The Planta: On the Line interview program

Interviews

Jowi Taylor - Tuesday, 30 June 2009

For Canada Day, Joseph Planta's conversation with the broadcaster and writer Jowi Taylor on the remarkable Six String Nation guitar he put together with 64 pieces of physical Canadian history, all recounted in a new book Six String Nation: 64 Pieces, 6 Strings, 1 Canada, 1 Guitar (Douglas & McIntyre, 2009).

Mr Justice Harvey Brownstone - Tuesday, 16 June 2009

North Toronto Family Court judge Mr. Justice Harvey Brownstone discusses his new book, Tug of War: A Judge's Verdict on Separation, Custody Battles, and the Bitter Realities of Family Court (ECW Press, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Jim Lynch - Tuesday, 16 June 2009

The novelist and journalist Jim Lynch discusses his new novel, Border Songs (Knopf, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Graeme McRanor - Tuesday, 16 June 2009

Graeme McRanor, freelance writer and producer discusses his career as a journalist, modelling, comedy, and his future projects, with Joseph Planta.

Jeff Rubin - Wednesday, 10 June 2009

Former CIBC World Markets chief economist and chief strategist, Jeff Rubin discusses his new book, Why Your World is About To Get a Whole Lot Smaller: Oil and the End of Globalization (Random House, 2009).

Christopher Buckley - Tuesday, 09 June 2009

The noted satrist and author Christopher Buckley discusses the memoir he's written about his parents, William F. Buckley Jr. and the Vancouver-born Patricia Taylor Buckley, Losing Mum and Pup (McClelland & Stewart, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Ricardo Larrivée - Wednesday, 03 June 2009

The popular and ubiquitous Radio-Canada and Food Network television personality, Ricardo Larrivée discusses his new bestselling cookbook, Ricardo: Meals for Every Occasion (Whitecap, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Mark Lawrence Santiago - Wednesday, 03 June 2009

Trudeau Foundation scholar and PhD student at UBC's Department of Geography, Mark Lawrence Santiago discusses his research work on the sustainable and ethical recruitment of Filipino health workers for Canada, with Joseph Planta.

Terry Gould - Wednesday, 27 May 2009

Veteran investigative journalist Terry Gould discusses his new book Murder Without Borders: Dying for the Story in the World's Most Dangerous Places (Random House, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Michael Kwan - Wednesday, 27 May 2009

Freelance writer and blogger (Beyond the Rhetoric) Michael Kwan joins Joseph Planta to discuss the recession, cellphones, computers, Facebook, Twitter, Susan Boyle, and more.

John Ibbitson - Tuesday, 26 May 2009

John Ibbitson, the Washington columnist and correspondent for The Globe and Mail, discusses his new book, Open and Shut: Why America Has Barack Obama, and Canada Has Stephen Harper (McClelland & Stewart, 2009), with Joseph Planta, as well as Ed Greenspon's departure as editor, and Barack Obama's new Supreme Court nominee, Sonia Sotomayor.

Bruce Lourie - Monday, 25 May 2009

Bruce Lourie, co-author (with Dr. Rick Smith) of Slow Death By Rubber Duck: How the Toxic Chemistry of Everyday Life Affects Our Health, discusses the book with Joseph Planta.

Jane Ganahl - Monday, 25 May 2009

Jane Ganahl, journalist and author, discusses the collection of essays she's edited, Single Woman of a Certain Age: Romantic Escapades, Shifting Shapes, and Serene Independence (New World Library, 2009).

Rick Tae - Monday, 25 May 2009

Director, producer, writer, and actor Rick Tae, Leo Award winner for Godiva's, talks to Joseph Planta about the new Vancouver Asian Canadian Theatre production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, which runs at the Waterfront Theatre until June 14th.

BBQ Naz Cavallaro - Thursday, 21 May 2009

Weber spokesman, BBQ Naz, Naz Cavallaro talks about his forthcoming appearance at EAT! Vancouver this weekend, with Joseph Planta; also discussed are various barbecue tips, like how to bake a cake on a grill.

Michael Klassen - Wednesday, 20 May 2009

Michael Klassen, the co-editor of CityCaucus.com, talks to Joseph Planta about the popular group blog on national urban affairs, and the provincial election campaign that's just past, and the dismal lack of engagement.

Dr. Natasha Turner - Wednesday, 20 May 2009

Naturopath Dr. Natasha Turner talks to Joseph Planta about her new book, The Hormone Diet: Lose Fat. Gain Strength. Live Younger Longer (Random House, 2009).

James Harkin - Tuesday, 19 May 2009

'Futurologist,' writer, and social forecaster James Harkin, Director of Talks at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London, discusses his book, Lost in Cyburbia: How Life on the Net Has Created a Life of Its Own (Knopf, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

John Mann - Tuesday, 19 May 2009

Opening tomorrow night at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage is the Arts Club's production of Les Misérables, and one of its stars, Spirit of the West's John Mann discusses the show and his role in it, with Joseph Planta

Seamus O'Regan - Wednesday, 06 May 2009

CTV's Seamus O'Regan, co-host of Canada AM, discusses his career and his new interview program on Bravo! The O'Regan Files, with Joseph Planta. The program debuts tonight with an interview with Diana Krall.

Bill Tieleman - Friday, 08 May 2009

NO BC-STV Campaign spokesman, political commentator, and 24 Hours columnist Bill Tieleman talks to Joseph Planta about the referendum and election campaign.

David Berner - Friday, 08 May 2009

Broadcaster, author, therapist, and addictions expert David Berner, community liaison at Langara College, talks to Joseph Planta about the current provincial election and referendum campaign, his health, and the end of his blog.

John Twigg - Friday, 08 May 2009

Independent journalist, former BC Refederation leader, and long-time political observer, John Twigg, a former press secretary to Dave Barrett, talks to Joseph Planta about the current provincial election and referendum campaign.

Gary Mason - Thursday, 07 May 2009

Globe and Mail columnist Gary Mason discusses the current provincial election and referendum campaign, and his work in the paper.

Bruce Hallsor - Thursday, 07 May 2009

Bruce Hallsor from the British Columbians for BC-STV organisation talks to Joseph Planta about the referendum campaign, why BCers should vote for STV on Tuesday, May 12th, and more.

Wayson Choy - Thursday, 07 May 2009

Celebrated author Wayson Choy discusses his new book, the critically acclaimed and bestselling, Not Yet: A Memoir of Living and Almost Dying (Doubleday, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Shoni Field - Wednesday, 06 May 2009

Shoni Field from the British Columbians for BC-STV organisation discusses STV, why she's for it, and what it was like being on the Citizen's Assembly, with Joseph Planta.

Syrus Lee - Monday, 04 May 2009

Vancouver Kensington BC Liberal candidate Syrus Lee discusses the provincial election and referendum camapign with Joseph Planta.

Linda Scott - Monday, 04 May 2009

Linda Scott, co-author (with Barbara Dunn) of Our Turn to Parent: Shared Experiences and Practical Advice on Caring for Aging Parents in Canada (Random House, 2009) discusses caregiving with Joseph Planta.

Christopher Bennett - Sunday, 03 May 2009

BC Liberal supporter and former BC Green Party leader Christopher Bennett talks to Joseph Planta about the current provincial election and referendum campaign, as well as tonight's leaders debate, Michael Ignatieff's speech to the federal Liberal convention yesterday, and engaging young voters.

Mable Elmore - Friday, 01 May 2009

Vancouver Kensington BC NDP candidate Mable Elmore discusses the current provincial election campaign with Joseph Planta.

Doug Warkentin - Thursday, 30 April 2009

Vancouver Kensington Green Party of BC candidate Doug Warkentin discusses the provincial election and referendum camapign with Joseph Planta.

David Schreck - Thursday, 30 April 2009

Political pundit and former MLA David Schreck of StrategicThoughts.com joins Joseph Planta to discuss the current provincial election and referendum camapign; he is a spokesman for the NO BC-STV campaign.

Gary Bannerman - Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Veteran journalist, broadcaster and corporate communications consultant Gary Bannerman joins Joseph Planta to discuss the current provincial election and referendum campaign; issues discussed include the Van Dongen resignation, Patrick Kinsella and government lobbying, Carole James and the NDP campaign, and STV.

Judi Tyabji - Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Former MLA Judi Tyabji, CEO of Tugboat Enterprises, returns to the program to talk to Joseph Planta about the current provincial election and referendum campaign; discussed include: the sense of disengagement amongst the electorate, the Liberals candidates problems, the NDP's campaign, and STV, which she is not supporting.

Mike Geoghegan - Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Government and media relations consultant, and pundit Michael Geoghegan discusses the current provincial election and referendum campaign; topics covered include the Van Dongen affair, the high standard we seem to have for candidates, government lobbying, STV, and the high level of disinterest amongst voters.

Mark Forsythe - Monday, 27 April 2009

CBC Radio One's Mark Forsythe joins Joseph Planta to discuss the current provincial election and referendum campaigns, as well as the future of his program BC Almanac, and his 25th anniversary with the CBC.

Jamie Lee Hamilton - Monday, 27 April 2009

Political blogger (Oldtown News) Jamie Lee Hamilton returns to the program after a four-year absence to discuss the current provincial election and referendum campaign, her support of Green candidate John Boychuk in Vancouver-Mount Pleasant, STV, and more.

