Best Shawn Whatley Podcasts (2025)

1
#35 Peter Copeland: The politics of Pope Leo XIV. What can we expect from the new pope? 51:27

1d ago51:27

51:27

Pope Leo's election garnered far more interest than usual. We are in a time of great change. People are paying attention. The Pope shapes public opinion, and people are eager to know what Pope Leo might say. I asked Peter all the most provocative political questions I could imagine. What might the Pope think about resource development, immigration,…

1
Building a World Where We All Belong (and Get Along) with Anu Gupta 32:30

2d ago32:30

32:30

In a time of deep division and unease, overcoming our loneliness and uncertainty is a massive challenge. This week, award-winning author, educator, lawyer, scientist, and meditation teacher Anu Gupta sits down with host Paula Felps to explain how — and where — we can start. His best-selling book, Breaking Bias: Where Stereotypes and Prejudices Come…

1
Rewriting the Rules of Mental Health With Dominic Lawson 26:55

8d ago26:55

26:55

As we wrap up mental health awareness month, it’s a great time to talk with someone who is literally changing how we talk about mental health. This week, host Paula Felps is joined by Dominic Lawson, an accomplished, award-winning podcaster whose new show, Mental Health Rewritten, is tackling stigmatized mental health topics head-on. By taking on i…

1
#34 David Livingstone: Radical Conservatives, postmodernism, and D'Arcy McGee on Canada's Founding 1:03:35

9d ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Dr. Livingstone worries about postmodernism destroying Truth. I worry about about postmodernism destroying history as a way to understand the present. David says we need universals to resist postmoderns. I say we should fear universals lest the postmoderns inflict us with their 'values'. In this episode we resolve the debate (sort of). Thanks for w…

1
How to Create an Unstoppable Brain With Dr. Kyra Bobinet 30:48

16d ago30:48

30:48

Our brains are incredibly powerful, and the trick is to learn how to make them work for us, not against us. This week, host Paula Felps sits down with Dr. Kyra Bobinet, a physician, public health leader, and behavior change designer whose work focuses on how to build optimal health for a more fulfilling life. Her new book, Unstoppable Brain: The Ne…

1
#33 John von Heyking on political friendship, pro-Hamas protests, and the future of Canada. 53:27

16d ago53:27

53:27

Can a country survive if we aren't united about common fundamental matters? Pro-Hamas protests block streets in Toronto. They have even forced ambulances to turn around. This has really bothered me. Aside from basic procedural solutions -- keeping a lane open for emergency vehicles or having police enforce the law -- can we solve the deeper, existe…

1
#32 Mark Carney and Justin Trudeau are universalists. Donald Trump is not. What is universalism? 19:12

21d ago19:12

19:12

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Justin Trudeau are universalists. Donald Trump is a (rare) politician who, for the most part, doesn't seem to be a universalist. Universalism is an essential concept to help us understand modern politics. It's a core pillar of liberalism, but many 'conservatives' are universalists also. AI Summary Understanding Univer…

1
How to Make Friendships That Last with Dr. Lori Whatley 22:51

23d ago22:51

22:51

By now, we’ve all heard how important friendships and connections are for our well-being, but sometimes we’re unsure where to find those connections. This week, host Paula Felps sits down with Dr. Lori Whatley, a clinical psychologist and author who specializes in the effects of digital usage on our relationships. Her new book, Happier Together: Ho…

1
#31 Simplifying liberalism. Start with individuals. 17:24

23d ago17:24

17:24

Go ask a professor for a simple definition of liberalism or conservatism. If they are honest, they won't give you a short answer. These terms are super complex. But we need somewhere to start. In this short segment, I offer a place to start talking about liberalism: a theory with 4 pillars. The first pillar we discuss is individualism. We will disc…

1
#30 Geoff Russ -- Hope for Canada vs progressive internationalism 46:27

27d ago46:27

46:27

Geoff stands out as a new kind of writer on the non-left. He offers hope that embraces Canada's past without repudiation -- truly rare these days Thanks for listening! AI Summary Shawn interviews Geoff Russ, a Vancouver-based writer, about the evolving concept of Canadian nationalism and identity. They discuss the need for newcomers to understand t…

1
Maintaining Your Mental Health with Deborah K. Heisz 24:29

30d ago24:29

24:29

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which makes it a great time to remind ourselves of some of the best practices to improve our well-being. Join host Paula Felps as she talks with Live Happy CEO and co-founder Deborah Heisz about some of the new research around happiness, why our mental health is at risk these days, and what we can do about it. …

1
#29 Grant Havers on Leo Strauss, Conservatism, and Modern Political Issues 1:02:08

30d ago1:02:08

1:02:08

This episode goes deep into the philosophy of Leo Strauss and the modern Conservative movement by looking at Professor Haver's book on Strauss and Ango-American democracy. I got too excited with the discussion and stopped paying attention to the recording quality. It's less than I would have hoped, but the content Grant shares is excellent. I offer…

