NOW and NEXT

Dave Trafford
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  • Politics
  • Updated Weekly

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. May 29

    Does the Toronto Police Service face a Trust Crisis

    Is the Toronto Police Service facing a Trust Crisis. Can you separate Danielle Smith - the Federalist from Danielle Smith the Sovereigntist? Doug Ford’s “gravy plane.” is still a THING. And somehow… flip phones and Pizza Pizza nostalgia are trending. . This week on Now and Next, Dave Trafford is joined by the C.A.S.T. roundtable (The Comms And Strategy Team) — Lindsay Broadhead, Anne Marie Aikins, and Bob Reid — for a wide-ranging conversation about trust, leadership, and the power of political storytelling. The panel breaks down the growing reputational crisis facing the Toronto Police Service following corruption allegations and misconduct investigations involving officers both at home and abroad. They examine whether strong words from leadership are enough to rebuild public confidence — or whether systemic cultural change is required. The conversation then shifts west to Alberta, where Danielle Smith’s referendum strategy continues to fuel confusion and tension around sovereignty, federalism, and Western alienation. The group explores the political calculations behind the messaging and what it could mean for national unity. The team also digs into Doug Ford’s aircraft controversy and why the “gravy plane” narrative became so politically sticky — turning into a larger symbol about transparency, branding, and public trust. And finally, a lighter but revealing discussion: why consumers are suddenly embracing retro brands, flip phones, and 1990s nostalgia in response to modern stress, polarization, and digital overload. Plus: Dave previews a fascinating upcoming conversation with Dr. Cindy Locke of Pickering College about experiential learning and how education can create real-world civic impact. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and the Toronto Police Crisis Dave Trafford introduces the panel and opens discussion on corruption allegations, public trust, and the impact of police misconduct on institutional credibility. 11:16 – Anti-Semitism Allegations and Leadership Challenges The panel discusses Hank Idsinga’s allegations about anti-Semitism within Toronto police culture and the communications challenges facing Chief Myron Demkiw. 20:26 – Alberta Separation, Danielle Smith, and National Unity A deep dive into Alberta’s referendum debate, Western alienation, federalism, and the political strategy behind separatist rhetoric. 33:26 – Doug Ford’s “Gravy Plane” Problem The group analyzes the Ontario government’s mishandling of its aircraft controversy and why the issue evolved into a broader metaphor about trust and political branding. 43:15 – Nostalgia Branding, Flip Phones, and Escaping Modern Anxiety The panel explores why brands are reviving retro aesthetics and why consumers are craving simpler, pre-social media experiences. 50:39 – Education Innovation and Pickering College Dave previews an upcoming interview with Dr. Cindy Locke about experiential learning, civic engagement, and rethinking traditional education models. 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.

    53 min

  2. May 25

    How AI and Project Based Learning Can Save our Education System

    What should school look like in an age of AI, anxiety, disengagement, and rapid social change? In this episode of NOW and NEXT, Dave Trafford speaks with educator and author Dr. Cinde Lock about redesigning education for a generation that needs more than standardized testing and rigid curriculum structures. Drawing on innovative programs developed at Pickering College, Dr. Lock explains how schools can connect academics to purpose, community engagement, entrepreneurship, creativity, and real-world problem solving. The conversation explores why traditional education models are struggling to keep students engaged, how AI could help personalize learning, and why the future of school may depend on giving students greater ownership over what and how they learn. Dave and Dr. Lock also discuss: Student mental health and absenteeismProject-based and experiential learningAI-assisted curriculum designCivic engagement and community partnershipsEntrepreneurship, creativity, and resilienceThe future role of teachersWhy education systems must evolve beyond industrial-age thinking The episode also features remarkable examples of students working on homelessness awareness campaigns, environmental restoration projects, bee hive sustainability initiatives, and community advocacy efforts that produced real-world impact beyond the classroom. Dr. Lock’s new book, Connections, Academics and Purpose: Designing the Future of School, explores how education systems can evolve to better prepare students for an uncertain future while helping them discover meaning, purpose, and confidence along the way. Chapters 00:00 - Dave welcomes you to this special edition of NOW and NEXT. 03:00 — Introduction: Designing the Future of School Dave Trafford introduces Dr. Cinde Lock and the conversation about rethinking education beyond the traditional classroom model. 08:59 — Testing, Standardized Assessments and Student Anxiety The discussion examines EQAO testing, academic pressure, and whether schools have become too focused on evaluation rather than engagement. 14:46 — AI, Personalized Learning and Student-Driven Curriculum Dr. Lock outlines a future-facing vision where students navigate curriculum through personalized projects, mentorship, and AI-supported learning systems. 23:34 — Breaking the System: Scaling Educational Innovation Can innovative learning models work beyond elite schools? The conversation turns to implementation, teacher culture, and public education reform. 34:08 — Real-World Learning: Homelessness, Civic Engagement and Community Impact Students work with Blue Door and local organizations to tackle homelessness stigma, influencing public debate and local political thinking. 40:43 — Failure, Resilience and Why Real Learning Matters From bee hive collapses to environmental restoration projects, Dr. Lock explains why experimentation, setbacks, and iteration are essential parts of meaningful education. 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.

