Ship of Fools Podcast with Steven Malkowich

Where Wit Meets Wisdom

Full Episodes

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Catch every new episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast right here. Hosted by Steven Malkowich, Where Wit Meets Wisdom in conversations that range from the philosophical to the absurd.

Our title may be tongue-in-cheek, but the curiosity is real. We explore politics, sports, and human choices with sharp wit, real conversations and open minds.

Watch below or tune in on your favourite platform, Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts and more.

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John Rustad After the BC Conservative Shakeup

Former BC Conservative leader John Rustad joins Ship of Fools for a good-faith conversation about British Columbia, leadership, Indigenous land issues, resource development, and what comes next for B.C. politics.

This is a different kind of political conversation. We talk about John Rustad the person — his upbringing in northern B.C., his background in forestry and business, and the life experience that shaped his approach to public service.

We also get into the major issues facing British Columbia today: the rise of the BC Conservatives, the 2024 provincial election, public frustration with the current direction of the province, and what practical solutions could look like beyond political talking points.

FIFA World Cup Comes to Vancouver — Where’s the Legacy?

The FIFA World Cup is coming to Vancouver — but what kind of legacy will it leave behind?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Ray Goldenchild, Vancouver soccer coach and founder of Orix Soccer Academy, for a grounded conversation about the upcoming FIFA World Cup, local soccer, youth development, public spending, and the real community impact of hosting one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

If Vancouver and Canada can spend huge sums to host World Cup matches, what does that say about what we are willing — or not willing — to invest in the kids, coaches, clubs, fields, and communities that keep soccer alive all year long?

Can Vancouver Be Fixed? Wes Regan on Planning, Policy & Hope

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we sit down with Wes Regan for a thoughtful and hopeful conversation about Vancouver, public planning, government policy, community development, and what it really takes to build better cities.

Wes Regan is a Senior Policy Lead with Vancouver Coastal Health and a PhD Candidate at UBC’s School of Community and Regional Planning. His work explores public trust, communication, conflict, misinformation, and how communities respond to planning and policy decisions — including the public debate around the 15-Minute City.

How Jimmy Crescenzo Is Changing Young Lives in East Vancouver

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Jimmy Crescenzo, founder of the East End Boys Club, to talk about East Vancouver, mentorship, education, and what it really takes to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Jimmy’s story begins in East Vancouver, where his roots, upbringing, and connection to the community shaped the work he would eventually dedicate his life to. Before founding the East End Boys Club, Jimmy worked as an actor and became a teacher at Templeton Secondary, where he saw firsthand how many young people were struggling with family challenges, school disengagement, lack of mentorship, and the risk of falling through the cracks.

Why the Social Sciences Matter with Dr. Laurel Weldon

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven sits down with Dr. Laurel Weldon, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Simon Fraser University, for a thoughtful conversation about democracy, women’s rights, public life, and why the social sciences matter more than ever.

Dr. Weldon is a Distinguished SFU Professor, political scientist, and Dean of SFU’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Her research focuses on comparative public policy, social movements, feminist theory, violence against women, women’s human rights, and democratic governance. SFU notes that her work has also informed consulting for organizations including UN Women, the World Bank, and governments.

The Making of “The Wolf”: Sage Johnson’s Fight for the 2028 Olympics

Sage “The Wolf” Johnson is fighting for more than wins. He’s fighting for his future, his name, and a shot at the 2028 Olympics.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Sage Johnson opens up about the personal challenges that shaped him, the reality of growing up with obstacles, and what it takes to keep pushing toward elite-level boxing when nothing comes easy.

This is a deeper conversation with the fighter behind “The Wolf” — the discipline, the pressure, the setbacks, the mindset, and the dream of representing himself, his community, and his country on the Olympic stage.

Meet Troy Van Vliet: Why He’s Running for Surrey Mayor

Surrey is heading into a major municipal election in 2026, and voters are starting to ask an important question: who is ready to lead one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities?

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven sits down with Troy Van Vliet, candidate for Mayor of Surrey, for a personal and practical conversation about why he is running, what he is hearing from families and business owners, and what kind of leadership he believes Surrey needs next.

Troy is running with Surrey Now, a new civic team focused on safe streets, smart growth, and strong families. The message is centred on practical solutions, responsible growth, strong communities, and the belief that “if it’s good for families, it’s good for Surrey.”

Why Small Businesses Are Being Crushed in BC & Canada

Why is it getting harder to run a small business in British Columbia and across Canada?