Vaughn Palmer - Monday, 27 April 2009

Veteran Vancouver Sun columnist Vaughn Palmer joins Joseph Planta to discuss the current election and referendum campaign; the John Van Dongen story, the forthcoming television leaders debate, whether STV will pass, and the NDP's lacklustre campaign thus far are discussed.

Dr. Mark Jaccard - Sunday, 26 April 2009

Dr. Mark Jaccard, a professor at Simon Fraser University's School of Resource and Environmental Management and a former member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, discusses the essay he contributed to the Thomas Homer-Dixon edited book Carbon Shift: How the Twin Crises of Oil Depletion and Climate Change Will Define the Future (Random House, 2009), as well as the current provincial election campaign especially the NDP's plan to axe the carbon tax, with Joseph Planta.

Irwin Loy - Sunday, 26 April 2009

The 24 Hours paper's Irwin Loy talks about the current provincial election and referendum campaigns, looking at the John Van Dongen situation, the NDP campaign stumbles, Ray Lam dropping out of the race, the carbon tax, and what to expect in some Vancouver ridings, with Joseph Planta.

Paul Willcocks - Friday, 24 April 2009

Paul Willcocks, columnist and editorial writer at the Victoria Times-Colonist discusses the latest in the provincial election and referendum campaigns.

Rafe Mair - Thursday, 23 April 2009

Veteran broadcaster, Save Our Rivers spokesman, and former Socred cabinet Rafe Mair discusses environment issues, and the current provincial election campaign and the STV referendum, with Joseph Planta.

Sean Holman - Thursday, 23 April 2009

Award-winning investigative journalist Sean Holman, editor of Public Eye Online, discusses the current provincial election and referendum campaigns with Joseph Planta.

Dr. James Maskalyk - Wednesday, 15 April 2009

Dr. James Maskalyk, an emergency physician and assistant professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, discusses his memoir, Six Months in Sudan: A Young Doctor in a War-Torn Village (Doubleday, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Elizabeth Ball - Wednesday, 15 April 2009

BC Entertainment Hall of Fame president and former Vancouver City Councilor Elizabeth Ball talks to Joseph Planta about the latest group of honourees, and the induction ceremony this Sunday, 19 April 2009 at the Orpheum.

Dr. George Friedman - Thursday, 09 April 2009

Dr. George Friedman, the founder and CEO of STRATFOR, the world's leading private intelligence and forecasting company discusses his new book, The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century (Doubleday, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Ray Moynihan - Thursday, 09 April 2009

The noted health and medical journalist Ray Moynihan discusses the book he co-authored (with Melissa Sweet), Ten Questions You Must Ask Your Doctor (Greystone, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

David Chudnovsky - Wednesday, 08 April 2009

The outgoing NDP MLA for Vancouver Kensington David Chudnovsky talks to Joseph Planta about the past four years in provincial politics, the state of COPE, and what to expect in the forthcoming election.

Ezra Levant - Tuesday, 07 April 2009

The journalist, commentator, and political activist Ezra Levant discusses his book, Shakedown: How Our Government is Undermining Democracy in the Name of Human Rights (McClelland & Stewart, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Robyn Harding - Tuesday, 07 April 2009

The author Robyn Harding talks to Joseph Planta about her book, Mom, Will This Chicken Give Me Man Boobs? My Confused, Guilt-Ridden, and Stressful Struggle to Raise a Green Family (Greystone, 2009).

David Grann - Monday, 06 April 2009

The New Yorker's David Grann discusses his bestselling book, The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon (Doubleday, 2009), a captivating book about Colonel Percy Fawcett and his disappearance in the jungles of Brazil.

Dr. Dave Hepburn - Monday, 06 April 2009

The popular syndicated columnist and radio host Dr. Dave Hepburn talks about his new hilarious and very useful book, The Doctor Is In(Sane): Indispensible Advice from Dr. Dave (Greystone, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Rudyard Griffiths - Thursday, 02 April 2009

The Dominion Institute's co-founder and National Post columnist, Rudyard Griffiths discusses his new book, Who We Are: A Citizen's Manifesto (Douglas & McIntyre, 2009) with Joseph Planta.

Andrea Gunraj - Thursday, 02 April 2009

One of Random House's 2009 New Faces of Fiction, Andrea Gunraj, a community outreach worker for The Metropolitan Action Committee on Violence Against Women and Children, talks to Joseph Planta about her debut book, The Sudden Disappearance of Seetha (Knopf, 2009).

Mike Morrison, Mike's Bloggity Blog - Monday, 30 March 2009

Mike's Bloggity Blog blogger Mike Morrison talks to Joseph Planta about last night's Juno Awards here in Vancouver.

Jesse Peters, Paramedic - Monday, 30 March 2009

Jesse Peters, Paramedic's lead vocalist, formerly of the Peters Drury Trio, talks to Joseph Planta about their latest CD, Love, Doubt, and Soul.

Meg Federico - Monday, 23 March 2009

The author and journalist Meg Federico discusses her memoir on mothering her mother, Welcome to the Departure Lounge (Doubleday, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Hannah Holborn - Monday, 23 March 2009

The author Hannah Holborn discusses her debut short story collection, Fierce (Emblem, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Alanna Mitchell - Monday, 16 March 2009

The author and journalist Alanna Mitchell talks to Joseph Planta about her new book, Sea Sick: The Global Ocean in Crisis (McClelland & Stewart, 2009).

Alan Bradley - Monday, 16 March 2009

The author Alan Bradley discusses his first novel, The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie (Doubleday, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Ken Lavigne - Sunday, 15 March 2009

The tenor Ken Lavigne talks to Joseph Planta about renting out Carnegie Hall for the night, fulfilling a life long dream to sing there, his career as a singer, and his forthcoming concert at the Orpheum in Vancouver, Saturday, 21st March 2009.

John Zaritsky - Wednesday, 11 March 2009

The Academy Award winning documentary filmmaker John Zaritsky discusses his film The Wild Horse Redemption, which has its premiere on CBC Television, Thursday, 11 March 2009, as well as his career and winning an Oscar, with Joseph Planta.

Bill Vander Zalm - Tuesday, 10 March 2009

The former premier of British Columbia Bill Vander Zalm discusses his new memoir, For The People, his career, and more, with Joseph Planta.

Holly Doan - Saturday, 07 March 2009

CPAC's Holly Doan talks to Joseph Planta about her current documentary series, The Premiers, airing Sunday evenings on the Cable Public Affairs Channel, profiling Canadian premiers in history like Joey Smallwood, W.A.C. Bennett, Tommy Douglas, Maurice Duplessis, and Leslie Frost, amongst others.

Robert Moss - Saturday, 07 March 2009

The author, historian, journalist and novelist Robert Moss discusses his new book, The Secret History of Dreaming (New World Library, 2009) with Joseph Planta.

Lianne George - Wednesday, 25 February 2009

Maclean's senior editor Lianne George discusses the book that she's co-authored, The Ego Boom: Why the World Really Does Revolve Around You (Key Porter, 2009), with Joseph Planta.

Lyman MacInnis - Wednesday, 25 February 2009

Veteran business consultant and commentator Lyman MacInnis discusses his new book, How To Succeed In Anything By Really Trying (Random House, 2009) with Joseph Planta, a collection of useful and wise commonsense.

Janine Fuller - Wednesday, 25 February 2009

Janine Fuller, manager of the Little Sister's Book and Art Emporium, discusses Freedom to Read Week in Canada, with Joseph Planta.

Jaime J. Weinman - Monday, 23 February 2009

Maclean's magazine critic and blogger Jaime J. Weinman talks to Joseph Planta about the 81st Annual Academy Awards, the telecast, the winners and losers, its host Hugh Jackman, and more.

Chris Cleave - Monday, 23 February 2009

The author and journalist, a columnist for the Guardian newspaper, Chris Cleave discusses his new novel, Little Bee (Bond Street, 2009), that speaks to the asylum seeker and refugee experience in Britain and worldwide. It has been nominated for the Costa Novel Award, and was recently shortlisted for the Commonwealth Writers Prize.

Stephen Hunt - Friday, 20 February 2009

Author and journalist Stephen Hunt, an arts reporter for the Calgary Herald, discusses Sunday's Academy Awards with Joseph Planta, looking at the race for gold, the film's nominated, and tradition of the Oscar show.

Jennifer Cohen - Friday, 20 February 2009

Celebrity health and fitness expert Jennifer Cohen joins Joseph Planta to discuss her new book, No Gym Required: Unleash Your Inner Rock Star (Key Porter, 2009), which shows the reader how to keep fit and healthy without a gym membership or costly exercise equipment.

Steve Maich - Thursday, 19 February 2009

Self-expression and individuality in the consumer world has gotten a bit out of control, and could be the reason why the economy is tanking. Maclean's senior editor and national business columnist Steve Maich discusses the book he co-authored with Lianne George, The Ego Boom: Why the World Really Does Revolve Around You (Key Porter, 2009), which looks at how our culture of narcissism affects nearly every aspect of our lives. Joseph Planta hosts.

