disagreement, they go straight at it.What does “corruption” mean to a political scientist—and what does the word imply to the general public? Can a confidential cabinet decision ever be properly defended? And why does nearly everyone at the table agree that politicians are underpaid for the job?From there, the conversation widens into the real mechanics of political power in Newfoundland and Labrador: the impossible politics of politicians fixing their own salaries, why campaign-finance reform stalls even when governments claim to support it, and the structural weaknesses facing each political party.They examine the NDP’s ideological-purity problem, the PCs’ siege mentality, and the blame game every incoming government plays—until the public stops buying it.Dr. Blidook also explains why so few academics write about Newfoundland and Labrador politics and what that means for who gets to study, interpret and ultimately shape our province’s political story.If you care about Newfoundland and Labrador politics—or want to hear an honest, occasionally uncomfortable debate between a political practitioner and an academic who genuinely disagree—this is an episode you will not want to miss.🎙️ IN THIS EPISODE:• The CBC interview that labelled a cabinet decision “corruption”—and why it angered Andrew• What “corruption” means to a political scientist versus the general public• Why cabinet decisions are confidential by definition—and whether that is a problem• The political catch-22 that keeps elected officials’ salaries frozen across party lines• Andrew on fundraising: “I don’t give a shit if you change campaign finance rules one bit”• Whether money truly buys influence in provincial politics—or merely creates that perception• The NDP’s “weakness is weakness” problem in Newfoundland and Labrador• The PCs, political paranoia and an us-versus-them siege mentality• Muskrat Falls, broken campaign promises and the blame game between governments• Why so few academics write about Newfoundland and Labrador politics👍 LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBEIf you enjoy honest conversations about politics, culture, business and the real stories behind accomplished people, please like the episode, share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe to The Honourable & The Hack.📧 CONTACT [email protected]🎧 WATCH & LISTENYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmyApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121⚠️ DISCLAIMERThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Weathermen don't usually leave a top TV job to go it alone — Eddie Sheer did, and a year later he's not looking back. This week The Honourable & The Hack sits down with Eddie Sheer — meteorologist, founder of Sheer Weather, and one of the most recognized media personalities in Newfoundland and Labrador — to talk about what it actually takes to walk away from the institution and build something independent.In this episode we cover:✅ Eddie's origin story — from a Philadelphia suburb obsessed with Hurricane Andrew to a meteorology career that landed him in St. John's✅ The "buyer's remorse" of his first Newfoundland winter — and why he stayed anyway✅ Why he left NTV to launch Sheer Weather, and what his wife really thought about it✅ The night he called the Mayor of Port aux Basques directly during Hurricane Fiona — and why that call may have saved lives✅ His role as lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit over PFAS "forever chemicals" in Torbay's well water, and Transport Canada's denial of liability✅ His vision for where Sheer Weather goes in the next 10 yearsThis isn't just a weather guy's story — it's a case study in what happens when someone builds their own weather empire instead. Stick around for the Hurricane Fiona story around the 32-minute mark — it's the kind of on-the-ground judgment call that doesn't happen in a newsroom meeting. 📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [email protected] or find us on Facebook.👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

What really happens inside Canada's courtrooms — and what does one of Newfoundland's top criminal defense lawyers think about the system?In Episode 34 of The Honourable and the Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Rosellen Sullivan, KC — a 28-year veteran of the courtroom, former Department of Justice lawyer, and counsel in the Lamer Inquiry — to talk criminal defense, wrongful convictions, and her bold pivot into workplace harassment investigations through Sullivan Investigative Insights.Rosellen built her career defending the presumption of innocence in some of NL's most serious cases. Now she's applying those same skills — cross-examination, credibility assessment, procedural fairness — to workplace investigations at organizations across the country. It's not a retreat from the law. It's a re-deployment of everything she knows.In this episode:✅ How the Lamer Inquiry set Rosellen on the path to criminal defense✅ What it was like to work alongside Justice Antonio Lamer on wrongful convictions✅ The mentors who shaped her: Bob Simmons, Jerome Kennedy & the giants of the NL bar✅ Sullivan Investigative Insights — what workplace harassment investigations actually involve✅ Why criminal defense skills transfer directly to workplace investigations✅ The weaponization problem: how complaints can be misused — and how to guard against it✅ Is crime actually rising in Canada, or is social media manufacturing a moral panic?✅ Why Rosellen thinks the system needs to change✅ Advice for the next generation: why every aspiring lawyer should go to law schoolChapters:0:00 Introduction2:30 Meet Rosellen Sullivan, KC4:00 Origin Story: Following Her Brother Into Law8:30 The Lamer Inquiry: Learning from Wrongful Convictions14:00 Mentors: Bob Simmons, Jerome Kennedy & Justice Lamer19:00 Why Criminal Law Isn't About the Money22:00 Sullivan Investigative Insights: A New Direction27:00 Workplace Harassment Investigations: How They Work33:00 Who Are the Clients?36:00 Complaints, Weaponization & Procedural Fairness39:00 Is Crime Actually Rising in Canada?43:00 The System Is "Completely Broken"47:00 Bail Reform, Adult Diversion & Court Overload50:30 Advice for Aspiring Lawyers52:30 Wrap-Up📬 Got a question for the next mailbag? Email us at [email protected] or find us on Facebook.👍 Like | 🔔 Subscribe | 🎙️ Share it with a fellow political junkie🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Former Premier Roger Grimes holds nothing back in one of our most candid and fiery conversations yet. From a sharp dissection of the issues facing Newfoundland and Labrador to some pointed observations about past political players, this is Roger Grimes speaking plainly—and occasionally taking a few shots along the way! This is easily one of our best episodes of The Honourable & The Hack yet. 🎥 Watch the full interview here:https://youtu.be/hW9nY9ZLxvY 📩 Join the conversation: [email protected] #RogerGrimes #NewfoundlandAndLabrador #NLPolitics #CanadianPolitics #TheHonourableAndTheHack #PoliticalPodcast