Shane Hewitt and Lori Williams (an associate professor at Mount Royal University), agree that significant differences exist between the eastern and western regions of Canada, stemming from variations in political culture and economic policies. While acknowledging shared Canadian values, they highlight Western frustration regarding feeling ignored and disadvantaged by Eastern-centric policies, citing examples like the disproportionate impact of emissions caps on the oil and gas industry and the historical perception of Western provinces as politically insignificant. Although Western separatism sentiment exists, Williams believes the dominant feeling is one of anger and frustration rather than outright secession. She suggests that addressing these concerns through meaningful dialogue and acknowledging the historical grievances is crucial for fostering national unity and building a more inclusive Canada. The conversation emphasizes the need for both federal and provincial governments to collaborate, including Indigenous communities, to address Western concerns and capitalize on the current opportunity to strengthen national unity.

Military expert and a senior fellow at MLI, Richard Shimooka joins Shane Hewitt to highlight Canada's struggles with defense procurement. The process is far more complex than civilian purchasing, demanding cutting-edge technology to counter evolving threats, a process Canada excelled at historically but now struggles with due to a focus on political risk aversion and industrial benefits. This has resulted in lengthy, costly processes that hinder military readiness and morale. Shimooka advocates for a more proactive approach, including strategic partnerships and calculated risks to strengthen domestic supply chains and technological capabilities, and emphasizes empowering skilled professionals within the Department of National Defence to improve efficiency and innovation.

Shane Hewitt and Lori Williams (an associate professor at Mount Royal University), agree that significant differences exist between the eastern and western regions of Canada, stemming from variations in political culture and economic policies. While acknowledging shared Canadian values, they highlight Western frustration regarding feeling ignored and disadvantaged by Eastern-centric policies, citing examples like the disproportionate impact of emissions caps on the oil and gas industry and the historical perception of Western provinces as politically insignificant. Although Western separatism sentiment exists, Williams believes the dominant feeling is one of anger and frustration rather than outright secession. She suggests that addressing these concerns through meaningful dialogue and acknowledging the historical grievances is crucial for fostering national unity and building a more inclusive Canada. The conversation emphasizes the need for both federal and provincial governments to collaborate, including Indigenous communities, to address Western concerns and capitalize on the current opportunity to strengthen national unity.
Military expert and a senior fellow at MLI, Richard Shimooka joins Shane Hewitt to highlight Canada's struggles with defense procurement. The process is far more complex than civilian purchasing, demanding cutting-edge technology to counter evolving threats, a process Canada excelled at historically but now struggles with due to a focus on political risk aversion and industrial benefits. This has resulted in lengthy, costly processes that hinder military readiness and morale. Shimooka advocates for a more proactive approach, including strategic partnerships and calculated risks to strengthen domestic supply chains and technological capabilities, and emphasizes empowering skilled professionals within the Department of National Defence to improve efficiency and innovation.

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.

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