Dr. Michael Ungar - Thursday, 19 February 2009

Internationally recognised expert on resilence in youth, Michael Ungar, Ph.D, discusses his new book We Generation: Raising Socially Responsible Kids (McClelland & Stewart, 2009) with Joseph Planta.

Connie Braun - Thursday, 19 February 2009

Author Connie Braun discusses her book, The Steppes Are the Colour of Sepia: A Mennonite Memoir (Ronsdale Press, 2008), with Joseph Planta.

Meryl Gordon - Thursday, 05 February 2009

The very public legal and public relations fight surrounding the guardianship of the socialite and philanthropist Brooke Astor and her wealth is the subject of a recent book Mrs. Astor Regrets: The Hidden Betrayals of a Family Beyond Reproach (Houghton Mifflin, 2008). The book's author, the New York magazine journalist Meryl Gordon discusses her book with Joseph Planta.

Douglas Todd - Thursday, 05 February 2009

Vancouver Sun columnist Douglas Todd discusses the recent collection of essays he's edited, Cascadia: The Elusive Utopia, Exploring the Spirit of the Pacific Northwest (Ronsdale Press, 2008), with Joseph Planta.

Michael Kwan - Thursday, 05 February 2009

Freelance writer and blogger Michael Kwan returns to discuss the Super Bowl episode of The Office, smartphones, and the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, with Joseph Planta.

Ralph Benmergui - Friday, 16 January 2009

Veteran broadcaster Ralph Benmergui debuts a new documentary series God Bless America on VisionTV beginning Monday, 19 January 2009, running for six weeks; he discusses it and the state of religion in American politics and culture with Joseph Planta.

Bryce Wylde - Friday, 16 January 2009

The noted alternative health expert Bryce Wylde talks about his new book The Antioxidant Prescription: How to Use the Power of Antioxidants to Prevent Disease and Stay Healthy for Life (Random House, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Mike McCardell - Sunday, 21 December 2008

Global BC's popular reporter Mike McCardell shares some stories with Joseph Planta from his fourth bestselling book, Getting to the Bubble: Finding Magic Amid the Urban Roar (Harbour Publishing, 2008).

Andrew Carmellini and Gwen Hyman - Friday, 19 December 2008

New York City chef Andrew Carmellini and his wife, writer Gwen Hyman talk to Joseph Planta about their book Urban Italian: Simple Recipes and True Stories From a Life in Food (Bloomsbury, 2008).

Eric Jamieson - Friday, 19 December 2008

Author and historian Eric Jamieson discusses his new book, Tragedy at Second Narrows: The Story of the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge (Harbour Publishing, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Jay Ingram - Wednesday, 17 December 2008

The host of Discovery Channel Canada's Daily Planet, Jay Ingram discusses his new book, The Daily Planet Book of Cool Ideas: Global Warming and What People Are Doing About It (Penguin, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Hugo Bonjean - Wednesday, 17 December 2008

Bestselling author Hugo Bonjean discusses his new novel, Seeds . . . of Germination . . . or Termination (Eagle Vision, 2008), with Joseph Planta, a timely book about terminator seeds and living sustainably set just under a century from today.

Rafe Mair - Monday, 15 December 2008

Rafe Mair, the legendary broadcaster and author, discusses his work with Save Our Rivers, why he's voting for the NDP in May 2009, and offers his thoughts on current affairs: the business in Ottawa and electoral reform in BC.

Gwynne Dyer - Wednesday, 10 December 2008

The journalist and author Gwynne Dyer discusses his new book on the possible outcomes of climate change, Climate Wars (Random House, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Mary Lou Finlay - Wednesday, 10 December 2008

The radio and television broadcaster Mary Lou Finlay joins Joseph Planta to discuss her new book, The As It Happens Files: Radio That May Contain Nuts (Random House, 2008), and the 40th anniversary of the CBC radio program she once co-hosted, As It Happens.

Patrick Lane - Wednesday, 10 December 2008

The acclaimed poet and author Patrick Lane discusses his new novel, Red Dog, Red Dog (McClelland & Stewart, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

David Hackett Fischer - Tuesday, 09 December 2008

The distingushed Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David Hackett Fischer discusses his latest book, Champlain's Dream: The Visionary Adventurer Who Made a New World in Canada (Knopf, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Leslie Anthony - Tuesday, 09 December 2008

The author and journalist Leslie Anthony talks about his new book, Snakebit: Confessions of a Herpetologist (Greystone, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Kenneth Whyte - Tuesday, 25 November 2008

Maclean's publisher and editor-in-chief Kenneth Whyte discusses his new book, The Uncrowned King: The Sensational Rise of William Randolph Hearst (Random House, 2008), with Joseph Planta.

M.G. Vassanji - Monday, 24 November 2008

Two-time Giller Prize winning author M.G. Vassanji discusses his new memoir, his first non-fiction book, A Place Within: Rediscovering India (Doubleday, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Ian King - Monday, 24 November 2008

24 Hours columnist Ian King talks to Joseph Planta about the Gregor Robertson and Vision Vancouver victory in Vancouver in last week's municipal election, where the NPA goes from here, and what he told the new mayor-elect on election night.

Amitav Ghosh - Tuesday, 18 November 2008

The author and novelist Amitav Ghosh discusses his latest novel, Sea of Poppies (Viking, 2008), his career and writing, with Joseph Planta, a book that's already been shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

Isha - Tuesday, 18 November 2008

Internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher and founder of the Isha Foundation Educating for Peace, Isha talks to Joseph Planta about her new book Why Walk When You Can Fly? Soar Beyond Your Fears and Love Yourself and Others Unconditionally (New World, 2008); and she also describes her Isha System to being more self-aware and at peace.

Debbie Travis - Wednesday, 12 November 2008

Home decorating television personality Debbie Travis talks to Joseph Planta about her new memoir on parenting Not Guilty: My Guide to Working Hard, Raising Kids and Laughing Through the Chaos (Random House, 2008).

David Bergen - Wednesday, 12 November 2008

Giller Prize-winning author David Bergen talks to Joseph Planta about his newest book, The Retreat (McClelland & Stewart, 2008).

Jim Taylor - Wednesday, 12 November 2008

Legendary sports columnist and author Jim Taylor joins Joseph Planta again, this time to discuss his new memoir, "Hello, Sweetheart? Gimmie Rewrite!" My Life in the Wonderful World of Sports (Harbour, 2008), a look back at his storied career in sports and journalism.

Mark Zuehlke - Tuesday, 11 November 2008

The author and military historian Mark Zuehlke discusses his new book, Brave Battalion: The Remarkable Saga of the 16th Battalion (Canadian Scottish) in the First World War (Wiley, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Kenneth J. Harvey - Monday, 10 November 2008

The bestselling and acclaimed author Kenneth J. Harvey joins Joseph Planta to discuss his newest novel, Blackstrap Hawco: Said to Be About a Newfoundland Family (Random House, 2008), as well as his career and writing.

Amanda Boyden - Monday, 10 November 2008

The author Amanda Boyden discusses her new novel, Babylon Rolling (Knopf, 2008), a novel set in pre-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans, with Joseph Planta.

Nam Le - Monday, 10 November 2008

Nam Le discusses his debut book, a new collection of short stories, The Boat (Bond Street, 2008), already a critical hit, with Joseph Planta.

Irwin Loy - Sunday, 02 November 2008

24 Hours reporter Irwin Loy discusses politics in Vancouver with Joseph Planta.

Deepa Mehta - Friday, 31 October 2008

The acclaimed filmmaker Deepa Mehta discusses her new film, Heaven on Earth with Joseph Planta.

Nino Ricci - Monday, 27 October 2008

Nino Ricci, one of Canada's premier and bestselling novelists, discusses his new book, The Origin of Species (Doubleday, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Nadeem Aslam - Monday, 27 October 2008

Internationally acclaimed author Nadeem Aslam talks abouth his newest book, The Wasted Vigil (Bond Street, 2008) with Joseph Planta, a novel about post-September 11th Afghanistan.

Jeffrey Alford - Monday, 27 October 2008

Food writer Jeffrey Alford discusses his recent book, Beyond the Great Wall: Recipes and Travels in the Other China (Random House, 2008), with Joseph Planta. Alford co-wrote the book with his wife Naomi Duguid.

Kirk LaPointe - Sunday, 26 October 2008

The Vancouver Sun's managing editor and adjunct professor at UBC's Graduate School of Journalism, Kirk LaPointe joins Joseph Planta to discuss the Sun's format changes, the state of newspapers and news, as well as the 10th anniversary of the National Post, where he was its founding executive editor.

Marty Beckerman - Tuesday, 21 October 2008

Author and journalist Marty Beckerman discusses his new book Dumbocracy: Adventures with the Loony Left and the Rabid Right (Disinformation, 2008) and the current state of American politics, the election there and more with Joseph Planta.

A.B. McKillop - Monday, 20 October 2008

The historian and author A.B. McKillop talks about his new book, Pierre Berton: A Biography (McClelland & Stewart, 2008), with Joseph Planta.

James Glave - Monday, 20 October 2008

Journalist and author James Glave discusses his book, Almost Green: How I Built an Eco-Shed, Ditched My SUV, Alienated the In-Laws, and Changed My Life Forever (Greystone, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Dr. Woodson Merrell - Monday, 20 October 2008

Joseph Planta talks to Dr. Woodson Merrell, the author of The Source: Beat Fatigue, Power Up Your Health and Feel 10 Years Younger (Random House, 2008).

