NOW and NEXT

Dave Trafford
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Welcome In! This is NOW and NEXT:   What’s happening NOW and how does that inform what’s happening NEXT?   Veteran journalist and “Recovering News Director”, Dave Trafford hosts and produces this weekly news commentary podcast. It offers made-in-Canada, independent, unique analysis of the current stories and issues affecting your family, your business, your health, and your pocketbook.  Based in Toronto, NOW and NEXT offers insights on local, provincial, national and international issues. Regular contributors include our bi-weekly RoundTable with the Now and Next C.A.S.T (Comms and Strategy Team!)  Lindsay Broadhead brings her comms experience and insights base on her time leading teams in the private and public sectors.Bob Reid applies his earned experience as a major market journalist and a Senior Advisor to the Premier of Ontario to his analysis of the communications "Touchdowns and Fumbles".Anne Marie Aikins is a "media relations maven", a sought after pundit and speaker, and a strategic comms adviser specializing in public transit in Ontario.NOW: You’re up to date. NEXT: Subscribe to the podcast!

  1. 2D AGO

    From Trade Wars to Shooting Wars: Insights from Futurist Richard Worzel

    The world feels increasingly unpredictable — but how did we get here, and what might come next? In this episode of Now and Next, host Dave Trafford speaks with futurist Richard Worzel about the forces reshaping global politics, economics, and geopolitics. Rather than predicting the future, Worzel explains how futurists analyze current trends to help governments and businesses prepare for uncertainty. Their conversation explores how decades of globalization helped lift millions out of poverty but also created economic dislocation that fueled populist political movements across the Western world. They also discuss the evolving trade relationship between Canada and the United States, the strategic differences between leaders, and how energy policy and EV manufacturing could reshape economic alliances. The discussion widens to the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the risks of broader conflict involving multiple global powers. Worzel also explains why today’s economic strength may be more fragile than it appears — and why corporations and governments should focus on resilience rather than expansion. If you’re trying to understand the forces shaping the global economy, geopolitics, and the uncertain road ahead, this conversation offers valuable insight into the risks, possibilities, and strategic choices facing the world right now. Subscribe for more conversations exploring what’s happening now — and what might be coming next. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Now and Next Dave Trafford introduces futurist Richard Worzel and discusses the role of futurists in preparing for uncertainty rather than predicting the future. 02:00 – How Decades of Globalization Led to Today’s Political Instability Worzel explains how globalization created prosperity for many but also left some communities behind, helping fuel modern populist politics. 07:00 – Trade Strategy: Canada vs. the United States Discussion of trade negotiations, Canada’s strategic preparation, and how shifting global alliances and energy markets influence bargaining power. 12:45 – Oil, EVs, and the Future of Energy and Trade How energy policy, EV manufacturing, and supply chains may reshape economic relationships between Canada, the U.S., and global markets. 15:00 – Escalation in the Middle East and Global Risk Worzel analyzes the geopolitical dynamics behind the U.S.–Iran conflict and how regional tensions could widen into a larger international crisis. 20:15 – What Governments and Businesses Should Do Now Preparing for worst-case scenarios, protecting financial stability, and understanding the fragility of the current economic system. 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.

    25 min

  2. 4D AGO

    Are the Iran Air Strikes Working?

    The air campaign involving Iran has entered its second week—but what are the actual military objectives, and are they achievable? In this episode of Now and Next, host Dave Trafford speaks with retired RCAF Major General Scott Clancy, former Director of Operations at NORAD, about the evolving conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Clancy breaks down the key military goals identified by the U.S. administration—including Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile capabilities, and naval threats to shipping in the Gulf—and explains how those objectives translate into real operational planning. They also explore how modern air campaigns measure success, why a reduction in missile launches may not mean the conflict is winding down, and how political messaging can complicate military strategy. Drawing on historical examples such as the Kosovo air campaign and the Libya intervention, Clancy explains why assumptions about regime change or popular uprisings in Iran may be dangerously simplistic. This conversation offers a clear, strategic look at what may happen next—and whether the current objectives point to a limited operation or a much longer conflict. Topics covered in this episode: The military objectives behind the Iran air campaign Attrition and how air wars are measured Iran’s missile capabilities and naval threats Why regime change assumptions may be flawed Lessons from Kosovo and Libya Subscribe for more conversations on geopolitics, leadership, and global strategy. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction Dave Trafford introduces retired Major General Scott Clancy and the ongoing air campaign involving Iran. 01:30 — Defining the Military Objectives Clancy explains the administration’s stated goals: nuclear capability, ballistic missiles, and Iranian naval threats. 05:56 — Air Campaigns and the Reality of Attrition How military planners measure success—and why fewer missile attacks may not mean victory. 08:43 — The Risks of Misreading Iran’s Internal Politics Why assumptions about regime change or popular uprising may be misguided. 09:55 — What Victory Actually Looks Like Whether achievable military objectives could realistically bring the conflict to an end. 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.

