Dialogue Over Division

008: A Voice for Change: MLA Eric Bouchard's Journey from Business to Politics

Dialogue Over Division

Show Notes

Join us for an engaging new episode of "Dialogue over Division" with Eric Bouchard, MLA for Calgary-Lougheed. Eric shares his journey from a business owner who trusted the government to a resolute political representative, driven by the abrupt shutdown of his business and its impact on him, his family, and his business.

In this podcast episode, Eric delves into the importance of civic involvement, highlighting its influence on personal and business affairs. He discusses the lack of transparency in media, another driving force behind his decision to run for elected office and to become a voice for change. Overcoming numerous challenges, he secured a surprising victory in Premier Kenney's former constituency. Together, we explore the hurdles he faced, lessons learned, and the pivotal role of communication in times of division.

Eric emphasizes the significance of embracing diverse opinions and the value of respectful disagreement as a means to finding common ground and a course for a more united society. Eric encourages us to step outside our comfort zones and engage in constructive conversations. Be inspired by Eric's story, and discover how one person's actions can have a lasting impact on their community.

This podcast series is your guide to becoming a more informed and engaged citizen. It's a call to action for you to take an active role in maintaining the vitality of our democracy.

Connect with Eva Chipiuk: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠ X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

Eva Chipiuk is not your typical lawyer. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Science, a Law Degree and a Masters of Law in Alternative Dispute Resolution. Eva has made a career representing David in the fight against Goliath. She has represented clients against large energy companies and the government. Her unique education and work experience has empowered her to represent clients and protect their rights in a unique and a more holistic way.

Eva believes that in order for Canadians to be familiar with their legal rights and political systems, they must become active members in the democratic process. On this podcast, “Dialogue Over Division”, the goal is to empower Canadians to learn and engage in meaningful conversations about democracy and how we can come together as a nation to make a difference.

Together we can work towards a brighter and more united Canada.

More from Dialogue Over Division

Dec 14, 2025

In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we continue our series on the national interests identified by former Lieutenant Colonel David Redman in his 25-year vision for the country. The sixth national interest, Personal and Community Wellbeing, is foundational to the strength and resilience of our nation. Each national interest matters on its own, but they are deeply interconnected. Without healthy individuals and strong communities, our ability to advance in other areas of national interest is weakened.

Nov 30, 2025

In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we continue our series on the national interests identified by former Lieutenant Colonel David Redman in his 25-year vision for the country. The fifth national interest, Economic Prosperity and Growth, is the engine that sustains our national security, unity, and overall wellbeing. Each national interest is important on its own, but they are deeply interconnected. Without a strong and resilient economy, Canada’s ability to achieve progress in other areas is greatly diminished.

Nov 2, 2025

In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we continue our series on the national interests identified by former Lieutenant Colonel David Redman in his 25-year vision for the country. The fourth national interest, Rights and Freedoms, is essential to preserving the democratic foundation of Canada. Each national interest stands on its own, but they are deeply connected, and without robust protections for our rights, the stability and unity of the nation are at risk.

Oct 5, 2025

In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we continue our series on the national interests identified by former Lieutenant Colonel David Redman in his 25-year vision for the country. The third national interest, Good Governance, is vital to ensuring that Canada’s institutions serve the people with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Each national interest is important on its own, but they are deeply interconnected. Without good governance, our ability to protect and advance the others is diminished.

Sep 8, 2025

National Interest 2 - National Security In this episode of Dialogue Over Division, we continue our series on the national interests identified by former Lieutenant Colonel David Redman in his 25-year vision for the country. The second national interest, national security, is essential to safeguarding everything we value as a nation. Each national interest is vital on its own, but they are deeply intertwined, and without security, the stability and freedoms that define Canada cannot be sustained.Colonel Redman explains that national security is far more than a military matter, it is an interconnected system that includes intelligence services, border control, the judicial system, and emergency management. Each element plays a role in protecting Canadians from threats, both foreign and domestic. But Redman warns that Canada’s current security framework faces systemic challenges, from insufficient long-term planning to weaknesses in coordination and execution.We examine what it means to have a truly secure nation in today’s rapidly changing world. David stresses the importance of developing and maintaining a cohesive, forward-looking security strategy—one that anticipates emerging threats, leverages strong alliances, and is rooted in transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. Without this, Canada risks being reactive instead of prepared.Our conversation also explores how shifting geopolitical dynamics, technological advances, and evolving global risks demand that Canada adapt. Security, David emphasizes, is not just the responsibility of governments it is a shared responsibility, requiring an informed and engaged public.Join us as we unpack the meaning of national security in a modern, interconnected world, and why a clear, 25-year vision is critical to protecting Canada’s future.Because if we don’t understand how to secure our nation, how can we expect it to endure?To explore these ideas further, read the full paper by Lieutenant Colonel David Redman, Canada 2024: A Confident Resilient Nation or a Fearful Fractured Country, available here: https://fcpp.org/2024/03/21/policy-series-canada-2024-a-confident-resilient-nation-or-a-fearful-fractured-country/Connect with Eva Chipiuk:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chipiuk.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X/Rumble/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@echipiuk⁠⁠⁠

See all episodes →