John Ralston Saul - Wednesday, 15 October 2008

The author and thinker John Ralston Saul discusses his new book, A Fair Country: Telling Truths About Canada (Viking, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Eric Margolis - Tuesday, 14 October 2008

Veteran foriegn correspondent and syndicated columnist Eric Margolis discusses his new book, American Raj: Liberation or Domination? (Key Porter, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Tim Sanders - Tuesday, 14 October 2008

Bestselling author and former Chief Solutions Officer at Yahoo! Tim Sanders talks about his new book Saving the World At Work: What Companies and Individuals Can Do to Go Beyond Making A Profit to Making A Difference (Doubleday, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Bob Kull - Tuesday, 14 October 2008

Robert Kull spent one year alone in the southern most part of South America, which he recounts in Solitude: Seeking Wisdom in Extremes-A Year Alone in the Patagonia Wilderness (New World Library, 2008), and discussed with Joseph Planta.

Paul Willcocks - Sunday, 12 October 2008

Victoria Times-Colonist columnist Paul Willcocks joins Joseph Planta with political talk previewing Tuesday's federal election, as well as the state of provincial politics in British Columbia.

Ian King - Sunday, 12 October 2008

24 Hours columnist Ian King talks politics with Joseph Planta previewing Tuesday's federal election and the forthcoming municipal election in Vancouver.

George Froehlich - Sunday, 12 October 2008

Veteran television and print journalist George Froehlich talks to Joseph Planta about the new internet/e-mail newsletter he's the editor of, the Savvy Insider.

Antonia Zerbisias - Thursday, 09 October 2008

Toronto Star columnist Antonia Zerbisias discusses the journalism and media reporting, her work in the Star, women's issues and politics, the current election campaigns in Canada and the United States, and more with Joseph Planta.

Warren Kinsella - Tuesday, 07 October 2008

Warren Kinsella, author, blogger, and former Liberal strategist discusses the current federal election campaign, Paul Martin's memoir, and more with Joseph Planta.

Nik Nanos - Monday, 06 October 2008

Pollster Nik Nanos of Nanos Research talks to Joseph Planta about the current election campaign, his poll numbers, and how his nightly tracking polls are taken.

Martin Stringer - Monday, 06 October 2008

Martin Stringer, one of the best and recognised reporters in Ottawa, talks to Joseph Planta about travelling the country and being on the campaign hustings, profiling key battleground ridings for CPAC (the Cable Public Affairs Channel).

Dr. Joe Schwarcz - Monday, 06 October 2008

Bestselling author and popular media personality Dr. Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill's Office for Science and Society, discusses his new book, Brain Fuel: 199 Mind-Expanding Inquiries into the Science of Everyday Life (Doubleday, 2008) where he provides a better understanding of the science around us, why there aren't as many toxins around us as we're led to believe, how chocolate can be good for us, or how best to cook broccoli.

Ajay Puri - Monday, 06 October 2008

Social activist and political insider Ajay Puri talks to Joseph Planta about the current federal election campaign, as well as the organisation he helped found, Canadians for Obama.

Steve Paikin - Friday, 03 October 2008

TVO's Steve Paikin talks to Joseph Planta about moderating last night's federal leaders debate.

Miriam Toews - Tuesday, 30 September 2008

Governor General's prize winning author for A Complicated Kindness, Miriam Toews discusses her new novel The Flying Troutmans (Knopf, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Nelson Wiseman - Tuesday, 30 September 2008

Nelson Wiseman, an associate professor in the Political Science department at the University of Toronto talks to Joseph Planta about the current federal election campaign, and what to expect at this week's leaders debates.

Rachel Marsden - Monday, 29 September 2008

Conservative political analyst and operative, editor and CEO of grandcentralpolitical.com Rachel Marsden talks to Joseph Planta about the economic crisis, the presidential and upcoming vice presidential debates, as well as the Canadian political campaign.

Andrew Pyper - Monday, 29 September 2008

The author Andrew Pyper (Lost Girls, The Trade Mission, The Wildfire Season) recently discussed his new novel The Killing Circle (Doubleday, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Dale Goldhawk - Sunday, 28 September 2008

Veteran consumer affairs advocate and investigative journalist Dale Goldhawk, host of AM 740's Goldhawk Fights Back, Rogers Television and CPAC's Goldhawk Live talks to Joseph Planta about the current federal election campaign.

Peter Van Dusen - Friday, 26 September 2008

At mid-point in the federal election campaign, the journalist Peter Van Dusen talks to Joseph Planta about the campaign and the coverage his network, CPAC (Cable Public Affairs Channel) is giving Canadians.

Judi Tyabji - Friday, 19 September 2008

The CEO of Tugboat Enterprises, former MLA and broadcaster Judi Tyabji talks to Joseph Planta about the current federal election campaign, and the fight in her own riding, West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast.

Ronald Wright, Thursday, 18 September 2008

The bestselling author, essayist, and historian Ronald Wright discusses his new book, What is America? A Short History of the New World Order (Knopf, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Joan Barfoot, Thursday, 18 September 2008

Giller and Booker nominated Joan Barfoot talks to Joseph Planta about her new novel, Exit Lines (Knopf, 2008)

David Berner, Thursday, 18 September 2008

The broadcaster, blogger, and Langara College's community liaison David Berner talks to Joseph Planta about his thoughts on matters political: the municipal election in Vancouver, the Canadian federal election, and the American presidential race.

Andrew Weaver - Wednesday, 17 September 2008

Dr. Andrew Weaver, a professor at the University of Victoria and lead author on the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (the organisation that received, with Al Gore the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize) talks about his new book, Keeping Our Cool: Canada in a Warming World (Viking, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Rona Maynard - Wednesday, 17 September 2008

Former Chatalaine editor, the author Rona Maynard discusses her recent memoir, My Mother's Daughter (Emblem Editions, 2008) with Joseph Planta, as well offers her thoughts on the American and Canadian elections, Hillary Clinton, Sarah Palin, and more.

Gabrielle Rose - Wednesday, 17 September 2008

The stage, film and television veteran Gabrielle Rose talks to Joseph Planta about her new role in the Arts Club Theatre Company's Canadian premiere of Doubt, a play by John Patrick Shanley, playing at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage until 12th October 2008.

Jean Barman - Monday, 04 August 2008

As British Columbia celebrates its 150th anniversary, the historian Jean Barman talks to Joseph Planta about her new book, British Columbia: Spirit of the People (Harbour, 2008), a coffee table retrospective of the province's history and people.

Stephen Hume - Monday, 04 August 2008

Vancouver Sun columnist Stephen Hume discusses his new book, Simon Fraser: In Search of Modern British Columbia (Harbour, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Stephen Bown - Monday, 04 August 2008

The historian Stephen Bown talks about his new book Madness, Betrayal and the Lash: The Epic Voyage of Captain George Vancouver (Douglas & McIntyre, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Daphne Sleigh - Monday, 04 August 2008

Historian and author Daphne Sleigh joins Joseph Planta to talk about her recent book, The Man Who Saved Vancouver (Heritage House, 2008), a biography of Vancouver's colourful founder and champion of the city archive, Major James Skitt Matthews.

Marc Edge - Wednesday, 30 July 2008

In an interview taped in January 2008, journalist and communications professor Marc Edge discusses his book Asper Nation: Canada's Most Dangerous Media Company (New Star, 2007) with Joseph Planta.

Christopher A. Shaw - Wednesday, 30 July 2008

Christopher A. Shaw talks about his new book Five Ring Circus: Myths and Realities of the Olympic Games (New Society, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Alan Middleton - Monday, 21 July 2008

Marketing guru Alan Middleton, also executive director of the Schulich Executive Education Centre at York University, talks to Joseph Planta about a new book he has written with Jeannette Hanna, Ikonica: A Field Guide to Canada's Brandscape (Douglas & McIntyre, 2008).

Mark Kurlansky - Monday, 07 July 2008

Bestselling author Mark Kurlansky discusses his new book, The Last Fish Tale: The Fate of the Atlantic and Survival in Gloucester, America's Oldest Fishing Port and Most Original Town (Ballantine, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Alan Twigg - Monday, 07 July 2008

Author and BC Bookworld publisher Alan Twigg talks about his memoir Full Time: A Soccer Story (McClelland & Stewart, 2008) with Joseph Planta.

Christopher Shulgan - Monday, 30 June 2008

Journalist and author Christopher Shulgan talks to Joseph Planta about his new book, The Soviet Ambassador: The Making of the Radical Behind Perestroika (McClelland & Stewart, 2008) a fascinating account of the life Aleksandr Yakovlev, a man vital to the end of the Cold War, whose ideals were influenced by Canada and friends he made here.

Jack Christie - Monday, 30 June 2008

'Mr. BC' Jack Christie talks to Joseph Planta about his latest book Best Weekend Getaways from Vancouver (Greystone, 2008).

Dan Gardner - Tuesday, 24 June 2008

Dan Gardner, senior writer and columnist at the Ottawa Citizen talks to Joseph Planta about his recent book, Risk: The Science and Politics of Fear (McClelland & Stewart, 2008).

