468. Canada Can’t Defend Itself | J.O. Michel Maisonneuve, Barbara Maisonneuve, and Mark Norman

At a Glance

• Morale Issues in the Military - “morale is shot. One of the reasons is because they see our senior leaders serving senior leaders, not fighting back against this process that the government is forcing on the military.” This highlights the significant impact of leadership on morale within the military.

• Lack of Public Support - “They’re not seeing public support. They’re not seeing overt signals from the political leadership that what they do actually matters.” This emphasizes the importance of public recognition and support for military personnel.

• Importance of Service - “the fact that you didn’t see any testimony, let’s say to those virtues in that speech is an indication of the temperament of the person and the political party that offered those.” This points out the lack of emphasis on service and conscientiousness in political speeches.

• Leadership Challenges - “So she has a huge challenge in front of her, you know, and it’s going to be interesting to see what happens.” Discusses the challenges faced by General Karegnia in leading the Armed Forces.

• Impact of DEI Initiatives - “So they created a command and I think wasn’t the budget 500 million dollars over five like you know we could have done with that money.” Raises questions about the effectiveness and impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in the military.

• Alcohol and Misconduct - “if there was no drunk people, there would be virtually no sexual assault.” Discusses the role of alcohol in contributing to misconduct and the need for cultural changes in the military.

What to Do

• Seek justice if needed - It is important to seek justice if you have experienced any form of harassment or misconduct. This can help in addressing the issue and preventing it from happening to others.

• Utilize available resources for support - There are various avenues for seeking help and support, such as peers, medical staff, chaplains, and counselors. Utilizing these resources can provide assistance and guidance in difficult situations.

• Address inappropriate behavior directly - Addressing inappropriate behavior directly can help in setting boundaries and creating a respectful environment. Taking action against misconduct can lead to positive changes in behavior.

• Promote a culture of respect and inclusivity - Creating a culture of respect and inclusivity can help in preventing harassment and misconduct. By promoting mutual respect and understanding, individuals can feel safe and valued in their environment.

What to Get

-The Making of a Pastor/Chaplain: Faith Development as Revealed Through the Author’s Own Story and Journey of Faith by Barbara Maisonneuve - Amazon

Summary

In this podcast episode, the conversation revolves around the state of the military in Canada, particularly focusing on issues such as morale, leadership, and the challenges faced by the armed forces. The speakers discuss the importance of leadership in the military and how the lack of public support and recognition for service can impact morale among military personnel. They also touch upon the need for the government to prioritize funding for the military and improve overall morale within the armed forces.

One of the key points raised is the impact of cultural changes within the military, including addressing issues of sexual misconduct and alcohol-fueled incidents. The speakers emphasize the need for a comparative analysis to determine the extent of these problems within the armed forces and highlight the importance of addressing them effectively. They also discuss the role of alcohol in military culture and how it has evolved over time, with a focus on promoting a healthier and more responsible approach to alcohol consumption.

Additionally, the conversation delves into the opportunities available for individuals considering a career in the military, highlighting the benefits of joining as an officer or pursuing a trade within the armed forces. The speakers emphasize the value of military service, the diverse career paths available, and the potential for personal growth and development through military training and experience. Overall, the episode sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by the Canadian military while also highlighting the opportunities and rewards that come with serving in the armed forces.