Shocking Interview with BC Conservative Leader

🎧 Podcast Episode 170 with John Rustad

I had the opportunity to sit down for an extended interview with BC Conservative Leader John Rustad.

In an era where political figures are often reduced to 10-second sound bites, I believe it’s essential to give them a platform where policies can be discussed in depth, and where character and leadership can be evaluated over the course of a 40-minute—or sometimes longer—conversation.

The nuances of a person’s viewpoints and personality simply can’t be captured in a fleeting media clip. It’s in these long-form discussions that we get a more complete sense of who they really are.

I’ve always believed that, in a time of heightened political rhetoric, thoughtful, respectful discourse is the best way to reduce tensions. Heated debates and quick exchanges often leave more questions than answers, while long-form interviews allow for deeper understanding, which is critical for ensuring healthy public debate.

It’s incredibly meaningful to me that the Bigger Than Me podcast can be a platform for this kind of discussion. To provide people with the opportunity to hear leaders discuss their vision, policies, and values in a more comprehensive way feels like a true contribution to democracy.

That said, being an independent host isn’t always easy. I don’t have the same sway or brand power that major outlets like CTV or large news networks hold, and that can be frustrating at times.

I’ve had moments where people have commented things like, "Who does this guy with 3,500 subscribers think he is?" or compared me to giant YouTubers with millions of followers. It can be tough not to let those comments get under your skin, especially when you’re working hard to build credibility and trust with your audience.

But slowly and surely, the show’s credibility is growing. More and more exciting guests agree to appear on the podcast, and the audience is expanding exponentially. And at the end of the day, it’s all worth it when someone tells me that an interview I conducted helped inform their decision as a voter. I’ve heard from listeners who’ve said it’s better than sifting through multiple articles or relying on fragmented 20-second clips.

When people say they learned something new, enjoyed the conversation, or appreciated the quality of the information being discussed, it reminds me why I started this in the first place.

I’m particularly excited for people to hear my interview with John Rustad. He’s a somewhat controversial figure, and perhaps misunderstood at times. But this interview gives people a chance to meet the man behind the political headlines—the man looking to lead the government of British Columbia. We dive deep into policy, leadership, and the challenges facing the province, and I think listeners will walk away with a much better understanding of who John Rustad is and what he stands for.

It’s a privilege to be part of these important conversations, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to offer this platform where nuanced, meaningful discussions can take place. I look forward to continuing this journey and helping foster a more informed and thoughtful electorate.