Rick Antonson - Tuesday, 24 June 2008

To Timbuktu for a Haircut: A Journey Through West Africa (Dundurn, 2008) is funny and fun memoir from Tourism Vancouver's Rick Antonson. He talks to Joseph Planta about his unforgettable trip through Senegal and Mali.

Richard Florida - Monday, 16 June 2008

Bestselling author, academic, and prominent public intellectual Richard Florida talks to Joseph Planta about his latest book, Who's Your City? How the Creative Economy is Making Where to Live the Most Important Decision of Your Life (Random House, 2008).

Gillian Deacon - Monday, 16 June 2008

Broadcaster and author Gillian Deacon talks to Joseph Planta about her recent book, Green for Life: 200 Simple Eco-Ideas for Every Day (Penguin, 2008), a useful book containing ideas on how to live more green.

Steven Galloway - Monday, 16 June 2008

The author Steven Galloway talks to Joseph Planta about his already bestselling and highly acclaimed novel, The Cellist of Sarajevo (Random House, 2008).

Rafe Mair - Wednesday, 04 June 2008

Legendary broadcaster and writer Rafe Mair talks to Joseph Planta about his new collection of essays, What the Bleep Is Going On Here? (Harbour, 2008).

Stephen Hunt - Wednesday, 04 June 2008

Writer and journalist Stephen Hunt writes about being white in a thoughtful and humorous book, The White Guy: A Field Guide (Douglas & McIntyre, 2008), and discusses the book, race, and the arts with Joseph Planta.

Patricia Pearson - Tuesday, 27 May 2008

Author and journalist Patricia Pearson talks to Joseph Planta about her new book A Brief History of Anxiety (Yours and Mine) (Random House Canada, 2008).

Margaret Mitchell - Monday, 26 May 2008

Former NDP MP for Vancouver East (1979-1993) Margaret Mitchell talks to Joseph Planta about her memoir, No Laughing Matter: Adventure, Activism, and Politics (Granville Island, 2008).

Abigail Carter - Monday, 26 May 2008

Author Abigail Carter talks to Joseph Planta about her new first book, The Alchemy of Loss: A Young Widow's Transformation (McClelland & Stewart, 2008), which chronicles her life through grief after her husband was killed at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Daphne Bramham - Friday, 23 May 2008

Vancouver Sun columnist Daphne Bramham talks to Joseph Planta about her new book The Secret Lives of Saints: Child Brides and Lost Boys in Canada's Polygamous Mormon Sect (Random House, 2008).

Grant Fuhr - Friday, 23 May 2008

Hockey Hall of Famer Grant Fuhr talks about hockey and NutriSystem with Joseph Planta.

Mel Hurtig - Monday, 05 May 2008

Legendary Edmonton bookseller, publisher and creator of The Canadian Encyclopedia, political activist and author, Mel Hurtig talks to Joseph Planta about his new book, The Truth About Canada: Some Important, Some Astonishing, and Some Truly Appalling Things all Canadians Should Know About Our Country (McClelland & Stewart, 2008).

Anthony Horowitz - Monday, 28 April 2008

Author Anthony Horowitz talks to Joseph Planta about writing--how he writes and his favourites--and his new novel Snakehead (Philomel, 2007), the seventh in the Alex Rider series, which has already sold millions of copies worldwide.

Tom Zytaruk - Monday, 14 April 2008

Tom Zytaruk, a staff reporter at the Now newspaper in Surrey talks to Joseph Planta about his new book, Like a Rock: The Chuck Cadman Story (Harbour, 2008), and the controversy that's ensued with regards to the insurance policy the Conservative Party offered to the late Surrey North MP who died of cancer in 2005.

Michele Riml - Monday, 14 April 2008

Playwright Michele Riml talks to Joseph Planta about her new play Poster Boys, currently playing at the Arts Club on Granville Island until 26 April 2008, as well as her career as a writer.

Michael Adams - Monday, 31 March 2008

Environics president Michael Adams discusses his latest book, Unlikely Utopia: The Surprising Triumph of Canadian Pluralism (Viking, 2007) with Joseph Planta.

Jane Christmas - Monday, 31 March 2008

Writer and journalist Jane Christmas talks to Joseph Planta about her book What the Psychic Told the Pilgrim: A Midlife Misadventure on Spain's Camino de Santiago de Compostela (Greystone, 2007).

Marie Phillips - Thursday, 20 March 2008

Author Marie Phillips talks to Joseph Planta about her debut novel, Gods Behaving Badly, already a literary sensation in Britain and recently optioned by the Ben Stiller production company, Red Hour Films.

Susan Bourette - Thursday, 20 March 2008

Writer and journalist Susan Bourette, author of Carnivore Chic: From Pasture to Plate, A Search for the Perfect Meat (Viking, 2008) talks to Joseph Planta.

Andrew Merrifield - Tuesday, 12 February 2008

Andrew Merrifield talks to Joseph Planta about his new book The Wisdom of Donkeys: Finding Tranquility in a Chaotic World, a thoughtful and pensive look at life in Southern France's Haute-Auvergne region, life's larger mysteries, and his faithful companion, a donkey, Gribouille.

Ken Rockburn - Thursday, 24 January 2008

Broadcaster Ken Rockburn, the host of Talk Politics on CPAC, talks to Joseph Planta about his new book Rockburn: The CPAC Interviews, a collection of some of his notable interviews with some of the interesting personalities of our time.

James Long - Thursday, 24 January 2008

James Long, co-artistic director of Theatre Replacement, writer, and performer talks to Joseph Planta about a suitcase of photos he found a couple of years ago, which is now the basis of a show, Clark and I Somewhere in Connecticut.

David Paperny - Friday, 18 January 2008

Oscar nominated filmmaker David Paperny talks to Joseph Planta about Confessions of an Innocent Man, a new docudrama he has produced, co-written and directed. Airing Saturday, 19 January 2008 on CTV, it tells the harrowing story of British and Canadian national William Sampson, who was arrested, tortured, and framed for a 2000 bombing in Saudi Arabia.

Mark Holland - Wednesday, 16 January 2008

Liberal MP for Ajax-Pickering, Mark Holland talks to Joseph Planta about the latest goings-on in Ottawa: Ottawa Mayor Larry O'Brien and Environment minister John Baird; the Mulroney-Schreiber affair; the forthcoming budget; Joan Beatty's nomination; and whether the Afghanistan mission should continue.

David Berner - Wednesday, 16 January 2008

Broadcaster, writer, actor, lecturer, addictions expert, Community Liaison at Lanagara College, and blogger David Berner talks to Joseph Planta about his career in broadcasting, the state of Vancouver politics, and more.

Warren Kinsella - Monday, 07 January 2008

Author, blogger, and former Liberal strategist Warren Kinsella talks to Joseph Planta about his recent book The War Room: Political Strategies for Business, NGOs, and Anyone Who Wants to Win (Dundurn Group, 2007), a highly readable book on how to win and survive in politics and business.

Sophie Milman - Monday, 26 November 2007

Canadian international music star Sophie Milman talks to Joseph Planta about her newest album, Make Someone Happy (Linus, 2007), and her current Canadian tour. She plays Vancouver's Centre for the Performing Arts, the 13th of December.

Ha Jin - Monday, 26 November 2007

Author and poet Ha Jin, a National Book Award winner and two-time winner of the PEN/Faulkner Award for his novels Waiting and War Trash, talks to Joseph Planta about his new novel A Free Life (Pantheon, 2007), a remarkable and already critically acclaimed novel about a Chinese immigrant's pursuit of the American Dream.

Richard Gwyn - Tuesday, 20 November 2007

Author and Toronto Star columnist Richard Gwyn talks to Joseph Planta about his biography of Canada's first prime minister, John A: The Man Who Made Us (Random House, 2007).

Chris Turner - Tuesday, 20 November 2007

Writer Chris Turner, author of the bestselling Planet Simpson, looks for a more sustainable world in his new hopeful book, The Geography of Hope: A Tour of the World We Need (Random House, 2007).

Jan Wong - Monday, 19 November 2007

Globe and Mail reporter Jan Wong talks to Joseph Planta about her new memoir Beijing Confidential: A Tale of Comrades Lost and Found (Doubleday, 2007).

Mike McCardell - Monday, 19 November 2007

Global BC's Mike McCardell talked to Joseph Planta about his latest collection of television pieces, The Blue Flames that Keep Us Warm, as well as his work as seen near the end of the highly rated News Hour broadcast, and how he comes up with his remarkable pieces.

John Gray - Friday, 16 November 2007

John Gray is considered one of the 'most important living philosophers' in the world today. He recently talked to Joseph Planta about his newest book Black Mass: Apocalyptic Religion and the Death of Utopia (Doubleday, 2007).

Amanda Sussman - Friday, 16 November 2007

Public policy adviser Amanda Sussman, a former adviser to cabinet ministers Elinor Caplan and Bill Graham, talks to Joseph Planta about her new book, The Art of the Possible: (A Handbook for Political Activism) (McClelland and Stewart, 2007).

Janice Gross Stein and Eugene Lang - Thursday, 15 November 2007

The Unexpected War: Canada in Kandahar is a remarkable book on how Canada ended up in Afghanistan. The book's authors, Janice Gross Stein and Eugene Lang talk to Joseph Planta about the inside story on Canada's involvement.

