Our four-part series featuring politicians from the municipal, provincial and federal levels proved to be quite popular. Gaining their insights into environmental and sustainability issues was quite valuable and for that reason, today's guest is especially welcome.

In today's episode, Andy chats with Ray Petro, candidate for Brantford city council in Ward 4. Ray is a long time resident of Brantford. Together with his wife Karen they are raising four children and three family dogs. He also lives with his mother Gigi. His parents immigrated to Canada in 1970 for a better life for their family. Ray eventually moved to Brantford in 1999 as part of the opening management team at the Casino where he worked for many years as a Pit Manager.

Ray now operates a thriving real estate business and is a small business owner specializing in skilled trades and services. He is also an active volunteer for many years and can be found dedicating his time within the community.

In this show, they discuss the elements that make up Ray Petro the man, as well as Ray Petro the politician. They explore Ray's vision for the next four years as a member of city council.

As a relative newcomer to municipal politics, Ray also offers some thoughtful and inspiring advice for those considering entering public service themselves.

Join Andy and Ray for this fascinating discussion.

Enjoy!

What You’ll Learn in this Show:

• What inspires Ray and how he manages family, business, volunteer work and public service.
• Why he doesn't really see himself as a 'politician,' and why that matters when serving the community.
• Ray's thoughts on the importance of making choices at home that support the environment, from recycling to supporting initiatives such as community gardens.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Ray's website

The countdown is on to the municipal elections in October here in Ontario. Politics and policy remains an important part of creating a sustainably circular economy. That's why we've dedicated four episodes to featuring local municipal politicians, provincial candidates, leaders of political parties, and non-governmental organizations - people who are in the know and who influence policy and politics.

In today's episode, Andy chats with Mike Schreiner, leader of the Green Party of Ontario. Mike is an outspoken advocate for climate action, as well as affordable housing and mental health. He also believes in putting people before politics, and that's why we're happy to have him on the show.

In this show, Andy and Mike discuss what it feels like to be considered one of the most liked politicians in all of modern politics, with some even speaking of him in terms used to describe Ed Broadbent and Tommy Douglas.

They look at the climate crisis, why so many Conservative parties don’t seem to understand the urgency of addressing it, and why they adhere so strongly to an anti-science, pro-fossil fuel perspective.

Mike also offers some sage advice for councillors who want to do more in order to help the environment at the provincial level, such as making better land use planning decisions, increasing housing supply and addressing housing affordability.  

Join Andy and Mike for this fascinating and eye-opening discussion.

Enjoy!

What You’ll Learn in this Show:

• How Mike feels as one of the most liked politicians in all of modern politics.
• Why the Conservatives seem to misunderstand the urgency of addressing the climate change crisis.
• What councilors can do at the provincial level to better help the environment.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Green Party website

Mike's website

Mike's Email

The countdown is on to the municipal elections in October here in Ontario. Politics and policy remains an important part of creating a sustainably circular economy. That's why we've dedicated four episodes to featuring local municipal politicians, provincial candidates, leaders of political parties, and non-governmental organizations - people who are in the know and who influence policy and politics.

In today's episode, Andy is honoured to be joined by the Mayor of the city of Brantford, Ontario, Kevin Davis. A successful lawyer by trade for more than 35 years, Mayor Davis was elected the 50th Mayor of the City of Brantford on October 22, 2018. He's a passionate community activist committed to improving the quality of life for the residents of Brantford.

In this show, Andy and Mayor Davis discuss change and the importance of following through on changes that will make things better for people, no matter how much some may resist the change itself.

They look at some of the lessons that have been learned as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and where we go from here.

Mayor Davis also offers some thoughts on new initiatives and ideas for moving Brantford forward and addressing the climate crisis, as well as the inevitable challenges those will bring.

Join Andy and Mayor Davis for this fascinating and eye-opening discussion.

Enjoy!

What You’ll Learn in this Show:

• The importance of following through on initiatives that will improve people's lives, addressing the challenges and overcoming the doubters.
• Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, and where we go from here.
• New initiatives designed to help Brantford address the climate crisis, and eventually reach the ultimate goal: zero carbon.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Mayor Davis' website

Mayor Davis' email