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Tony Clement: From Cabinet Minister to Change Agent
The Joy of Living Podcast with Barry Shore
In this episode of The Joy of Living Podcast, Barry Shore is joined by the Honorable Tony Clement, former member of the Canadian Parliament and cabinet minister, as they dive into a conversation about transformation, faith, and purpose. Tony shares his journey of leaving politics to focus on mental wellness, entrepreneurship, and how he’s now embracing new roles as a change agent.
Together, they explore the power of focusing on the good in life, the importance of subtle transformations, and the resilience required to overcome challenges. They also discuss the evolving political and economic landscape of Canada and how personal growth and faith have shaped Tony’s path forward. This episode is a powerful reminder that transformation isn’t about drastic changes, but about shifting your mindset and taking consistent steps toward a better, more purposeful life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will motivate you to embrace your own journey of self-improvement and make a difference in the world.
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Show Notes:
[12:46] Canada’s Economic Struggles and the Growing Desire for Change
- Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, took a tough stance by freezing bank accounts during the trucker protests, which many believe went against civil liberties.
- There’s a growing frustration with the political elite in Canada, with people questioning whether the government truly understands or addresses the country’s issues.
- Canadians, often proud of their differences from the United States, are realizing that economic equality between the two countries has significantly decreased.
- Historically, Canada’s GDP per capita was close to that of the U.S., but now there’s a noticeable gap with Canadians earning 30-40% less.
- Canadians are feeling the pinch, especially in major cities like Toronto, where housing prices have skyrocketed, making homeownership almost impossible for younger generations.
- There’s a rising sense of dissatisfaction with the lack of progress, including increasing crime rates in urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver.
- The Canadian dream seems to be slipping away, with younger generations losing confidence in their ability to achieve financial success or stability.
- Despite the challenges, there’s hope in Canada’s resilience, with many believing that positive change is possible, as evidenced by other countries like Argentina overcoming deep economic crises.
[21:00 ] The Shift in Media and Political Landscape in Canada
- Skin health has been overlooked, prompting the creation of Truth Treatments, offering essential nutrients like vitamins and amino acids.
- Business leaders know that a compelling vision, told through stories, can turn the impossible into reality.
- After years in advertising, valuable insights have been gained on how to inspire and move people through powerful storytelling.
- Talk radio is a powerful force in Canada, particularly in Western Canada and Quebec, with a populist conservative message.
- Podcasting is rapidly growing in Canada as an alternative to broken legacy media, offering more dynamic and engaging content.
- The Canadian government has provided bailouts to legacy media, which has led to a decline in trust in traditional news sources.
- Non-legacy media, like podcasts and YouTube, have flourished as people seek alternative news free from governmental control and elite influence.
[31:55] Canada’s Strength, Nuclear Energy, and Political Change
- Canadians take pride in their country and are positioning themselves as key partners to the U.S., particularly in areas like critical minerals, energy, and nuclear power.
- Small Nuclear Reactors (SNRs) offer a promising solution for Canada’s energy needs, with the potential to power the country while supporting emerging industries like AI.
- Nuclear energy could help Canada extract oil and gas in a carbon-neutral way, providing a sustainable path forward for energy production.
- Despite challenges, Canada remains the U.S.’s natural partner in military, diplomatic, and economic relations, though the current government isn’t fully capitalizing on these opportunities.
- The rise of crime and chaos, particularly in cities like Toronto, is becoming a major issue, with organized gangs contributing to increasing rates of theft and violence.
- The country’s response to homelessness and addiction issues, including the legalization of safe injection sites, has sparked controversy and led to worsened outcomes for many.
- Conservative leader Pierre Polyev has vowed to implement better solutions for addiction and mental wellness, rejecting the current approach and pushing for real change.
- The drive for change is powerful in Canada, as people grow increasingly dissatisfied with the status quo and seek a new direction.
[42:31] Tony Clement’s Transition to Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth
- Tony Clement, former member of the Canadian Parliament and cabinet, is now deeply involved in Canada’s change revolution and is optimistic about the country’s future alongside the U.S.
- After leaving politics in 2019, Tony took time to focus on his mental wellness, supported by his Christian faith, and embarked on a new life direction.
- Reflecting on his political career, Tony realized he was an entrepreneur and change agent who sought to create opportunities and drive positive change within his ministries.
- Transitioning from politics, Tony chose not to return to a law firm or bank, instead diving into startups, embracing a hands-on approach and collaborating with friends in the business world.
- As a digital nomad, Tony works with startups and advisory roles, traveling across the country and internationally, living a fulfilling and dynamic life.
- Tony is also involved in media, co-hosting a podcast and a television show called Boom and Bust, which covers topics like economics, finance, and national security.
[51:45 ] Embracing Transformation and Moving Forward
- The key to living a fulfilling life is focusing on the good things happening around you, rather than getting caught up in negativity. This mindset is essential for personal growth and healing.
- The podcast encourages transformation—not through radical change, but through subtle shifts, where anger and resentment are replaced with love, respect, and gratitude.
- Transformation can be achieved by gently pushing aside negative emotions and replacing them with positivity, which allows for a deeper sense of peace and wellness.
- As Tony reflects on his life, he emphasizes the importance of faith in guiding us toward our purpose and helping us overcome challenges. This faith is crucial in finding meaning and direction.
- Tony’s personal story illustrates the power of resilience, showing that no matter the setbacks, the key is to pick yourself up, dust off, and keep moving forward toward your goals.
- Ultimately, the message is one of hope and transformation: life is about change, growth, and the willingness to make a difference by embracing your purpose.
Insider Tips:
Nicole Iny is the Executive Director of Grants and Consumer Education at FAIR Health, a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. FAIR Health possesses the nation’s largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 47 billion claim records. It is dedicated to bringing transparency and integrity to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support.
Topics:
- What is FAIR Health?
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About Tony Clement
Tony Peter Clement PC (né Payani; born January 27, 1961) is a Canadian former politician in the federal and Ontario governments. He was Member of Parliamentfor Parry Sound-Muskoka and a federal cabinet minister in the Conservative Partyunder prime minister Stephen Harper.[2] Before entering federal politics, Clement served as an Ontario Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton South then Brampton West—Mississauga and a cabinet minister in the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, including as Minister of Health and Long-Term Careunder premiers Mike Harris and Ernie Eves.