    26 min
  3. Poilievre’s “Stoic” Pivot - Inside the Strategy Behind His New Political Tone

    MAR 4

    Poilievre’s “Stoic” Pivot - Inside the Strategy Behind His New Political Tone

    Canadian politics is shifting—and so is the tone of its key players. In this episode of Now and Next, Dave Trafford is joined by our C.A.S.T. (Comms And Strategy Team) Bob Reid, Lindsay Broadhead, and Anne-Marie Aikins to break down the latest developments shaping Canada’s political narrative. The panel explores whether Pierre Poilievre is intentionally repositioning himself, following recent appearances—including a speech in Toronto and an interview with Peter Mansbridge. He's pivoted to a calmer and more “stoic” style hoping to expands his reach beyond his traditional base. Is this a genuine evolution—or a strategic pivot designed to win over new voters? They also examine Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership approach, as he focuses heavily on global diplomacy and trade relationships. While those moves may strengthen Canada internationally, could they leave space for opponents to reconnect with voters on everyday economic concerns at home? The conversation then shifts to crisis communications and global uncertainty, including rising tensions in the Middle East and the communications challenges Canada could face as it prepares to host FIFA World Cup matches amid global instability. From political strategy to international events, this episode explores how messaging, perception, and leadership style are shaping what comes now—and what comes next. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction Dave introduces the panel and frames the rapid pace of political and global developments shaping the discussion. 02:00 — Poilievre’s “Stoic” Rebrand Analysis of Poilievre’s evolving tone, recent speeches, and interviews, and whether the shift is authentic or strategic. 09:00 — Opposition Strategy vs. Carney’s Leadership How Poilievre is repositioning himself against a globally focused prime minister. 21:20 — Domestic Politics vs. Global Leadership Debate over whether international diplomacy risks disconnecting leadership from Canadians’ kitchen-table concerns. 32:20 — Crisis Communications and the FIFA World Cup How governments and communicators must prepare for protests, security issues, and geopolitical tensions during a global sporting event. 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.

    50 min
  4. John Tory Won't Challenge Olivia Chow

    MAR 4

    John Tory Won't Challenge Olivia Chow

    Former Toronto mayor John Tory says he won’t return to politics — and that decision reshapes the conversation about Toronto’s next mayor. In this Radio Days edition of Now and Next, Dave Trafford joins the Moore in the Morning roundtable on NewsTalk 1010 with Tim Hudak and Tamara Cherry to unpack the implications of Tory stepping away from a potential mayoral comeback. The discussion revisits the controversy surrounding his resignation, the integrity commissioner’s findings, and why any return to politics would have faced intense scrutiny. From there, the panel looks ahead to Toronto’s political landscape. With Olivia Chow and Brad Bradford emerging as key contenders, the conversation turns to polling, name recognition, and whether the mayoral race will expand beyond a two-candidate contest. Dave argues that the city needs more than campaign messaging around small fixes — Toronto needs bold ideas and structural change if it’s going to tackle affordability, housing, and the challenges facing the city. The episode wraps with a broader discussion about Mark Carney's comments on the US/Israeli war on Iran. Is the PM backtracking or is he clarifying Canada's position on the air strikes? 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.

    14 min

  5. FEB 28

    Doug Ford's son-in-law facing 15 Toronto Police Charges

    What happens when a Toronto Police staff sergeant — who also happens to be the Premier’s son-in-law — faces 15 disciplinary charges? In this episode of Now and Next, Dave Trafford sits down with Village Media journalist Gabe Oatley to break down the case involving Dave Haynes. These are not criminal charges — but they are serious. We unpack the allegations of insubordination, discreditable conduct, and breach of confidence, and explain where the hearing stands right now. The conversation digs into the “abuse of process” motion filed by Haynes’ lawyer, the whistleblower argument being advanced, and what internal emails and testimony have revealed so far. We also explore the tension between freedom of expression and chain of command inside a police service — and why this case is getting more attention than most disciplinary proceedings. This is about transparency, accountability, and how internal police discipline actually works. Follow, subscribe, and stay with us as this story develops. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction Dave introduces Gabe Oatley and the background of the disciplinary case. 02:22 – The Charges Explained Clarifying the 15 disciplinary charges and separating them from criminal allegations. 03:09 – Abuse of Process Motion Haynes’ legal strategy and whistleblower claims. 08:19 – Evidence and Internal Emails Mass emails, certification issues, and internal tensions. 12:48 – The Ford Connection & Media Attention Why this case is drawing public scrutiny. 15:41 – The Police Association’s Role Union representation, precedent concerns, and broader implications 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.

