A company most people assumed was long gone just became an unlikely symbol of resistance. Vass Bednar, managing director of the Canadian Shield Institute, explains why MapQuest's refusal to rename Lake Ontario turned into a genuine online moment, one that MapQuest itself has leaned into.

There may be more behind Google's decision to comply than political pressure alone. Bednar draws a line between an active EU fine against Google and the timing of its naming change, raising the question of whether this was really about following an executive order at all.

She also explains exactly what these mapping platforms are built to track about the people using them, information that has very little to do with actually finding your way somewhere.

Topics: MapQuest, Vass Bednar, Google Maps surveillance, Trump executive order, data privacy

GUEST: Vass Bednar | https://canadianshieldinstitute.ca/

Originally aired on 2026-09-03

A company most people assumed was long gone just became an unlikely symbol of resistance. Vass Bednar, managing director of the Canadian Shield Institute, explains why MapQuest's refusal to rename Lake Ontario turned into a genuine online moment, one that MapQuest itself has leaned into.
There may be more behind Google's decision to comply than political pressure alone. Bednar draws a line between an active EU fine against Google and the timing of its naming change, raising the question of whether this was really about following an executive order at all.
She also explains exactly what these mapping platforms are built to track about the people using them, information that has very little to do with actually finding your way somewhere.
Topics: MapQuest, Vass Bednar, Google Maps surveillance, Trump executive order, data privacy
GUEST: Vass Bednar |<a href="https://canadianshieldinstitute.ca/"> https://canadianshieldinstitute.ca/</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-09-03

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.