In a world of tariffs, geopolitical shocks, and broken supply chains, how do countries and companies stay resilient? In this episode, we go north of the border to unpack how Canada is rethinking trade, policy, and partnerships to future‑proof its economy-and what that means for your business.
In this episode, Philip and Patrick Kennedy discuss:
- Canada–U.S. supply chains and nitrogen fertilizer fundamentals
- Trade uncertainty, tariffs, and the USMCA review
- How Canada’s political and policy-making system actually works
- The role of Earnscliff in public affairs and cross-border business strategy
- Stress, resilience, and the power of relationships and “showing up”
Lightbulb Moments:
- Supply chains that once felt invisible and automatic are now under intense scrutiny, forcing governments and companies to think seriously about resilience and domestic capacity.
- Businesses can handle change far better than they can handle unpredictability; clear rules and frameworks matter more than whether every outcome is ideal.
- Diversifying trade and supply routes is not about abandoning existing partners, but about adding options so a system can better withstand shocks.
- Policy in Canada is shaped through a highly consultative, consensus-oriented process, creating many touchpoints for stakeholders to engage before laws are finalized.
- In an age of social media noise and political volatility, investing in real relationships, showing up in person, and engaging directly in the process is a critical strategic advantage.
“Making the effort to show up gives you skin in the game and a seat at the table” – Patrick Kennedy
Patrick advises Canadian and international organizations across sectors like tech, defense, finance, and health on public policy, government relations, and strategic stakeholder engagement. Drawing on leadership experience across government, Parliament, industry, and consulting-including as Past President of the Government Relations Institute of Canada-he helps executive teams navigate complex regulatory landscapes, align business goals with policy priorities, and build credible, long-term advocacy strategies. Patrick holds an M.Sc. in Public Policy from the London School of Economics as a Chevening Scholar and an Honours B.A. from Queen’s University.
Connect with Patrick Kennedy:
Website: https://earnscliffe.ca/people/patrick-kennedy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-kennedy-1257841a/
Connect with Philip:
Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/
Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw
https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3
Podcast Production by Turnkey Podcast. Thinking of starting a podcast? Get more info at https://turnkeypodcast.com/ or reach out to Doug Sandler directly at Doug@TurnkeyPodcast.com or call 410-340-6861.
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