Civically Speaking Podcast with Host, Lenore Swystun and Co-Host, Christina Cherneskey

Lenore Swystun, Host, Civically Speaking on Saskatoon's Community Radio Station, CFCR.ca 90.5 FM with co-host, Christina Cherneskey
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Civically speaking is a podcast that focuses on all things civic - focusing in on Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and wider political, geopolitical, and related issues facing us in a 21st-century word. Host, Lenore Swystun, a Registered Professional Planner, Sociologist, and Facilitator together with Communications Specialist and former Journalist, Christina Cherneskey, invites guests and guest panels to discuss all things current and topical. Civically Speaking episodes are self-produced and aired weekly on Saskatoon's community radio station cfcr.ca along with providing podcast versions and special videocast and podcast direct specials. Tune in, try it, and we promise you'll find yourself coming back for more. We talk planning, politics, people - civically speaking!

  1. AUG 19

    2025.08.19 Civically Speaking PT 1 Proposed Emergency Homeless Shelter P2 City Council Draft Strategic Plan 2026-29

    Send us a text Dear Listeners, In this episode, we explore two important conversations shaping Saskatoon’s future. Part 1 – The proposed emergency shelter...looking at what’s being planned, how the community is responding, and why thoughtful approaches to shelter and support matter. Part 2 – The City’s proposed Strategic Plan...we unpack the priorities, and questions it raises about where Saskatoon is heading. Join me for a thoughtful discussion about people, policy, and the choices that shape our community. Civically speaking, Lenore Swystun, Host Regrets from Christina Cherneskey ...we are still on summer time scheduling Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    56 min

  2. AUG 6

    2025.08.05 Civically Speaking - Midsummer Edition - After the August Long

    Send us a text Dear Listeners, Thanks for tuning in to this midsummer edition of Civically Speaking.   I am flying solo again - giving Christina a well deserved summer break.  In this 2 part episode focus on some Saskatoon and Regina civic updates and touch on some provincial and federal news stories.' Some you may know - some you may not know. If you have ideas - reach out. In the meantime - enjoy a summer that is truly flying by. Civically Speaking, Your host, Lenore Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    56 min

  3. JUL 23

    2024.07.22 Civically Speaking - Building Cities that Remember and Include - and Yesterday's News

    Send us a text Hello Dear Listeners,  It’s just me on the mic today—flying solo while giving the rest of the crew a little break. But that also means space for some quirky deep dives and thoughtful wanderings. In this episode, we kick things off with a look at what it really means to build inclusive communities. And not just in theory—this includes access to spaces, the role of heritage places, spaces and stories, and how we shape our streets, neighbourhoods, and shared places to better welcome everyone. Then in the second half, I’ll turn the lens to news stories from around the world—and right here at home. But not just the headlines. We’ll ask: What kind of news do we rely on? What narratives shape our understanding? And why is it more important than ever to read between the lines? Grab a cup of something cozy, or settle in wherever you are. Let’s get into it. And remember, community radio - so good. Juicy really - CFCR.ca 90.5 FM Civically Speaking, Lenore (regrets from Christina - summer is flying) Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    55 min

  4. JUN 25

    2025.06.24 Civically Speaking Trump launches missles and f-bombs - to Transit Links, Bear Spray and stories closer to home...

    Send us a text Dear Listeners, Thanks for tuning in! Summer's here—and so is a wave of stories making headlines. From global power shifts to the future of transit right here in our city, Christina and I are diving into what matters most to Saskatoon. We’ll connect the dots between the international stage and what's happening on our streets—because it’s all connected. Civically speaking, Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    56 min

  5. JUN 18

    2025.06.17 Civically Speaking. Tanking, G7 and a whole lotta chatta

    Send us a text Hello Dear Listeners, This week on Civically Speaking, we start with big local media news: long-time columnist and civic affairs writer Phil Tank has been let go from the Saskatoon StarPhoenix. What does this mean for local journalism and public accountability in our city? From there, we zoom out to the G7 Summit and Canada’s renewed commitment to Ukraine — including extended military aid and support for rebuilding efforts. What does this say about Canada’s role on the world stage? And how does that global responsibility ripple back into our own communities? Then we shift gears to local musings and matters: Saskatchewan wildfires are tampered a bit by rains in the north but hearts out to communities. Summer events are heating up across the province, from festivals to family days — get out and enjoy!And a special shout-out to Yorkton’s historic Four Mill, a striking symbol of prairie industry and perseverance — what stories do our heritage buildings still have to tell?All that and more, right here on Civically Speaking — where local meets global, and reflection meets action. Civically speaking, Lenore Swystun with regrets from Christina Cherneskey Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    53 min