    46 min

  3. May 1

    Big Ideas, Bigger Problems - When Political Messaging Works—and When It Fails

    Dave Trafford is back with a new episode of Now and Next, joined by Bob Reid, Anne Marie Aikins, and Lindsay Broadhead for a sharp, insightful breakdown of the biggest political and communications stories shaping Canada right now. This episode digs into the federal government’s proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund—what it is, what it isn’t, and why so many Canadians are struggling to understand it. The panel explores the growing gap between complex policy and real-life impact, and why even the smartest ideas can fail without clear, relatable communication. The conversation also takes on Ontario politics, including Doug Ford’s recent communications challenges, the risks of going off-brand, and how political narratives can quickly shift. Plus, a look at transparency, freedom of information changes, and why limiting access may actually lead to more leaks and less trust. Finally, the team examines generational economic pressure—how younger Canadians are navigating financial uncertainty, social media influence, and a very different path to success than previous generations. If you’re interested in politics, strategy, and how communication shapes public opinion, this episode connects the dots between what governments say—and what people actually hear. Subscribe for more conversations on what’s happening now—and what comes next. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction Dave returns and sets the stage for a discussion on current political and economic issues. 02:00 — The Sovereign Wealth Fund Explained (or Not) Panel debates the purpose, risks, and lack of clarity around the federal proposal. 12:00 — Communications vs. Complexity in Government Policy Why “too smart by half” messaging can fail to resonate with the public. 26:30 — Doug Ford’s Off-Brand Week Analysis of recent Ontario government communications missteps and their impact. 45:00 — Transparency, FOI Changes, and the Rise of Leaks How limiting access to information may fuel more leaks and public distrust. 48:30 — Gen Z, Wealth Pressure, and Economic Reality A look at financial stress, shifting expectations, and the influence of digital culture. 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.

    58 min
  4. From Apollo 11 to Artemis ll. From the Earth to the Moon

    Apr 2

    From Apollo 11 to Artemis ll. From the Earth to the Moon

    As Artemis II captures global attention, this episode of Now and Next takes a step back to revisit the moment that started it all—Apollo 11. Host Dave Trafford weaves together archival audio, historical context, and personal storytelling to explore how humanity first reached the Moon—and why it still matters today. From Jules Verne’s early vision to President Kennedy’s bold challenge, and from liftoff to landing, this episode relives the defining moments of Apollo 11. We also explore the risks, setbacks, and political realities behind the mission, and hear a remarkable firsthand story connecting one family directly to NASA’s early work and the original astronauts. As Artemis II begins its journey, this episode asks: what drives us to go back—and what does it say about where we’re headed next? #ArtemisII #Apollo11 #SpaceExploration #NASA #NowAndNext Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Artemis II Context Dave Trafford sets the stage with the ongoing Artemis II mission and global attention around it.02:55 – From Imagination to Mission Jules Verne’s vision and Kennedy’s call to reach the Moon.04:19 – Apollo 11 Launch & Global Moment Walter Cronkite’s coverage and the historic Saturn V launch.10:18 – Lunar Landing & First Steps Armstrong and Aldrin land and walk on the Moon.13:17 – Risks, Return & Legacy Challenges of the mission, safe return, and global impact.20:35 – Personal Connection to NASA Frank Cohn shares a firsthand family story tied to early NASA and the astronaut era. 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.