    18 min
  6. RADIO DAYS with John Moore: Do we REALLY need to shop on Family Day?

    FEB 18

    RADIO DAYS with John Moore: Do we REALLY need to shop on Family Day?

    THIS WEEK: I sat in on ROUND ONE on Moore in the Morning on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto. Javani speaks for himself. Poilevre speaks for the PartyDoug Ford wants to allow retail shopping on Family Day (really?)Ford says waste OSAP on "nice watches and cologne"Auto Insurance unaffordable for Ontario drivers. 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.

    13 min
  7. From Tumbler Ridge to Parliament Hill - the Messager makes the Message

    FEB 17

    From Tumbler Ridge to Parliament Hill - the Messager makes the Message

    This week on Now and Next, the CAST — our Communications And Strategy Team — Bob Reid (Broadway Strategy and Communications), Anne Marie Aikins (AMA Communications), Lindsay Broadhead (Broadhead Communications) breaks down the stories when communications wasn’t background noise… it was the headline. We begin with the response to the Tumbler Ridge school shooting and examine what effective crisis communications looks like in real time. From Premier David Eby’s remarks to the image of federal leaders standing together, we explore tone, humility, and whether political adversaries can momentarily transcend partisanship. Then: Metrolinx. A derailment at Union Station caused system-wide disruption — but the bigger issue was transparency. Why did it take so long to explain what happened? And what role should a CEO play in moments of operational consequence? Finally, we unpack a viral parliamentary exchange between Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Corey and MP Sandra Cobena. Was refusing to “give the clip” smart strategy — or a communications misfire? As always, we focus on the intersection of leadership, strategy, and the stories behind the story. Subscribe for more conversations on politics, policy, and the communications shaping both. ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: A Week Where Comms Led the Headlines 01:28 – Tumbler Ridge: Crisis Leadership, Tone, and Media Framing 13:56 – Message vs. Messenger: Carney, Poilievre & Political Pivot Points 29:58 – Metrolinx Derailment: Transparency, CEO Visibility & Operational Comms 42:41 – Ottawa Theatre: Canada Infrastructure Bank & “Giving the Clip” 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.

    54 min
  8. Party for Two with Jerry Agar - Toronto's Snow Removal Strategy: WAIT FOR WARMER WEATHER

    FEB 16

    Party for Two with Jerry Agar - Toronto's Snow Removal Strategy: WAIT FOR WARMER WEATHER

    THIS IS A “RADIO DAYS” EPISODE OF NOW AND NEXT! This week: I had the chance to join Jerry Agar on Newstalk 1010 for his PARTY OF TWO. Canadian Curlers dropping F-bombs after being accused of cheating in MilanToronto's answer to snow removal? Wait for warmer weather.Cheers to Crown Royal! Doug Ford backs off threats to ban the whisky from LCBOShould business consider allowing employees to take paid sabbaticals? 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.

    11 min
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About

Welcome In! This is NOW and NEXT:   What’s happening NOW and how does that inform what’s happening NEXT?   Veteran journalist and “Recovering News Director”, Dave Trafford hosts and produces this weekly news commentary podcast. It offers made-in-Canada, independent, unique analysis of the current stories and issues affecting your family, your business, your health, and your pocketbook.  Based in Toronto, NOW and NEXT offers insights on local, provincial, national and international issues. Regular contributors include our bi-weekly RoundTable with the Now and Next C.A.S.T (Comms and Strategy Team!)  Lindsay Broadhead brings her comms experience and insights base on her time leading teams in the private and public sectors.Bob Reid applies his earned experience as a major market journalist and a Senior Advisor to the Premier of Ontario to his analysis of the communications "Touchdowns and Fumbles".Anne Marie Aikins is a "media relations maven", a sought after pundit and speaker, and a strategic comms adviser specializing in public transit in Ontario.NOW: You’re up to date. NEXT: Subscribe to the podcast!

Information

  • Creator
    Dave Trafford
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    401
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Dave Trafford & iContact Productions
  • Show Website
    NOW and NEXT

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