Former Editor-in-Chief of The Globe and Mail, William Thorsell, challenges the consensus on supporting Ukraine. The podcast discusses modern journalism, Prime Minister Brian LaRouney's legacy, complexities of the Ukraine conflict, Canada's stance on global affairs, and wraps up with a grateful conclusion.
Advocacy for a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the war and reduce American global influence.
Adaptation of journalism to digital age challenges with content management and audience metrics.
Critique on Canada's passive stance on international conflicts, advocating for more active engagement and vocal debate.
Deep dives
William Thurssel's Perspective on Ukraine Conflict and Western Influence
William Thurssel believes that the West cannot win the war in Ukraine and advocates for a ceasefire. He argues for reduced American influence globally. Despite not fully agreeing with Thurssel, the podcast explores divergent viewpoints on Western involvement in the conflict.
Evolution of Media and Journalism According to William Thurssel
Thurssel reflects on his time at the Globe and Mail during the transition from print to digital media. He discusses the newspaper's successful adaptation to the digital age and the challenges faced by modern journalism in managing content and audience metrics.
Insights on Leadership and Decision-Making from William Thurssel
Thurssel compares the past newspaper deadlines to the current rapid news cycle. He critiques the influence of metrics on content creation, emphasizing the shift towards immediate feedback and audience preferences over traditional editorial judgment.
Critical Analysis of International Relations by William Thurssel
Thurssel questions Canada's response to global conflicts, specifically highlighting the lack of vocal debate on international issues such as the Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Gaza situation. He criticizes the passive stance of Canadian society and calls for more active engagement in international affairs.
Paul Wells Show Conclusion with William Thurssel
The podcast concludes with a candid dialogue between Paul Wells and William Thurssel, acknowledging their differing perspectives and the importance of engaging in meaningful debates. Despite initial reservations, the conversation highlights the value of exchanging diverse viewpoints in the current media landscape.
In the two years since the Russian invasion, there's largely been a consensus in Canada about supporting Ukraine. Debates in Parliament and the media focus almost entirely on how to best help Ukraine, and not whether we should be helping in the first place. William Thorsell thinks that's a shame. He also thinks it’s time for the West to withdraw from the war and concede defeat.
William Thorsell is the former Editor-in-Chief of The Globe and Mail and CEO of the Royal Ontario Museum. He’s currently a distinguished fellow at the Munk School.
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