    28 min
  5. Poilievre wants to kill hi-speed rail and remembering Stephen Lewis

    Apr 1

    Poilievre wants to kill hi-speed rail and remembering Stephen Lewis

    This week on Moore in the Morning on NEWSTALK 1010, Tim Hudak, Tamara Cherry and I were at the Roundtable talking about: More food trucks, vendors and buskers could flood Toronto’s streets amid potential rule changePoilievre calls for cancellation of multibillion-dollar high-speed rail projectVictim Services Toronto expands 'Ask for Angela' safety campaign ahead of World CupStephen Lewis, former Canadian ambassador to the UN and father of NDP leader Avi Lewis, dead at 88 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

  6. Mar 31

    Avi Lewis sets a new tone and message for the NDP and Air Canada gets it wrong in both languages

    This week on Now and Next, Dave Trafford and the comms and strategy team break down the stories shaping Canada’s political and media landscape. Guests: Bob Reid - Broadway Strategy & Communications  Lindsay Broadhead - Broadhead Communications Anne Marie Aikins - AMA Communications First, the panel dives into the NDP leadership race and what Avi Lewis’ win reveals about the party’s identity, messaging, and future. Is the NDP aligned with what Canadians are actually worried about—or drifting further from the national conversation? Then, a sharp look at Air Canada’s crisis communications response following a tragic aviation incident. What went wrong on tone, language, and leadership—and what should have happened instead? Finally, the Junos take centre stage. With the Prime Minister making headlines and Canadian music icons back in the spotlight, the panel explores how culture, politics, and communications collide—and why moments like this still matter. Three big stories. One consistent lens: strategy, messaging, and what actually resonates. Subscribe for more conversations on politics, communications, and the forces shaping what’s now—and what’s next. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction Welcome and overview of this week’s communications-focused discussion.01:00 – NDP Leadership & Identity Crisis Avi Lewis’ leadership win sparks debate about the party’s direction, messaging, and national relevance.07:00 – Messaging vs Reality in Politics Panel explores whether ideology, leadership style, and messaging align with voter concerns.12:30 – Air Canada Crisis Communications Breakdown Analysis of tone, bilingual expectations, and leadership accountability in crisis response.29:40 – The Junos, Politics & Cultural Signaling Prime Minister’s appearance, Canadian identity, and the communications power of cultural events. 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.

    41 min
  7. Radio Days with Jim Richards - What resonates more: the provincial budget or the Jays' home opener?

    Mar 27

    Radio Days with Jim Richards - What resonates more: the provincial budget or the Jays' home opener?

    Always fun to join Jim Richards on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto. We closed the week out riffing on the provincial budget from the Ford government. Big on spending. Short on plans. 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.

    10 min
  8. Where did $50m in unredeemed booze bottle deposits go?

    Mar 24

    Where did $50m in unredeemed booze bottle deposits go?

    It's another RADIO DAYS edition of Now and NEXT: I sat in with Gene Valaitis on 610 CKTB! And it was a jam packed session: At least $50 million in depostis went unredeemed in Ontario in 2024. I'm betting that number will be even higher when we do accounting for 2025! The bottle/cans are landing in overly stressed municipal recycling bins and that cash is sitting in LCBO coffers. Why? It's no coincidence these numbers spiked when we started closing Beer Stores across the province.Canadian travel abroad outpaced ground trips to the US in January 2026 for the first time since 1972! Bill Cosby found guilty of sexual assault in a civil lawsuit. He's ordered to pay $19.25 million in reparations. What's most remarkable about this is the lack of any significant coverage this trial got in the media. AND Premier Doug Ford doubles down on his government's plan to gut the Freedom of Information Act admitting he doesn't want anyone knowing what confidential conversations he's having every day. 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.

    27 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
    413
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Dave Trafford & iContact Productions
  • Show Website
    NOW and NEXT

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