In this episode, Steven Malkowich sits down with Ryan Mitton of Canadian Federation of Independant Businesses to break down the real pressures hitting entrepreneurs: taxes, red tape, labour shortages, retail crime, and the rising cost of doing business.

Ryan Mitton is CFIB’s Director of Legislative Affairs for British Columbia, where he leads public policy, research, advocacy, and communications work focused on supporting small businesses across the province.

CFIB - Stop the PST TAX Grab on Business, sign their petition here.

BC Budget 2026: Higher Taxes, More Debt & What They’re Not Saying

B.C.’s new budget promises stability.

The numbers tell a much more expensive story.

B.C.’s latest budget is out, and the political spin is everywhere. In this episode, repeat guest Carson Binda of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation joins us to break down what the numbers actually say and what British Columbians should be paying much closer attention to.

We get into the projected $13.3 billion deficit, the rising debt load, growing interest costs, the tax changes hitting paycheques, and why projects like the George Massey Tunnel remain such a flashpoint for commuters and taxpayers alike.

Jordan Bateman: Why BC Feels So Expensive Now

British Columbians are feeling squeezed — by housing costs, taxes, government spending, red tape, and a growing sense that common sense has left the building.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven Malkowich sits down with Jordan Bateman, Vice-President of Communications and Marketing at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association, former B.C. Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, former Langley Township Councillor, journalist, writer, and longtime public policy commentator.

Graham Clark on Canadian Comedy, Podcasting & Making It Work

Graham Clark joins Ship of Fools to talk about building a comedy career in Canada, the Vancouver scene, Stop Podcasting Yourself, and what it really takes to make a life in comedy. Funny, honest, and very conversational.

We talk about how Graham got started, what Canadian comedy gives you, what it makes harder, how Stop Podcasting Yourself became such a lasting show, and why making people laugh for a living is a lot stranger than most people think.

Graham Clark is a Canadian comedian, writer, and podcaster known for his long-running work in stand-up and for co-hosting Stop Podcasting Yourself. This episode about comedy, survival, creativity, podcasting, and what it really looks like to build a lasting career in Canada.

Are BC Land Claims Hurting Property Values? | Jason Upton

A landmark B.C. court ruling has triggered real concern across the Lower Mainland. In this episode, Steven sits down with Jason Upton, President of Aedis Appraisals, to discuss the Cowichan decision, what it may mean for homeowners and buyers, and how uncertainty around land claims could be affecting appraisals, financing, and property values in British Columbia.

Jason brings the perspective of a long-time Lower Mainland appraiser working with real files, real deals, and real lending decisions. This conversation breaks down the difference between legal risk and confidence risk, why public perception may be moving the market, and whether B.C. property owners are reacting to facts, fear, or something in between.

Trump, Iran & $150 Oil: What Happens Next?

Trump, Iran, oil prices, and the threat of wider conflict are dominating headlines — but what actually matters, and what is just noise?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, Steven Malkowich sits down with returning guest Dr. Aaron Hoffman, Professor of Political Science at Simon Fraser University, to break down the current Iran crisis in plain English. They unpack what is really happening between Iran, Israel, and the United States, why the Strait of Hormuz matters so much, how conflict in the region can turn into higher fuel prices, and whether this moment is being driven by strategy, instinct, political theatre, or all three at once.

This is a serious but accessible conversation about war, markets, messaging, public confusion, and what listeners should be watching next as events continue to move fast.

THE SURGEON'S ODYSSEY

Canada has a doctor shortage, yet internationally trained physicians face major barriers to practicing medicine in Canada. In this episode we sit down with Dr. Raghav Saini, an orthopedic surgeon practicing in Surrey, British Columbia.

Dr. Saini’s journey to practicing medicine in Canada was anything but straightforward.

His story highlights the resilience required for internationally trained physicians to build careers in the Canadian healthcare system.

Is BC Losing Crown Land? Musqueam Deal & Cowichan Ruling

British Columbia is 95% Crown land.

So why are so many British Columbians saying they have no voice in how it’s being managed?

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast,  host Steven Malkowich sit downs with Warren Mirko, Executive Director of the Public Land Use Society (PLUS), to unpack the rapidly evolving land governance landscape in BC.

Is Surrey Getting Safer? Inside Surrey Police, Crime & the RCMP Transition

Is Surrey actually getting safer — or does it just feel more dangerous? Episode filmed January 11, 2026.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, host Steven Malkowich sit downs with Sgt. Tige Pollock of the Surrey Police Service joins us for a candid conversation about crime trends, the RCMP transition, gang activity, and what policing really looks like on the ground in 2026.