David Davidar - Thursday, 15 November 2007

Penguin Canada's president and publisher David Davidar recently talked to Joseph Planta about his new novel, The Solitude of Emperors (McClelland and Stewart, 2007), his writing, and the state of Canadian publishing.

Doreen Armitage - Thursday, 15 November 2007

BC author Doreen Armitage talks to Joseph Planta about her latest book, Tales from the Galley: Stories of the Working Waterfront (Harbour Publishing, 2007).

Bret Hart - Thursday, 08 November 2007

Calgary's own, and pro wrestling legend Bret Hart talks to Joseph Planta about his new memoir Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling (Random House, 2007).

Katherine Ashenburg - Thursday, 08 November 2007

Author Katherine Ashenburg looks at how clean we are, and were, in her new book, the fascinating The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History (Knopf, 2007).

Will Ferguson - Thursday, 08 November 2007

Author and humorist Will Ferguson talks to Joseph Planta about his new novel, Spanish Fly (Viking, 2007), a humorous rid through the American southwest with a group of memorable confidence tricksters.

Elizabeth Hay - Monday, 05 November 2007

Author Elizabeth Hay talks to Joseph Planta about her new novel, a 2007 Giller Prize nominee, Late Nights on Air (McClelland and Stewart, 2007).

Kiran Desai - Monday, 05 November 2007

Internationally acclaimed writer Kiran Desai recently spoke with Joseph Planta about her Booker Prize winning novel, The Inheritance of Loss (Penguin, 2007).

Albert C. Plant - Monday, 05 November 2007

After over 35 years of retail experience as an executive and consultant to some major Canadian companies, Albert C. Plant has written a new instructive book on the Canadian retailing business, The Retail Game: Playing to Win (Douglas and McIntyre, 2007). He recently spoke to Joseph Planta about the book.

Tom Flanagan - Monday, 22 October 2007

Tom Flanagan talks to Joseph Planta about his new book Harper's Team: Behind the Scenes in the Conservative Rise to Power (McGill-Queen's, 2007), and the central role he played in Stephen Harper's political campaigns.

Todd Babiak - Monday, 22 October 2007

Bestselling and critically acclaimed author and Edmonton Journal columnist Todd Babiak talks to Joseph Planta about, The Book of Stanley (McClelland and Stewart, 2007), his new novel about religion and how his characters react to it.

Phil Edmonston - Monday, 22 October 2007

Phil Edmonston, author of the hugely popular Lemon Aid series and the website http://www.lemonaidcars.com talks to Joseph Planta about the 2007 series, as well as discusses current automobile consumer issues.

Jeff Warren - Wednesday, 17 October 2007

Jeff Warren, the author of The Head Trip: Adventures on the Wheel of Consciousness (Random House, 2007) talks to Joseph Planta about his study of the 12 distinct, natural states of consciouness we experience in a 24-hour day.

Lorna Jackson - Wednesday, 17 October 2007

Cold-Cocked On Hockey (Biblioasis, 2007) is a new memoir from writer Lorna Jackson, who discussed her book-length appreciation of hockey with Joseph Planta.

Daniel Francis - Wednesday, 17 October 2007

Author, historian, and Geist contributor Daniel Francis recently spoke to Joseph Planta about his book, Red Light Neon: A History of Vancouver's Sex Trade (Subway, 2007).

Lauren Weedman - Wednesday, 03 October 2007

In 2001, Lauren Weedman joined The Daily Show as a featured correspondent; she's just written a new book that includes a chapter on that less than comfortable experience, as well as marriage, divorce, dating and being a most self-deprecating woman. She discussed A Woman Trapped in a Woman's Body: Stories from a Life of Cringe (Sasquatch, 2007) with Joseph Planta, as well talks about working with Jon Stewart, Steve Carrell, and Stephen Colbert, and more.

Stephen Marche - Wednesday, 03 October 2007

Author Stephen Marche talks to Joseph Planta about his new groundbreaking and inventive novel, Shining at the Bottom of the Sea (Viking, 2007).

Rona Maynard - Monday, 01 October 2007

Former Chatelaine editor Rona Maynard recently spoke to Joseph Planta about her new book My Mother's Daughter: A Memoir (McClelland and Stewart, 2007).

Anthony Sedlak - Friday, 28 September 2007

The Food Network debuts a new show on October 1st, The Main. Its star and former Superstar Chef Challenge winner Anthony Sedlak recently spoke to Joseph Planta about his brand new program.

Paul Myers - Thursday, 27 September 2007

Journalist, broadcaster, songwriter Paul Myers talks to Joseph Planta about his new book It Ain't Easy: Long John Baldry and the Birth of the British Blues (Greystone, 2007).

M.G. Vassanji - Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Two-time Giller winner M.G. Vassanji talks to Joseph Planta about his latest novel, The Assassin's Song (Doubleday, 2007), which was recently longlisted for this year's Giller Prize.

Christopher Bennett - Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Interim BC Green Party leader Christopher Bennett spoke with Joseph Planta yesterday about his tenure as leader, he also discussed his party's forthcoming leadership contest, his party's attempt to speak at the UBCM convention, as well as his outlook on British Columbia politics, and his future plans.

Bill Millerd - Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Bill Millerd, Artistic Director of the Arts Club Theatre Company, recently spoke with Joseph Planta about the Arts Club's 44th season, previewing the shows that'll run at the Granville Island Stage and the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage until next spring.

Gwynne Dyer - Friday, 21 September 2007

Independent journalist, author, filmmaker and broadcaster Gwynne Dyer recently spoke to Joseph Planta about his latest book, The Mess They Made: The Middle East After Iraq (McClelland & Stewart, 2007).

Matt Palmer - Friday, 21 September 2007

Actor Matt Palmer talks to Joseph Planta about his starring role in the Arts Club Theatre's production of the Stephen Sondheim musical Company, currently playing at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage until 14 October 2007.

Eve Lazarus - Friday, 21 September 2007

At Home with History: The Untold Secrets of Greater Vancouver's Heritage Homes is a new book from journalist Eve Lazarus (Anvil Press, 2007), who recently spoke with Joseph Planta.

Rachel Marsden - Friday, 14 September 2007

Political columnist and radio/TV personality Rachel Marsden talks with Joseph Planta about the state of American politics, the race for the Democratic and Republican presidential nomination, Senator Larry Craig, and what it's like living in New York.

Gail Anderson-Dargatz - Friday, 14 September 2007

Gail Anderson-Dargatz, the bestselling author of The Cure for Death By Lightning and A Recipe for Bees talks to Joseph Planta about her latest novel, Turtle Valley (Knopf, 2007).

The Hon. Iona Campagnolo - Thursday, 13 September 2007

The 27th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, The Honourable Iona Campagnolo talks to Joseph Planta as she prepares to leave office after six years about her work, the office of the Queen's representative to B.C., and her future plans.

Mike Harcourt - Monday, 10 September 2007

Former premier of British Columbia and Vancouver mayor, Mike Harcourt discusses his new book City Making in Paradise: Nine Decisions that Saved Greater Vancouver's Livability (Douglas & McIntyre, 2007) with Joseph Planta. Co-written with Ken Cameron and Sean Rossiter, the book looks at the public policy and planning decisions taken that's made the Greater Vancouver region as livable as it is today.

Craig Glenday - Monday, 10 September 2007

Craig Glenday, editor of the 2008 Guinness World Records (2007), recently spoke with Joseph Planta about the latest edition of the world's bestselling copyright book, as well as the odd and not-so odd records they keep track of; as well the Canadian records of note.

John Doyle - Friday, 29 June 2007

The Globe and Mail's television columnist and critic John Doyle talks to Joseph Planta about his 2005 memoir A Great Feast of Light: Growing Up Irish in the Television Age, which is out now in softcover (Anchor, 2007).

Michael Byers - Monday, 25 June 2007

International law expert and UBC professor Michael Byers recently discussed his new book Intent for a Nation: What is Canada For? (Douglas & McIntyre, 2007) with Joseph Planta.

J.B. MacKinnon - Monday, 25 June 2007

In The 100-Mile Diet: A Year of Local Eating, Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon have written an often funny, engrossing, and remarkable look at the food they ate in a year when they decided to eat food only grown within a 100-mile radius of their Vancouver home. J.B. MacKinnon recently talked to Joseph Planta to talk about the book, which is already a bestseller in Canada.

Dean Paul Gibson - Monday, 25 June 2007

Dean Paul Gibson, an Artistic Associate at Vancouver's Bard on the Beach recently talked to Joseph Planta about the production of Romeo and Juliet, he's directed, which plays in repertory at Vanier Park through to 22 September 2007.

Stevie Cameron - Wednesday, 20 June 2007

Journalist and bestselling author (On the Take, Blue Trust, The Last Amigo) Stevie Cameron joins Joseph Planta to talk about her latest book, The Pickton File (Knopf, 2007), a look at the 'Willie' Pickton trial, the women who disappeared and were murdered from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, and how she's covered this ongoing story.

Ron Saxen - Wednesday, 20 June 2007

The Good Eater is a memoir on Binge Eating Disorder; its author Ron Saxen talks about his struggle with the life-threatening eating disorder with Joseph Planta.