  6. JUN 10

    2025.06.10 Civically Speaking ICE, Wild Fires, City Budget Saskatoon, Strawberry Moon

    Send us a text Hello Dear Listeners, This week on Civically Speaking, we unpack a mix of local and global headlines that matter: 🇺🇸 ICE Raids & U.S. Political Tensions – South of the border, sweeping ICE raids in Los Angeles and a war of words between Elon Musk and Donald Trump are heating up the pre-election climate. What does this say about democracy, justice, and global influence? 🔥 Wildfires in Saskatchewan – Over 15,000 residents have been displaced due to this year’s intense wildfire season. We share updates on emergency supports, evacuation sites, and how people across the province are stepping up. 📞 For wildfire information, call the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency’s toll-free line: 1-855-559-5502 🏛️ Saskatoon’s Civic Budget Forecast – A projected 9.9% property tax increase for 2026 is on the table. What’s behind the numbers? How are services like transit, police, and fire shaping this bold proposal? We begin to break it down. 🌕 The Strawberry Moon Rises – June’s full moon, traditionally known as the Strawberry Moon, lights up the sky this week. A moment of beauty, harvest, and reflection amid the chaos. 🐈 A Sphinx Cat Cameo? Yes. You’ll have to tune in. 🗣️ thanks for tuning in, Civically Speaking, Lenore and Christina  Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    57 min

  7. JUN 3

    2025.06.03 Civically Speaking – Episode Title: Part 1: Wildfires & Philanthropy in Action with Rachael Steinke and Fred Reibin Part 2: First Ministers, Homelessness, E-Scooters & Summer Soundscapes in Saskatoon

    Send us a text Dear Listeners, This week on Civically Speaking, we bring you an important two-part episode exploring the stories, issues, and voices shaping Saskatoon. Part 1: Wildfires, Community Response & Philanthropy in Action Lenore Swystun sits down with Rachael Steinke, Chief Executive Officer of the Saskatoon Community Foundation, and Fred Reibin, Shareholder Engagement Lead and Brand Manager, to talk about how this season’s wildfires are impacting communities across Saskatchewan—and how local organizations are responding. Rachael and Fred spotlight the role of the Saskatoon Community Foundation, CUMFI (Central Urban Métis Federation Inc.), and the United Way of Saskatoon and Area in mobilizing urgent support and long-term recovery along with other key organizations including the Canadian Red Cross. Part 2: What’s Making News in Saskatoon In the second half, we turn to timely civic issues, including the First Ministers’ Meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney held recently in Saskatoon. We also check in on the homelessness situation, share thoughts on  e-scooters, and round things out with a local summertime classic: a candid (and slightly comedic) rant about revving engines and late-night noise. Tune in to stay informed, feel connected, and join the civic conversation. Civically Speaking, Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    56 min

  8. MAY 27

    2025.05.27 Civically Speaking Updates with Phil Tank, Digital Opinion Editor/Columnist with the Saskatoon StarPhoenix

    Send us a text Dear Listeners, Thanks for tuning in.  In this episode of Civically Speaking, I sit down with Phil Tank, Digital Opinion Editor at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix, for a wide-ranging conversation about what’s at stake in Saskatchewan politics right now—both provincially and locally. We explore Saskatchewan’s place in the broader Prairie context, with reflections on Alberta and Manitoba, and discuss the significance of the upcoming First Ministers Meeting happening right here in Saskatoon. Locally, we unpack Mayor Cynthia Block’s State of the City Address and what it signals for the city’s future. A timely conversation about political direction, leadership, and the choices ahead.  Have a listen. Support local media and shows just like this.  Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.

    57 min
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About

Civically speaking is a podcast that focuses on all things civic - focusing in on Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and wider political, geopolitical, and related issues facing us in a 21st-century word. Host, Lenore Swystun, a Registered Professional Planner, Sociologist, and Facilitator together with Communications Specialist and former Journalist, Christina Cherneskey, invites guests and guest panels to discuss all things current and topical. Civically Speaking episodes are self-produced and aired weekly on Saskatoon's community radio station cfcr.ca along with providing podcast versions and special videocast and podcast direct specials. Tune in, try it, and we promise you'll find yourself coming back for more. We talk planning, politics, people - civically speaking!

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