Now that SPS is the official police of jurisdiction, what is actually different on the ground?

BC Politics in Chaos? Eby, DRIPA & the Conservative Leadership Fight

BC politics feels increasingly unstable — but is it chaos… or strategy?

Long-time investigative journalist Bob Mackin, publisher of theBreaker.news, joins Ship of Fools Podcast for a candid, fact-driven breakdown of what’s really happening in British Columbia politics.

Rumble at the Rock 2026: Manny Sobral & Buckskin Gloves

Returning guest Manny Sobral is back to talk about one of the most anticipated amateur boxing events in Western Canada — Rumble at the Rock 2026 — and the continued growth of Buckskin Gloves.

This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a world-class Olympic-style boxing event, why amateur boxing matters, and how Canadian fighters are rising through the ranks.

Comedy, Discomfort & Being Human | Simon King on Politics & Truth

Comedian Simon King joins the Ship of Fools Podcast for a thoughtful conversation about comedy, politics, culture, and what it means to stay human in uncomfortable times.

Simon’s work lives where wit meets wisdom—using humor to explore fear, bigotry, accountability, and the quiet tensions shaping how we talk to one another today. When comedians go after heavy topics, what’s the job of the comic: to provoke, to clarify, to challenge, or simply to tell the truth in a way people can actually hear?

Renee Good, Alex Pretti & Trump’s America: Domestic Terror & Canada

The fatal shootings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by U.S. federal agents — and their immediate labeling as “domestic terrorists” — have ignited outrage, confusion, and fear across the United States.

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Aaron M. Hoffman, Professor of Political Science at Simon Fraser University, to help make sense of what’s happening inside Donald Trump’s America — and why it matters deeply for Canada.

BC Politics in Limbo: Canadian Identity & Nationalism with Dr. Sanjay Jeram

Canada is navigating a moment of political uncertainty — and British Columbia may be at the center of it.

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we’re joined by Dr. Sanjay Jeram, a Political Science professor at Simon Fraser University, whose research focuses on nationalism, immigration, political culture, and territorial politics.

This conversation explores what the current uncertainty around BC’s official opposition and leadership reveals about Canadian identity, nationalism, and who we are as a country.

Cowichan Land Case Explained: Aboriginal Title, UNDRIP & Government Responsibility

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we speak with Thomas Isaac, Chair of the Aboriginal Law Group at Cassels, to explain the legal foundations and governance implications of the Cowichan Tribes land title case.

This conversation focuses on how Aboriginal title functions under Canadian law, why courts addressed the concept of defeasible title, and where responsibility truly lies when unresolved treaties intersect with modern legislation.

We examine the role of UNDRIP and British Columbia’s DRIPA framework, how authority may be shifting from elected officials to the judiciary, and why First Nations are not the cause of legal uncertainty — but rather decades of governmental inaction.

Why BC-Built Solar Beats China Imports | Chris Voute, Lumera Solar

In this episode of Ship of Fools Podcast, we sit down with Chris Voute, founder of Lumera Solar, to explore what it really takes to build a solar company from the ground up.

Chris shares his self-taught origin story, the birth of Lumera Solar, and the deliberate decision to manufacture solar products in British Columbia instead of China — even when offshore production would have been easier.

This is an honest, grounded conversation about entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and the future of solar in Canada — without the hype.

🔗 Learn more about Lumera Solar: https://lumerasolar.com/

How Tariffs Are Crushing Small Businesses | Importing & Exporting Explained

In this episode, we sit down with Dave Armstrong, founder of CS Designs, to unpack the real-world impact of tariffs on small businesses.

Dave offers a firsthand look at how tariffs have reshaped his business — from rising costs and delayed shipments to the complex realities of importing and exporting in today’s global economy. This is not theory or political talking points — it’s the lived experience of a business owner navigating supply chains, trade policies, and survival in an increasingly unpredictable market.

Learn more about Dave’s work: https://csdesigns.biz/

Building a Legacy: Troy Van Vliet’s Vision for Saint John Paul II Academy

How do you build something that lasts for generations?

Troy Van Vliet shares the real story behind bringing Saint John Paul II Academy to life in South Surrey.

This episode is about more than construction or business. It’s about community leadership, building with purpose, and creating something meaningful that outlives you.