Andrew Cohen - Sunday, 03 June 2007

Journalist, professor and bestselling author (While Canada Slept) Andrew Cohen talked with Joseph Planta about his new bestselling book, The Unfinished Canadian: The People We Are (McClelland and Stewart, 2007).

Sean Cullen - Sunday, 03 June 2007

Comedian and novelist Sean Cullen has published his second novel, Hamish X and the Hollow Mountain (Puffin, 2007), which he recently discussed with Joseph Planta.

Barbara Coloroso - Monday, 14 May 2007

Internationally recognised education speaker and author Barbara Coloroso recently spoke to Joseph Planta about her book, Extraordinary Evil: A Brief History of Genocide (Viking, 2007).

Linda McQuaig - Monday, 14 May 2007

Journalist Linda McQuaig, author of seven Canadian bestsellers and a winner of a National Newspaper Award, recently spoke to Joseph Planta about her newest book, Holding the Bully's Coat: Canada and the US Empire (Doubleday, 2007).

Roy MacGregor - Tuesday, 08 May 2007

Globe and Mail columnist Roy MacGregor talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, Canadians: A Portrait of a Country and Its People.

Stephanie Nolen - Tuesday, 08 May 2007

The Africa correspondent for the Globe and Mail, Stephanie Nolen has written a new book, 28: Stories of AIDS in Africa. It's a remarkable book about the AIDS crisis in Africa. She recently spoke with Joseph Planta.

Mark MacKinnon - Tuesday, 01 May 2007

The Globe and Mail's Middle East correspondent, Mark MacKinnon talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, The New Cold War: Revolutions, Rigged Elections and Pipeline Politics in the Former Soviet Union.

Heather Summerhayes Cariou - Tuesday, 01 May 2007

Former actress and dancer, Heather Summerhayes Cariou recently spoke with Joseph Planta about her book Sixtyfive Roses: A Sister's Memoir, a telling and heartfelt memoir about her sister's battle with Cystic Fibrosis.

Julian Sher - Monday, 30 April 2007

Investigative journalist and writer Julian Sher returns to talk with Joseph Planta about his newest book, One Child at a Time: The Global Fight to Rescue Children from Online Predators (Random House Canada, 2007).

Andrea Mandel-Campbell - Monday, 30 April 2007

Business journalist Andrea Mandel-Campbell discussed her new book Why Mexicans Don't Drink Molson: Rescuing Canadian Business from the Suds of Global Obscurity (Douglas and McIntyre, 2007), with Joseph Planta.

John English - Friday, 22 December 2006

John English recently spoke to Joseph Planta about his bestseller, Citizen of the World: The Life of Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Volume One: 1919-1968, the first volume in his definitive look at the former Canadian prime minister's early life, his loves, and more. English, a former MP is a professor of history at the University of Waterloo, wrote the two-volume biography of Lester Pearson.

Paul Levy - Friday, 22 December 2006

River Queen: The Amazing Story of Tugboat Titan Lucille Johnstone chronicles the life of Lucille Johnstone, who began at Rivtow when it was but a three-boat operation, and ended up its CEO and president, of what became a giant in the marine transportation industry in British Columbia. Its author, Paul Levy recently spoke to Joseph Planta about the book, and about knowing Johnstone.

Mark Zuehlke - Friday, 22 December 2006

Author and military historian Mark Zuehlke recently talked to Joseph Planta about his book, For Honour's Sake: The War of 1812 and the Brokering of an Uneasy Peace (Knopf, 2006). He tells the story of Canada's most famous war vividly recreating the war as never before, providing context to some of countless legends that have come from the conflict which pitted the British and the Americans, that saw Canadians and Indians fight with the British, seeing Canadians burn down the White House.

Rafe Mair - Wednesday, 20 December 2006

Broadcaster and writer Rafe Mair returns to talk with Joseph Planta about his newest book, Over the Mountains: More Thoughts on Things That Matter. It's a wide-ranging chat on the wide-ranging subjects covered in the book: politics, the media, books, religion, death, and more.

Marian Botsford Fraser - Wednesday, 20 December 2006

Writer Marian Botsford Fraser has written an affecting and remarkable memoir about her brother's illness and death, Requiem for My Brother (Greystone, 2006). She recently spoke to Joseph Planta about her brother Dave, his battles with MS and skin cancer, their travels through the Canadian healthcare bureaucracy, and about writing this book.

Kevin Patterson - Tuesday, 19 December 2006

Consumption is a novel set in Canada's Arctic, and tells the story of Victoria, who is born on the tundra in 1950s, but who leaves for the south and grows accustomed to the lifestyle. Northern life clashes with southern life, as Victoria and her children adjust to the culture shock of it all-walrus meat versus fast food; satellite TV and the midnight sun. Throw in to the mix, Keith Balthazar, a doctor from Yonkers who comes to Rankin Inlet to do more harm than heal. The book's author, Kevin Patterson, himself an internist who lives on Salt Spring Island, but who practices in the Arctic, talked with Joseph Planta about his new novel.

Margaret MacMillan - Monday, 18 December 2006

The historian, Margaret MacMillan talked to Joseph Planta about her bestselling book Nixon in China: The Week that Changed the World (Viking, 2006). The bestselling author of Paris 1919, provost of Trinity College and professor of history at the University of Toronto writes about Richard Nixon's groundbreaking trip to China, the players involved and the history made. MacMillan is due to become warden of St. Antony's College at Oxford in 2007.

Senator Hugh Segal - Wednesday, 13 December 2006

Conservative Senator Hugh Segal recently spoke with Joseph Planta about current political affairs and his new book, The Long Road Back: The Conservative Journey, 1993-2006 (HarperCollins, 2006), an informed book on conservatism in Canada, and the renewed party and its players.

Paul Wells - Tuesday, 12 December 2006

A few weeks ago, Maclean's columnist Paul Wells talked with Joseph Planta about his bestselling book Right Side Up: The Fall of Paul Martin and the Rise of Stephen Harper's New Conservatism (Douglas Gibson, 2006), which documents Canada's recent political history and the two men who dominated, Paul Martin and Stephen Harper.

Don Martin - Tuesday, 21 November 2006

Columnist Don Martin talked with Joseph Planta about his new book Belinda: The Political and Private Life of Belinda Stronach (Key Porter, 2006), a biography of the Conservative turned Liberal MP and cabinet minister, who is arguably one of Canada's most fascinating political personalities.

Tony Aspler - Monday, 20 November 2006

Tony Aspler is arguably Canada's wine expert. The former Toronto Star columnist has written a robust new book, The Wine Atlas of Canada: The Indispensable Guide (Random House, 2006), which he recently talked to Joseph Planta about. It literally puts Canada's wine industry on the map with great photographs and profiles of the wines and wineries throughout Canada.

Stephen Brunt - Thursday, 14 November 2006

The Globe and Mail's Stephen Brunt, one of the nation's premier sports writers talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, Searching for Bobby Orr (Knopf, 2006).

The Hon. Jack Layton - Tuesday, 14 November 2006

From a busy street in Toronto, stumping for candidates in yesterday's municipal elections, federal NDP leader, The Hon. Jack Layton, called in to talk with Joseph Planta about his newly revised book, Speaking Out Louder: Ideas That Work for Canadians (Key Porter, 2006). Layton also talked about working with prime ministers Paul Martin and Stephen Harper, his ideas for Canada's future, our role in Afghanistan, the challenges posed by Bob Rae and the Liberals, and the Green Party, as well as electoral reform.

Jean-Benoît Nadeau - Friday, 10 November 2006

Jean-Benoît Nadeau and Julie Barlow's new book, The Story of French (Knopf, 2006), is a study of the life of the French language, its development, spread, history, and future, and just how the French language has survived despite English's prevalence, as well as other languages. Nadeau joined Joseph Planta to talk about the book, how he learned English, how Barlow learned French, and their plans to adopt twins from Haiti.

Thomas Homer-Dixon - Thursday, 09 November 2006

Internationally-renowned thinker and bestselling author (The Ingenuity Gap), Thomas Homer-Dixon, Director of the Trudeau Centre for the Study of Peace and Conflict at the University of Toronto, talked to Joseph Planta about his timely and highly readable new book, The Upside of Down: Catastrophe, Creativity, and the Renewal of Civilization (Knopf, 2006).

Ben Mulroney - Wednesday, 08 November 2006

CTV's Ben Mulroney made a return appearance to the Planta: On the Line program to talk with Joseph Planta about his recent mission to Malawi, which he undertook as a National Ambassador to UNICEF.

Bob Plamondon - Tuesday, 07 November 2006

Full Circle: Death and Resurrection in Canadian Conservative Politics (Key Porter, 2006) is a new book by conservative insider and public policy specialist, Bob Plamondon. Recently, he talked with Joseph Planta about the book, that for the first time sets forth a definitive account of the events that lead to the rebirth of the Conservative Party of Canada. He discussed the players involved, Stephen Harper, Peter MacKay, Preston Manning, Joe Clark, Belinda Stronach, and Brian Mulroney.