1
#28 Jodi Bruhn: Political Myths, the non-left voter, and COVID fallout 1:06:40

1M ago1:06:40

1:06:40

Professor Bruhn is a unique thinker. She calls herself someone of the 'non-left'. Her advocacy on indigenous issues does not rest on the more common progressive principles. I hope you enjoy the episode! AI summary: In this episode, Shawn dives into Canadian political thought with Dr. Jodi Bruhn. They explore topics such as the conservatism of Pierr…

1
Detaching from Political Whiplash With Dr. Bob Rosen 27:48

1M ago27:48

27:48

We are living in rapidly changing times, and many people feel exhausted by the events that are unfolding. But this week’s guest says that letting go of our attachment to what’s happening could be the best thing for our mental health. Host Paula Felps talks with Dr. Bob Rosen, a bestselling author known for his work on leadership and personal develo…

1
#27 Ted Morton: The Charter Revolution & Conservative Politics 54:57

1M ago54:57

54:57

Ted Morton offers a perspective you cannot find anywhere else in Canada. He's an academic, turned politician, returned academic from Alberta. If you want to understand Canadian politics, you simply have to spend time digging into Alberta. Ted has a great sense of humour and seems to love chatting about the thorniest political issues. He jokes that …

1
#26 Another short introduction. Why would an MD bother with politics? 4:36

1M ago4:36

4:36

Our lives are shaped by the political systems in which we live. When our country starts to struggle, we need to revisit the ideas that animate the programs and structures around us. In just under 5 minutes, I explain why we need to focus on political ideas now, and why philosophical conservatism offers a (paradoxically) new and fresh way to think. …

1
How Music Helps During Hard Times With Scott Crabtree 24:29

1M ago24:29

24:29

Scott Crabtree founded the company Happy Brain Science to help others discover well-being rooted in positive psychology. And, as a semi-professional musician, he knows firsthand how we can use music as a tool for boosting our mood and regulating our emotions. During difficult times, music can be particularly helpful, and in this episode, Scott sits…

1
#25 Ginny Roth on Political Myths, Biggest Election Misses, Trump, and Canada's Future 45:29

1M ago45:29

45:29

Ginny returns to answer common Canadian myths and misconceptions, as well as offering analysis on the upcoming election. We start out with four familiar comments or questions: Is the Conservative Party uncaring, especially about people in need? Will Pierre Poilievre end up spending as much as Mark Carney? The CBC is Canadian. Isn't it a trusted sou…

1
Overcoming the Victim Mindset With Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman 23:56

1M ago23:56

23:56

What if the only thing standing between you and a more fulfilling life was your mindset? This week, host Paula Felps talks with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman — a leading cognitive psychologist, professor at Columbia University, director of the Center for Human Potential, and host of The Psychology Podcast — about how today’s culture has helped foster a v…

1
#24 Jeremy Geddert: Canadian Nationalism & George Grant 1:01:16

1M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Canadian Conservatism, National Identity, & Critique of Post-Colonialism In this episode, Shawn interviews Professor Jeremy Geddert about George Grant, renowned Canadian philosopher and author of 'Lament for a Nation'. They delve into Grant's critique of the Laurentian elite, his perspectives on Canadian nationalism, conservatism, and his critique …

1
#23 Sean Speer: High Stakes Politics & Challenges for Canada's Next Prime Minister 34:57

2M ago34:57

34:57

Sean Speer, Editor at Large at The Hub, paints a stressful (dire?) picture of what faces the next prime minister. The need to secure a stable economic and security agreement with the United States may, paradoxically, compromise the Prime Minister’s political future. They might not be able to secure an agreement that any Canadians will like. What wi…

1
Happy Activist Sam Simon: Offering Hope for Those with Dementia 17:45

2M ago17:45

17:45

When Sam Simon’s wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, he used his theatrical experience to chronicle his journey as a caregiver. And when he was diagnosed with cognitive decline in 2022, he turned that into a theatrical experience as well. Today, his one-man play, Dementia Man: An Existential Journey, recounts his journey and reshapes the narrati…

1
#22 Preston Manning: The Origins and Impact of Canadian Populism 49:22

2M ago49:22

49:22

Preston Manning knows populism like no one else. He says Western Canada might have the most experience with populist movements and governments worldwide. United Farmers’ Associations, Social Credit, CCF, and Reform — they all shared a bottom-up, grassroots energy fuelled by frustration over disdain from elites and inattentive government. Having spe…

1
#21 Dr. Arnie Lange: How to Sort Conservatism in Canada 57:36

2M ago57:36

57:36

Arney Lange has applied his medical and military mind to a structured definition of conservatism that includes 7 different types along two axes. He said there are 3rd and 4th dimensional axes also, but he didn’t want to overwhelm me with details. He has found a way to package complex ideas in a format that most high-school students could manage. Or…

1
#20 Roy Eappen: Transgenderism, Mark Carney, Liberals, and the Election 41:48

2M ago41:48

41:48

Roy has spent decades inside the belly of the Big Blue beast. He knows retail Canadian conservatism as well as anyone. Not only does he attend almost every conservative political conference, event, and lecture (including CPAC in the US), he also has photos of himself standing with more world leaders than most individual world leaders can boast! Inc…