Learn more about Saint John Paul II Academy here: https://www.sjp2academy.com/

Our First-Ever Live Performance: Alex Alegria Brings Mariachi to the Studio | Ship of Fools Podcast

Join host Steven Malkowich as he sits down with Alex Alegria — the “King of Mariachi” and founder of the iconic Canadian mariachi band Los Dorados.

Alex shares his journey from Oaxaca to Vancouver, how he built Los Dorados into a multicultural mariachi powerhouse, and how music continues to bridge communities across Canada.

Plus — a special in-studio mariachi performance you won’t forget.

Learn more about Los Dorados: https://www.losdoradoscanada.com/

The Truth About FIFA Vancouver Costs & the Future of Local Soccer

Is the FIFA World Cup really worth it for Vancouver? Ray Goldenchild joins the Ship of Fools Podcast for a candid breakdown of rising costs, hidden risks, and whether the event will truly benefit taxpayers and local soccer.

Ray—coach and founder of Orix Soccer Academy—shares why he’s skeptical about the long-term community impact, what past mega events taught us, and what he’d change if he were in charge.

He also dives into the mission behind Orix: developing individual talent, creating affordable access for all kids, and building a “soccer family” through community programs, fundraisers, and international trips.

Is Your Land Title at Risk? Cowichan Ruling & Eby’s Appeal Explained

Adam Pankratz breaks down the Cowichan decision, what it actually means for private property, why Premier David Eby is appealing, and how this could impact homeowners, renters, developers, and lenders across B.C.

We cut through misinformation, explain the real risks, and reveal why the Public Land Use Society (PLUS) was created to protect transparency and public access.

Essential viewing for anyone living or investing in British Columbia.

Learn More about the Public Land Use Society - PLUS organization here.

Rod Giltaca on the Truth About Canada’s Firearms Debate

Why was the Canadian Coalition for Firearms Rights really created?

And why are so many Canadians — even those who don’t own guns — starting to pay attention?

In this episode, Rod Giltaca, CEO & Executive Director of the CCFR, joins host Steven Malkowich for an honest, unfiltered conversation about Canada’s firearms debate: what’s true, what’s misleading, and what Canadians aren’t hearing in mainstream discussions.

Rod shares the story behind the CCFR’s founding, the misconceptions he’s fighting to correct, and why he believes responsible firearm owners have been misrepresented for years.

Together, we unpack the impact of Bill C-21, the federal buyback program, the role of media narratives, and why this debate matters far beyond gun ownership. It’s about rights, accountability, and the future of public policy in Canada.

Canada’s Top 10 Political Fools Exposed ft. Carson Binda

Who made Canada’s Top 10 Political Fools of 2025?

Host Steven Malkowich and returning guest Carson Binda (BC Director, Canadian Taxpayers Federation) count down the most outrageous government blunders, wasteful spending sprees, and political facepalms of the year.

From billion-dollar boondoggles to policies that would make a clown blush, this Ship of Fools special exposes the biggest offenders — with sharp wit, fearless commentary, and a few hard truths Canadians need to hear.

Subscribe if you’re tired of political nonsense and love honest, funny commentary.

Jesse Johl: Fighting Food Waste & Feeding the Lower Mainland

In this episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, Vancouver community leader Jesse Johl shares how the Queen Elizabeth Lions Club are fighting food waste and feeding families across the Lower Mainland—with no funding, no pay, and no government support.

Jesse opens up about the shocking scale of food waste in our region—perfectly good food discarded simply because of short-dated pallets or labeling tactics designed to increase turnover. His mission: get that food to people who need it most.

From organizing volunteers to personally driving truckloads of food, Jesse shows how one person’s commitment to community can feed more than stomachs—it feeds souls.

Connor Robinson on Lacrosse, the NLL & Why It’s Too Tough to Ignore

On this episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, we sit down with Connor Robinson, forward for the Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League (NLL), to talk about the sport that should be on everyone’s radar — box lacrosse.

Born and raised in New Westminster, BC, Connor shares how he went from a local kid drafted in Langley to becoming one of the NLL’s standout players. We dig into what makes box lacrosse so addictive — the speed, strategy, and full-contact chaos — and why it deserves a much bigger spotlight.

Brayden Sutton on Risk, Reinvention & The Capital Markets

Growing up in Abbotsford, B.C. during a turbulent time taught Brayden Sutton that risk and resilience go hand in hand. In this episode, Host Steven Malkowich and Brayden reflect on how his chaotic upbringing shaped his view on life and business, leading from early ventures in cannabis to today’s leadership in capital markets.