Wayne Johnston - Monday, 06 November 2006

Bestselling and acclaimed author Wayne Johnston recently spoke with Joseph Planta about his latest novel, The Custodian of Paradise (Knopf, 2006). As well, Johnston talked about how he wrote, and how he created his most remembered characters.

Christopher Gaze - Wednesday, 28 June 2006

The indomitable Christopher Gaze talks with Joseph Planta about the 17th season of Bard on the Beach, the plays they're putting on (A Midsummer Night's Dream, Measure for Measure, The Winter's Tale, and Troilus and Cressida), and other things Shakespeare.

John Mann - Wednesday, 24 May 2006

Spirit of the West's John Mann, opening tonight as the Emcee in Cabaret, talked with Joseph Planta about his starring role in the Arts Club Theatre Company's latest. Mann discussed the Kander and Ebb musical, performing on the stage, his tour-de-force performance in last year's Miss Saigon, and the legendary role that won Joel Grey a Tony and an Oscar.

Julian Sher - Wednesday, 24 May 2006

Journalist Julian Sher recently spoke with Joseph Planta about his new book, Angels of Death: Inside the Bikers' Global Crime Empire (Knopf, 2006), which he co-authored with William Marsden, a timely look at the Hells Angels, and other bikers who've met the attention of the public, not to mention law enforcement.

Mike Leonard- Thursday, 27 April 2006

A couple of years ago, NBC News and Today Show correspondent Mike Leonard decided to take his elderly parents and his children on a RV trip across the United States. He talked with Joseph Planta about the journey, its foibles, hilarity, bonding, and more, which are recounted in his new book, The Ride of Our Lives: Roadside Lessons of an American Family (Ballantine, 2006), soon to be a major motion picture.

Brian O'Dea - Thursday, 27 April 2006

Film and television producer Brian O'Dea talked with Joseph Planta about his past, which includes prison stays for drug smuggling, cocaine addiction, and more, which he writes about in his new compelling book, High: Confessions of a Pot Smuggler (Random House, 2006), soon to be a major motion picture.

Bob Plecas - Wednesday, 19 April 2006

Political pundit and former bureaucrat Bob Plecas talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, Bill Bennett: A Mandarin's View (Douglas & McIntyre, 2006), a memoir on the former premier of British Columbia (1975-1986).

Tony Hendra - Tuesday, 18 April 2006

Satirist and bestselling author Tony Hendra talked with Joseph Planta about his new novel, The Messiah of Morris Avenue (Henry Holt, 2006), a funny and insightful novel about what would happen if Christ came back to walk amongst a nation where the religious right dominates every aspect of American life. Hendra also offers his thoughts about the current political climate in the United States, and his previous memoir, Father Joe, is also discussed.

Jean-Marc Leger - Tuesday, 18 April 2006

What are the issues that most concerns the world today? The gap between the rich and poor? Terrorism? Hunger? Jean-Marc Leger, President of Leger Marketing was on to talk with Joseph Planta about a new worldwide survey he's directed, a remarkable poll of 53,749 citizens in 68 countries on what the world is concerned with. Accompanying the survey is a new book which reports on their findings, Voice of the People 2006: What the World Thinks on Today's Global Issues (Transcontinental, 2006).

Terry Glavin - Thursday, 13 April 2006

Acclaimed journalist and conservationist Terry Glavin talked with Joseph Planta about his new book Waiting for the Macaws: And Other Stories from the Age of Extinctions (Viking, 2006), a fascinating and well-written book on his travels around the world encountering peoples attitudes toward plant and animal species, as well as languages that are seemingly fading away.

Jonathan Ross - Thursday, 13 April 2006

Political strategist Jonathan Ross, of TDH Strategies, talked with Joseph Planta about the current Liberal leadership race.

Michael Kwan - Thursday, 13 April 2006

Michael Kwan talked cars and his new website, michaelkwan.com, with Joseph Planta.

Katrina Onstad - Tuesday, 04 April 2006

Former National Post film columnist, Katrina Onstad talked with Joseph Planta about her new book, How Happy to Be (McClelland and Stewart, 2006), an engaging book about an entertainment writer at a failing neo-con paper, who's celebrity-obsessed and trying to find herself.

Leah McLaren - Monday, 06 March 2006

Leah McLaren from the Globe and Mail talked with Joseph Planta about her new bestselling novel, The Continuity Girl (HarperCollins, 2006). She discussed her book's heroine, the 'sperm bandit' Meredith Moore, and the reaction that the book has had so far, including a rather savage review from Ryan Bigge.

Heather Pringle - Monday, 06 March 2006

Author and journalist Heather Pringle joined Joseph Planta to discuss her new book, The Master Plan: Himmler's Scholars and the Holocaust (Viking, 2006), an engrossing and fascinating look at Heinrich Himmler and the elite Nazi institute, the Ahnenerbe, which was responsible for manipulating science and re-writing pre-history during Hitler's regime.

Michael Adams - Friday, 13 January 2006

Michael Adams, president of Envronics, talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, American Backlash: The Untold Story of Social Change in the United States (Viking, 2005). As a pollster, he offered his thoughts on the current federal election campaign in Canada, and the substance of his book, the direction of America, politically and culturally.

Edward McWhinney - Friday, 13 January 2006

In a fascinating conversation, constitutional scholar and former MP Dr. Edward McWhinney talked with Joseph Planta about his new book The Governor General and the Prime Ministers: The Making and Unmaking of Governments (Ronsdale Press, 2005). Also discussed is the significance of the office in our country's politics, and the possibility of reform.

Adam Daifallah - Friday, 13 January 2006

Journalist and author Adam Daifallah, co-author of Rescuing Canada's Right: Blueprint for a Conservative Revolution, talked with Joseph Planta about the conservative revolution in Canada and how it's going, offering his thoughts on what right-minded people should do.

Alison Schamberger - Friday, 13 January 2006

Neil Simon's Lost in Yonkers is running at the Metro Theatre until 11 February 2006. Its director Alison Schamberger talked with Joseph Planta about the production.

Steve Paikin - Thursday, 12 January 2006

This past Monday, TV Ontario's Steve Paikin moderated the English-language leaders debate between Gilles Duceppe, Stephen Harper, Jack Layton, Paul Martin. He talks to Joseph Planta about the experience and what it was like in the room.

Tasha Kheiriddin - Thursday, 12 January 2006

Tasha Kheiriddin talked with Joseph Planta about her new book, which she co-wrote with Adam Daifallah, Rescuing Canada's Right: Blueprint for a Conservative Revolution (Wiley, 2005). Kheiriddin is also the Ontario director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation

Stephen Clarkson - Thursday, 12 January 2006

University of Toronto political science professor Stephen Clarkson talked with Joseph Planta about his new book, The Big Red Machine: How the Liberal Party Dominates Canadian Politics (UBC Press, 2005).

Lloyd Mackey - Wednesday, 23 November 2005

A new book, The Pilgrimage of Stephen Harper (ECW Press, 2005) attempts to shed a little more light on the politics and faith of Conservative Party leader Stephen Harper. Its author Lloyd Mackey talked with Joseph Planta about the book, and about the man who could be prime minister.

Howard White - Wednesday, 23 November 2005

Harbour Publishing's Howard White joined Joseph Planta to talk about Raincoast Chronicles Fourth Five, which he's edited, a large collection of stories, poems and articles on British Columbia identity, culture, and history.

Kim Bolan - Wednesday, 12 October 2005

Kim Bolan, the Vancouver Sun reporter who has spent 20 years covering and who sometimes found herself part of the Air India bombing story, talked with Joseph Planta about her new book, Loss of Faith: How the Air-India Bombers Got Away with Murder (McClelland and Stewart, 2005).

Jerry Wasserman - Friday, 07 October 2005

In a wide ranging chat, Jerry Wasserman, theatre critic for The Province, actor, professor of English and Theatre at the University of British Columbia, and editor of Vancouverplays.com, talked with Joseph Planta about his website, being a theatre critic, and the vibrancy of the arts scene in Vancouver.

Jean Barman - Tuesday, 04 October 2005

Noted historian and bestselling author Jean Barman talked with Joseph Planta about her latest book Stanley Park's Secret: The Forgotten Families of Whoi Whoi, Kanaka Ranch and Brockton Point (Harbour, 2005), a fascinating book about inhabitants of the park who were displaced in order to create the constructed ideal of an urban oasis.

Jim Taylor - Wednesday, 28 September 2005

Joseph Planta has a neat conversation with the sports columnist and author Jim Taylor, who has edited a new book, The Best of Jim Coleman: Fifty Years of Canadian Sport from the Man Who Saw it All (Harbour, 2005). It's a collection of the legendary Coleman's classic columns representing a remarkable look back at Canada and the sports that the country watched.

Stewart Bell - Monday, 26 September 2005

The National Post's Stewart Bell talked with Joseph Planta about his latest book, The Martyr's Oath: The Apprenticeship of a Homegrown Terrorist.

Jonathan Ross - Monday, 26 September 2005

Jonathan Ross of TDH Strategies, a communciations and public policy firm, talked with Joseph Planta about all matter of politics--from Christy Clark's political future after losing the NPA mayoralty nomination, to the future of Larry Campbell as a senator, to the federal scene about a Martin cabinet shuffle, Pierre Pettigrew, and Stephen Harper's grasp of the leadership of the Conservative Party.