Shows
Matter of 'FaxS4E1| Arad Gharagozli + Zelenskyy Visits HalifaxSeason 4 kicks off with hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston back in the studio, mixing Halifax politics, world events, and a deep dive into the region’s emerging space sector. They’re joined by Arad Gharagozli, CEO & Founder of Galaxia Mission Systems, a Halifax-based manufacturer of intelligent satellites.Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/ht...
2026-01-3039 min
Matter of 'FaxSeason 4 TrailerHalifax, Nova Scotia: beautiful, stubborn, and a little bit chaotic, just like the people who call it home. Hosted by James Collins and Alec Cranston, Matter of Fax dives into the real stories of Halifax: the good, the bad, and the badly parked.From sky‑high rents and “I’m totally moving away” promises, to the reasons we never actually leave, this show is for newcomers trying to find their footing and lifelong Haligonians who know they’re never really going anywhere.No tourism fluff. Just honest conversations, local characters, and a healthy amount of side‑eye...
2026-01-2300 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E10| Max Emerson Taylor + Behind The ScreensIn this episode, your hosts Alec Cranston and James Collins explore Nova Scotia’s wildfire ban, debunk a WWII espionage myth in the “Harbor of Lies,” and sit down with special guest Max Emerson Taylor for an honest look at influencer life, the pressures of social media, and the reality behind viral fame. Max shares how his journey led from content creation to script writing, why he ran for mayor to inspire youth voting, and how authenticity guided him to launch his creative media company, all delivered with humor, candor, and a strong sense of civic pride.Follow...
2025-11-1947 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E9| David Regan + Nanotech and the Future of Cancer TreatmentHosts James Collins and Alec Cranston return for a fresh episode packed with local stories, science, and innovation. The two sit with David Regan, CEO of Sona Nanotech. David shares the fascinating story behind Sona’s breakthrough gold nanorod technology, which enables targeted hyperthermia cancer therapy. We learn how these nanoparticles are tuned to specific wavelengths, injected into tumors, and then activated by near-infrared light to selectively destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. David explains the science, the company’s journey from rapid COVID-19 test development to cancer therapy, and the importance of Atlantic Canada’s innovation ecosystem.F...
2025-09-0943 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E8| The Welsh are taking over + Louis ThomasThis episode, with a special co-host, tuning in all the way from Norway, we discuss the Nova Scotia Power data breach, which exposed personal information of 140,000 customers, including social insurance numbers. An interview with Louis Thomas, President and CEO of Sonic Entertainment Group, discussing the logistics and challenges of organizing the Halifax Music Fest, featuring major acts like Nickelback and Lenny Kravitz. The fest aims to establish Halifax as a major live music destination!Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www...
2025-06-1855 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E7| Dr. Courtney Sherlock + Halifax TidesAlec Cranston and James Collins are back this time with Dr. Courtney Sherlock, co-founder and CEO of Halifax Tides FC, a new professional women's soccer team! Dr. Sherlock shares her journey, the team's composition, and community engagement plans, including an academy program to foster local talent. They also discuss the challenges faced, such as kit supply issues, and the importance of community involvement and partnerships. Inspired by Ontario's recent policy change, the two also debate on potentially selling alcohol in Nova Scotia corner stores as well as the potential benefits for local craft brewers.Follow Matter...
2025-05-1435 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E6| Halifax Explosion + Steve ProctorIn this episode, Alec and James discuss the transition from toll to toll-free bridges in Halifax with Steven Proctor, Communications Manager for Halifax Harbor Bridges. The McDonald Bridge toll plaza was demolished on March 17, 2023, and the Mackay Bridge followed suit. The removal impacted the budget, with the province allocating $85 million for maintenance. The conversation also touches on the history and cultural significance of the bridges, the "Big Lift" project, and the potential for a new bridge. Your hosts also dive into your favourite segmentsHalifax Obscurities: A bizarre roundabout incident featuring a man sitting on top of a...
2025-04-3042 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E5| Sunglass Hut Heist + Trent McClellanIn episode five of Matter of Fax, hosts Alec Cranston and James Collins discuss their hiatus and upcoming guests! They humorously recount a local robbery attempt at a Sunglass Hut, highlighting the robber's poor planning. James reveals a surprising connection between Bill Clinton and a local Bedford resident. Lastly, an exclusive interview with Trent McClellan covering his comedy origins in Newfoundland, working on This Hour Has 22 Minutes, opening for Jerry Seinfeld and his upcoming comedy special "Worry Muffins."Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/...