1
#19 Daniel Dufort, Pres. MEI: Tackling Tariffs, Housing, and Trade Barriers 38:34

2M ago38:34

38:34

I tried my best to disagree with Daniel. Doesn’t Quebec block pipelines to protect its cultural identity? How can Canadians pout about tariffs when we have major intra-provincial trade barriers? Why talk about making it easier to build homes without talking about a construction sector that seems built to protect itself and resist efficiency? In eac…

1
Create Your Own Personal Holiday with Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming 27:22

2M ago27:22

27:22

We all have birthdays, but maybe we’re not getting as much out of them as we could! This week, host Paula Felps is joined by Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming, a birthday aficionado and author of the book and workbook, How to Have a Happy Birthday: Create Meaning, Fulfillment and Joy on Your Special Day. Tamar offers a new spin on how we approach birthdays and…

1
#18 Bob Plamondon Unveils John Diefenbaker in a New Light 56:13

2M ago56:13

56:13

Was John Diefenbaker a buffoon or a great Canadian? He served as Canada’s 13th prime minister and spent 39 years in federal parliament, passing away at 83 while still in office. Bob Plamondon, author and historian, takes a second look at Diefenbaker’s legacy. No question, Diefenbaker was a complex, conflicted, and often tragic man. Many have found …

1
#17 Candice Malcolm: Trudeau’s Legacy, Election Dynamics, & Rise of New Media 1:08:18

2M ago1:08:18

1:08:18

This episode may not be what you want to hear. The Liberals will win in a landslide, and the NDP will lose everything to the Liberals, if current polling holds. The Liberals have convinced voters that this election is a referendum on President Trump, not Liberal leadership. The last ten years have been hard on Canadians. The Liberals are smart to m…

1
Mastering Your Mindset in Challenging Times with Michael Pilarczyk 27:48

2M ago27:48

27:48

In tumultuous times, mindset matters more than ever. So this week, host Paula Felps sits down with Michael Pilarczyk, bestselling author of the book Master Your Mindset: Live a Meaningful Life and founder of the Meditation Moments app. Michael shares how we can create a happier life — even in the most challenging times — by changing our mindset. In…

1
#16 JJ McCullough: Navigating Conservative Values in a Changing Political Landscape 1:16:02

2M ago1:16:02

1:16:02

Book covers capture attention, not content. Everyone knows this, but we still judge books by their covers and YouTubers by their online presence. JJ McCullough is a young, hip, lighthearted YouTuber. His ‘cover’ grabs attention and forces you to look twice. Once hooked, JJ fascinates with clips, shots, and quips designed to keep you glued. All dazz…

1
#15 Mark Milke: Navigating Victimhood and Utopianism 49:54

2M ago49:54

49:54

Mark gets things done. He’s written over 1000 columns, participated in nearly 100 research studies, and has published 6 books. He captures the zeitgeist of the centre-right over the last few decades. Definitely someone to follow! Books mentioned: The Victim Cult, 1867 Project Dr. Milke’s think tank: The Aristotle Foundation for Public Policy In thi…

1
The Power of Social Connections With Dr. Felix Cheung 25:59

2M ago25:59

25:59

The release of the World Happiness Report each year offers insight into our global well-being. This week, host Paula Felps is joined by Dr. Felix Cheung, assistant professor in the Department of Psychology and a faculty fellow at the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society. He’s also the Canada Research Chair in Population Well-being …

1
#14 Brianna Morris - The Charter, COVID, and Parliament vs Judiciary 48:08

3M ago48:08

48:08

In this episode, political expert Brianna Morris discusses the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the impact of COVID-19 on political decisions, and the evolving meaning of conservatism in Canadian politics. She explores the balance between judicial and parliamentary supremacy, the role of government, and the need for a positive vision in conservative…

1
The Healing Power of Petting Your Dog With Paula Felps 26:28

3M ago26:28

26:28

March 23 is National Puppy Day, which makes it a great time to talk about how and why we celebrate puppies. But before talking about how and why we celebrate that event, host Brittany Derrenbacher sits down with Paula Felps to dive into some new research on petting your dogs that just might change the way you leave the house. Then, Brittany explain…

1
#13 Bruce Pardy - Exploring Political Labels and Libertarian Philosophy 1:20:04

3M ago1:20:04

1:20:04

In this episode, host Shawn welcomes Bruce Pardy, a Professor of Law at Queen's University, as they delve into various political labels and philosophies within Canadian politics. They discuss the misalignment of political party names with their actual values and the definition of conservatism in Canada. Bruce critiques the underlying collectivism i…

1
Become a Connected Couple With Dr. Gloria Lee 32:40

3M ago32:40

32:40

Some of our most vital connections are those we make with our romantic partners, but they can also be our most challenging. This week, host Paula Felps is joined by Greg Kettner, relationship expert Dr Gloria Lee, a professor of counselling psychology and clinical director at Brentwood Counselling Centre in Vancouver, Canada, and author of the best…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Shawn Whatley Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide