Join us for a coffee and chat with Erika Barootes, a dynamic force in Alberta, serving as Co-Host of The Discourse Podcast, Department Head & Director of External Relations at MaKami College, and an Alberta Senator in Waiting!
Erika, a Regina native, initially pursued sciences at the University of Calgary before shifting to a Political Science degree. Dispelling the myth that a poli-sci degree is a direct ticket to politics, she reveals how her early involvement as a youth representative on local constituency boards laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of the political landscape.
Though she initially wanted politics to remain a passion rather than a career, Erika was drawn in during Gary Mar's 2011 PC Leadership campaign, quickly rising from running his Calgary office to traveling as his Executive Assistant. Her career continued through various political roles in Edmonton, including an impactful run for President of the UCP and later putting herself forward for the Senate, advocating for Alberta and new programs for veterans.
Beyond the political arena, Erika is an avid runner and cherishes time with her family. She's also the engaging Co-Host of The Discourse Podcast, where she and Cheryl Oates, from opposing political viewpoints, foster respectful debate. What started as TV and radio segments grew into a popular podcast, drawing significant media attention.
Erika's commitment to practical political education led her to create and launch the Applied Politics and Public Affairs 2-year diploma program. This hyper-partisan online pilot program, which highlights what she wished her own degree covered, provides a comprehensive introduction to politics, public affairs, and advocacy, and has garnered immense interest across Canada.
Get ready to hear Erika's insightful perspective on navigating the world of politics, the power of constructive discourse, and her dedication to practical education for the next generation of leaders.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments and leave us a review!
Follow the ABA on our social medias
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abacoffeeintheparkpodcast/
ABA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/achesonbusiness/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@achesonbusinessassociation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/achesonbusiness
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acheson-business-association/
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.