2025-04-1648 minMatter of 'FaxS3E4 | The Wedding SpecialYour host Alec Cranston is hitched! Join them on this special episode as Alec and James invite their wives Jen and Jenna to chat about their special day. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/teamcollinsns/Follow Alec: https://www.instagram.com/aleccranston9/Follow the Reddit Roundup threads: https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/comments/18jd9nw/nothing_says_grand_reopening_like_discount_broth/https://www.reddit.com/r/halifax/s/btAf0ArhMh
2025-02-1241 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E3 | Happy Holidays + Paul MackinnonIn this holiday episode of the Matter of Fax podcast, hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston discuss a recent crane incident on the McDonald Bridge, the Parade of Lights in Halifax, and holiday traditions! They also interview Paul MacKinnon, CEO of the Downtown Halifax Business Commission, about the Downtown Halifax Vision for 2030, which aims to address growth and decline challenges. Paul highlights the need for improved transportation and public spaces. He also mentions the Parade of Lights, now in its 29th year, and the challenges of organizing such a large event. Connect with Paul MacKinnon: https://www.li...
2024-12-1842 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E2 | Northern Lights + SpidermanIsaac Healy, also known as Halifax's Spider-Man, joins Alec and James this episode to discuss his journey of becoming a superhero to inspire others, especially children. He has been Spider-Man since 2021, visiting the IWK Children's Hospital and the Halifax waterfront. Isaac has faced challenges, including 15 surgeries and being bullied, but finds solace in his childhood favourite character. He has multiple Spider-Man suits and engages in charity work, raising funds for the IWK and Canadian Blood Services. Isaac aims to improve his suits and potentially work at the IWK full-time. Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com...
2024-11-1341 min
Matter of 'FaxS3E1 | Bears In Dartmouth + Brandon BirdBrandon Bird, CEO of Bird Mechanical, joins us for the very first episode of Season 3! Brandon discusses his company's expansion to Nova Scotia, highlighting their $74 million project in Sydney. Brandon shares his challenges in establishing his company in Nova Scotia, including the non-resident deed transfer tax he faced. He emphasizes the beauty and business potential of Nova Scotia, expressing his desire to move there full-time. Brandon is the Chief Executive Officer of Bird Mechanical. He is the third generation to enter into the family business. Following in the previous generations’ footsteps, Brandon started his apprenticeship with the co...
2024-10-1649 minMatter of 'FaxSeason 3 TRAILERYour hosts James Collins and Alec Cranston are back with Season 3 of Matter of Fax!Lots of more fun guests, lots of more fun segments, and lots of more good times.
2024-10-0200 min
Matter of 'FaxS2E12 | The 'Exit Interview' with Mayor Mike SavageMayor of Halifax Regional Municipality. Former MP. Chair of FCM Big City Mayors Caucus, Mike Savage, joins James and Alec on this episode of Matter of Fax to share his experiences and opinions on various aspects of Halifax, including food scams, transit issues, and municipal government. The three discuss the qualities of good leadership and the energy and passion required. They also share their thoughts on the city's prioritization of pedestrians, bicycles, and cars. Mike Savage was elected Mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality for a third term on October 17, 2020. As Mayor he has followed a mandate to g...
2024-08-1548 minMatter of 'FaxS2E11 | Halifax is on the Map, with Dennis Campbell and Brian CooperIt is tourist season in Halifax! During these warmer months, Halifax is bustling with lots to offer. Join Alec Cranston and James Collins for this episode of Matter of Fax, as they dive into a discussion with guests Dennis Campbell and Brian Cooper of Ambassador Tours, about Halifax tourism. The four have an in-depth discussion about the opportunities for improving the city's traffic challenges and transportation solutions to keep the city a desired destination. They also highlight Halifax's natural beauty and cultural heritage as the keys to boosting tourism, alongside Coop's inspiring community service efforts.Dennis Campbell...