As the CEO of Digital Commodities Capital, Brayden discusses navigating uncertainty, building conviction, and staying grounded in a speculative world. This conversation focuses on mindset, growth, and the lessons learned from early life's challenges.

Can Raw Honey Cure Allergies? Dr. Iman Tabani Explains the Buzz

Can raw honey really help cure allergies and boost your immune system?

In this episode, Dr. Iman Tabani—a medical doctor turned Canadian beekeeper—shares how nature’s purest sweetener might just be the key to better health.

• Why raw honey may help reduce seasonal allergies
• The truth about pasteurized vs. raw honey
• What we can learn from the world of bees
• How Dr. Tabani turned a passion for health into a thriving honey farm in British Columbia

Learn more about Dr. Tabani’s work: https://bcbhoneyfarm.com/

Lee Aaron's Untold Story of Canada’s Metal Queen

She’s the voice that broke barriers in the ’80s rock and metal scene. Known worldwide as the “Metal Queen,” Canadian icon Lee Aaron has lived a career full of highs, reinventions, and lessons in survival in an industry that wasn’t always welcoming to women.

In this episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, Steven Malkowich sits down with Lee Aaron for a raw and revealing conversation.

Learn More: https://www.leeaaron.com/

Carson Binda Exposes Where Your Tax Dollars Go & Why You Should Be Concerned

Ever wonder where your tax dollars really go?

In this episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, host Steven Malkowich sits down with Carson Binda, BC Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, for a candid conversation on government waste, taxpayer accountability, and why every Canadian should care about how public money is spent.

Learn More: https://www.taxpayer.com/

Enrico Fioretti’s Rise From Dreamer to 3D Animator in Hollywood Visual Effects

Ever dream of becoming a 3D animator in the Hollywood visual effects industry?

In this inspiring episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, host Steven Malkowich sits down with Enrico Fioretti, a small-town dreamer who worked his way into the world’s top visual effects studios — including Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Wētā Digital, and Double Negative and now Netflix.

The Doctor is In with Dr. Taylor Burkinshaw

This week on Ship of Fools, we sit down with Dr. Taylor Burkinshaw—a Canadian Doctor of Chiropractic based in South Surrey, BC who isn’t just about adjustments, but about asking deeper questions. From navigating the intense Canadian chiropractic program to exploring the limits of what rehab and therapy should look like, Dr. Burkinshaw brings a fresh, no-BS perspective to modern health.

To find Dr. Burkinshaw contact www.grandviewhealthgroup.ca

Quantum Computing, Startups & the Future of Tech | Dr. Adrian Bulzacki

What is quantum computing — and why does it matter now?

Join host Steven Malkowich as he welcomes Dr. Adrian Bulzacki, a tech visionary, entrepreneur, and investor who's bridging the gap between mind-bending science and practical innovation.

From his work as founder of ARB Labs—leading advancements in gesture recognition and casino table security—to mentoring the next wave of MBA talent and launching initiatives in quantum tech, Dr. Bulzacki is a futurist with feet firmly planted in the real world.

The Tesla of the Water? Natasha Chawla on Electric Boat Motors | ACEL Power

Can marine electrification catch up with the automotive world?

In this episode of Ship of Fools, we chat with Natasha Chawla, VP of Sales and Marketing at ACEL Motors, about breakthrough electric propulsion technology transforming marine capabilities.

Think Tesla-level performance on the water.

ACEL Power is delivering this with a modular battery system designed for the diverse needs of marine vessels, offering tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

John Cody: The Writer Behind “Happy Forever” – Mark Volman & The Turtles

In this episode of the Ship of Fools Podcast, host Steven Malkowich sits down with Vancouver-based musician and writer John Cody to explore his pivotal role in the creation of “Happy Forever,  My Musical Adventures with the Turtles, Frank Zappa, T.Rex, Flo & Eddie, and more" and the definitive portrait of Mark Volman—aka Flo of The Turtles, who appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show show twice.

Home Sweet Home | Jacob Soukoreff

This week, Steven Malkowich sits down with Jacob Soukoreff — Red Seal carpenter and principal of Westmont Projects — to talk about why building a home has become such a bureaucratic, expensive, and often soul-crushing journey.

The Professor, Dr. Aaron Hoffman

What happens when you combine a sharp political mind, decades of research on terrorism and media, and a willingness to question the narratives we’ve grown comfortable with? You get this episode.

Read Aaron’s latest book for free:

The Terrorism News Beat – University of Michigan Press

Also from Ship of Fools Media: check out our golf show, Steve Tees Off Podcast — where Canadian golf meets real conversation.