Whenever the prospect of "51st state" is mentioned, many Canadians wonder what would happen if it really came to that. Others wonder what they'd do in that situation? How could they help? Could they really fight for their country?

The easiest way to be ready should anything—emergencies, natural disasters and, yes, a hostile neighbour—threaten Canadians is to join the country's reserve forces. But many Canadians don't understand that process. How big are our reserve forces? Who serves in them? What kind of commitment is it? What kind of test to you have to pass? And how might your skills apply to what they do?

A number of listeners told us they'd been wondering if they'd qualify, and how to do it. So we're speaking to Commander Paul Smith (6:49), Commanding Officer of HMCS York, which is Toronto’s Naval Reserve Division, to learn everything you need to know about the reserves.

Afterwards (23:28), we read listener emails and tease some upcoming episodes. And (32:26) we've got another song for you...

For more information about the reserves, including jobs that are currently available, you can visit https://forces.ca/en/reserve-force/.

Feedback from listeners is so, so welcome. If you have something to say, email us: hello.elbowsup@gmail.com.