2024-07-1855 minMatter of 'FaxS2E10 | Making Hockey More Inclusive with Future of Hockey LabHow do we make hockey culture more accessible to women and non-binary players? Amy Walsh and Cailin Ahloy join James and Alec on this episode of Matter Of 'Fax to talk about some of their inclusive work with Future of Hockey Lab. They share some of their 'aha' moments in recognizing the importance of male coach allyship, as well as their experience using Women's World Juniors to promote diversity and inclusion in hockey.Amy Walsh is the CEO and co-founder of the Future of Hockey Lab (FHL), established in 2020 to innovate and transform hockey culture in partnership...
2024-06-1445 minMatter of 'FaxS2E9 | James Mullinger, Everybody!The James Mullinger joins Alec Cranston, and James Collins to discuss comedy, including the challenges of creating and performing stand-up, and the difficulties of live comedy performances. They share their experiences and perspectives on the art of comedy, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, body language, and attitude. The three highlight the lesser-known destinations and local talents in Atlantic Canada, emphasizing the need to promote and support local comedians and appreciate our region's value.James Mullinger is an award-winning writer, comedian, filmmaker and highly acclaimed inspirational and motivational speaker. He was one of the UK’s top comedians as...
2024-05-151h 01Matter of 'FaxS2E8 | Atlantic Real Estate Forum 2024 Live ShowJames and Alec are back this episode, recording live from the Atlantic Real Estate Forum 2024, at the Halifax Convention Centre! The two make an important announcement for Cushman and Wakefield Halifax, and sit down with a few exciting guests they caught at the conference; including Doug Doucet, Ben Young, and Heather Ferguson.Doug Doucet, President and Founder at Doucet Developments chats about the expansion and development of Commercial Real estate in Halifax. He speaks to his experience of researching and building an Irish pub in Cape Breton, and talks about his love for retail and desire to...
2024-03-2756 min
Matter of 'FaxS2E7 | Halifax, the Music City, with Allegra SwansonDid you know that Halifax is hosting this year's annual JUNO awards? What does this mean for Nova Scotia's Music Industry? This month on Matter of Fax, James and Alec are joined by the Executive Director, of Music Nova Scotia, Allegra Swanson. Allegra is a multi-talented arts professional, with a comprehensive knowledge of cultural media, and a passion for the music industry, with over a decade of experience in the non-profit space, and an extensive background in managing events. Allegra discusses her role in organizing the JUNO Awards, and promoting Nova Scotia's music industry. As the Chair...
2024-02-2953 min
Matter of 'FaxS2E6 | Financial Engineering with Steve MacLellanGiving thought to how to get ahead with your financial planning for 2024? Yearning to grow, and have control over your money? This month on Matter of Fax, James and Alec are joined by Financial Engineer Steve MacLellan whose lifeblood is helping established consultants make more money!Steve brings a unique perspective to the world of wealth management. As a financial engineer, and author of his book "Grow, Control and Keep Your Money," Steve is a sought after expert in finance and tax planning. What sets Steve apart in is his approach to finance is that he demystifies...
2024-01-2252 minMatter of 'FaxS2E5 | The Holiday SpecialHappy Holidays from Matter Of Fax! In this festive edition of Matter Of Fax, James Collins and Alec Cranston are joined by their partners, Jen and Jenna, to spread some holiday cheer. James, Jen, Alec and Jenna discuss an extravagant Christmas display called Santa's Lane in Colby Village, which is displaying over 100 inflatable Santas on their lawns to raise money for Feed Nova Scotia. The four talk about their individual opinions and preferences on Christmas lights, before diving into a Halifax Reddit rant about the price of candy canes.They also chat about their favourite ho...
2023-12-1859 minMatter of 'FaxS2E4 | Entertainment Law and Management with Matthew GormanHow does a lawyer end up starting his own music management company? This month on Matter of Fax, James and Alec are joined by entertainment lawyer Matthew Gorman. Matthew Gorman is Counsel in Cox & Palmer’s Halifax office, with extensive experience within the entertainment, intellectual property, and digital rights space, where he advises performers, songwriters, producers, managers, record labels, and more. Matthew is an elected member of Music Nova Scotia’s Board of Directors, a frequent writer, lecturer and speaker on music-related legal issues at conferences and events all over the country, and is a member of the I...
2023-11-271h 01Matter of 'FaxS2E3 | Transforming Downtown: The Cogswell Redevelopment Project"This is meant to be a very vibrant new neighbourhood where people can come visit, live, work and play." - Donna DavisThe Cogswell Interchange, a fixture since the 1960s, has seen considerable transformations in the years since its inception. Instead of solely prioritizing automobiles and highways, the city is now committed to turning this area into a sustainable and thriving community while maintaining its rich history. The Cogswell Redevelopment Project is currently in progress, encompassing extensive blueprints for public spaces, parks, robust active transportation infrastructure, and the integration of urban agriculture. How will this vision...
2023-10-181h 01Matter of 'FaxS2E2 | More Than A Flashlight: Disaster Preparedness with Dr. Jeff Donaldson"Preparedness isn't a bag by your front door, preparedness is a way of life." In this episode, Alec and James kick things off by discussing Nova Scotia's insane summer weather of wildfires and flash floods, and a tragic Halifax Reddit post involving a lost birthday cake.Alec and James are then joined by special guest Dr. Jeff Donaldson. Jeff is a Veteran, Emergency Preparedness Guru, Researcher, Author, and Adjunct Professor. He is the host of the Inside My Canoehead podcast, which is coming up on it's 200th episode. He also happens to be Alec's uncle...
2023-09-1351 minMatter of 'FaxSeason 2 Trailer Welcome to Season 2 of Matter Of 'Fax. Every month, Alec Cranston and James Collins will discuss the unsung Halifax heroes and happenings you might not have heard of, that keep the city worrying and spinning and being wonderful. Alec and James will chat with even more interesting guests, diving into the most innovative, trailblazing, and intriguing stories the city of Halifax has to offer. Plus, you'll get a taste of Halifax absurdity in Alec and James' regular segments, "Insane In The Crane" and "Reddit Roundup".Follow Matter Of 'Fax: https://www.instagram.com/matteroffaxpodcast/
2023-09-1102 minMatter of 'FaxS2E1 | John WedderburnIn episode 13 of Matter of ‘Fax, and the first episode of Season 2, Alec and James brought in special guest John Wedderburn, Senior Advisor of HRM’s Communications and External Relations to discuss and explore the wonderful organizations and initiatives supporting the vibrant African Nova Scotia culture, entrepreneurship, and social advancement. In usual fashion, the fellas delved into some of the hottest topics around Nova Scotia, including the bizarre “Baby Grand” contest that radio station Q104 created, and the earth-shattering taboo of breaking the “pay it forward” chain. Listen to this and even more thought-provoking content during the Season 2 ope...
2023-06-191h 03Matter of 'FaxEpisode 12: Premier Tim HoustonSeason Finale! Alec & James close out the inaugural season of Matter of ‘Fax with a bang, as they were pleased to welcome the Honourable Premier of Nova Scotia – Mr. Tim Houston. The guys take a dive into what lead the Premier to where he is today, some of his favorite things to do in Nova Scotia & why our province is such a great place to live in. Alec & James also tackled a recent local TikTok ban, along with the closing of Dartmouth’s beloved Steak & Stein – with a little added seasoning to that story. In true MOF fashion, the guys end...
2023-05-151h 05Matter of 'FaxEpisode 11: Exploring Nova Scotia’s CharmIn episode 11 of Matter of 'Fax, Alec and James were thrilled to have Sean Meister join them as their guest. Sean provided a compelling case for why Nova Scotia is unequivocally the best place to live on the planet and also introduced his latest project, Global Bluenosers - a digital community that aims to connect Nova Scotians around the world. During the course of the episode, Alec and James explored a range of fascinating topics. They started by discussing the unfortunate incident of a Bedford church falling victim to mass fraud. Next, they tackled the recent blunder...
2023-03-311h 26Matter of 'FaxEpisode 10: Tom MurphyIn episode 10 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James welcomed the anchor for CBC Nova Scotia News, Tom Murphy to the podcast, where they jumped into a great discussion on the evolution of journalism, and where Atlantic Canada falls on the national news agenda. The fellas then shifted their attention to the astronomical resale prices for tickets at the most recent World Junior Championship hosted in Halifax and finally concluded with a conversation about the long and heated debate on the merging privilege of Halifax buses.
2023-02-151h 03Matter of 'FaxEpisode 9: Second ChristmasIn episode 9 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James brought on their much better halves Jenna & Jen, where wild relationship stories were shared, drinking games were played, and Alec learned how to speak proper English for once. To keep things serious, the fellas started a thoughtful and deep discussion of how to improve Nova Scotia. Luckily this was all done in the Christmas spirit, despite a mid-January release.
2023-01-1156 minMatter of 'FaxEpisode 8: The USS CranstonIn episode 8 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James had none other than the “Red Head Realtor” aka Jonathan Lander on the podcast to discuss the ins and outs of the residential real estate market, along with where we might be headed, and how things have changed over the past couple years. The fellas also discussed the USS Gerald Ford, a behemoth aircraft carrier that docked within the Halifax Harbour, along with the new Timberlea location of North Brewing. Finally, they wrapped everything up with a pretty little bow, as they scoured the internet for wild holiday shopping experiences.
2022-12-081h 10Matter of 'FaxEpisode 7: Alec Cranium & James CoffinsIn episode 7 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James were joined by special guest Mr. Adams, an Interpretation supervisor with the Halifax Citadel Society to discuss the unexplained and supernatural events that have occurred within the walls of the Halifax Citadel. Then, in the spirit of All Hallows Eve, a second and uninvited guest joined the recording to recount their chilling commercial real estate tale – very very spooky.
2022-11-031h 12Matter of 'FaxEpisode 6: Alec & James ForeverIn episode 6 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James kept each other company, with a discussion on Hurricane Fiona, the aftermath of the storm, and the effects it had on not only Nova Scotia, but coastal Atlantic Provinces. A new business was in the spotlight this month as James shared an interesting fast-food concept that will be coming to the Bedford area. Then as always, Alec mispronounced multiple words, and decide to make a few up again – so Shakespearean of him.
2022-10-141h 05Matter of 'FaxEpisode 5: Evolution of HalifaxIn episode 5 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James were joined by the one and only, Bill MacAvoy, Managing Director of Cushman & Wakefield Atlantic, to discuss a little history of Halifax and the evolution of the city to what it is now, and what it will be in the future. Shenanigans ensued, as Alec decided to make up words, while James decided to be a robot for the day.
2022-09-221h 09Matter of 'FaxEpisode 4: The Gruntled BluenoseIn episode 4 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James had Sarah Rumley, Executive Director of Cruise Atlantic Canada, and Jo-Anne McLean HIAA’s (Halifax International Airport Authority) Director of Air Service and Airport Experience in the studio to discuss the effects the flight and cruise industries have had on Halifax’s tourism, along with the future of both industries within Nova Scotia. Then, unfortunately, the fellas say goodbye to a certain drive-in theatre, while Alec continues to admire the Halifax harbour and its many ships, including submarines, cargo, and the Bluenose?
2022-08-141h 17Matter of 'FaxEpisode 3: Screen Nova ScotiaIn episode 3 of Matter Of ‘Fax, Alec & James sat down with Laura Mackenzie, the Executive Director of Screen Nova Scotia, to talk about funding, the future of film in Nova Scotia, and what makes the province an ideal location for the industry. Then things got off the rails as the two of them started to discuss drive-ins and little rodents on the loose in Dartmouth.
2022-07-121h 06Matter of 'FaxEpisode 2: World JuniorsIn episode 2 of Matter Of ‘Fax, the guys sit down with Amy Walsh, Executive Director of Hockey NS, and Ross Jefferson, President & CEO of Discover Halifax, to discuss the impact of Halifax being awarded joint hosting duties of the 2023 World Junior Hockey Championships. Then, as per usual, James got really British, and…. wait…. Is something burning? Show Notes: Hockey Nova Scotia - https://hockeynovascotia.ca Discover Halifax - https://discoverhalifaxns.com British Pride Bakery - https://www.britishpridebakery.com Reddit Post: https://bit.ly/3mkZ6Po
2022-06-0755 minMatter of 'FaxEpisode 1: Hannah KovacsIn the inaugural episode of Matter Of ‘Fax, the guys discussed the inner workings of running a business with Hannah Kovacs of Move East Studios, stories that reach crane-level insanity, and brought the spotlight to a fresh local business.
2022-05-0253 minMatter of 'FaxIntroduction to Matter of 'FaxTake a deep dive with James Collins and Alec Cranston as they bring to light the most innovative, trailblazing, and intriguing stories the city of Halifax has to offer.
2022-04-2901 min