

The Decibel
The Globe and Mail
Context is everything. Join us Monday to Friday for a Canadian daily news podcast from The Globe and Mail. Explore a story shaping our world, in conversation with reporters, experts, and the people at the centre of the news.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 24, 2024 • 22min
The paradox – and potential – of Kamala Harris’ campaign
Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, is analyzed for her suitability in challenging Trump. The podcast explores her rise after Biden's endorsement, potential VP picks, stance on migration, policy strengths, and societal perceptions.

Jul 23, 2024 • 22min
The Paris Olympics might be exactly what we need right now
Sports journalist Cathal Kelly discusses the significance of the upcoming Paris Olympics as a unifying global event amidst conflict. Exploring the transformative power of the Olympics for unity and peace, highlighting Canada's potential for success and cultural heroes. Reflecting on past incidents and political statements at the Games, and the addition of breakdancing in Paris with high hopes for a memorable event.

Jul 22, 2024 • 19min
How Biden’s exit fits into American political history
David Shribman discusses Biden's historic exit, opening up the field for a new Democratic candidate. The podcast explores party unity challenges, the significance of a vice-presidential pick, Biden endorsing Kamala Harris, and the implications for American democracy.

Jul 19, 2024 • 23min
Why discount airlines keep going bust in Canada
Guest Eric Atkins, The Globe's transportation reporter, discusses the challenges faced by discount airlines in Canada, focusing on the recent closure of Lynx Air. Topics include financial struggles, customer refunds, competition with established carriers, and regulatory hurdles in the Canadian aviation market.

7 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 20min
The sorry state of Canada’s water pipes
Globe reporters Tu Thanh Ha and Oliver Moore discuss the sorry state of Canada's water pipes, highlighting the challenges faced by major Canadian cities in maintaining reliable drinking water infrastructure. They address issues such as aging pipes, financial shortfalls, and the impact on clean water supply. The podcast delves into the need for increased investment in critical infrastructure to ensure the long-term sustainability of Canadian cities.

Jul 17, 2024 • 23min
The Canadian accused of building a digital den for drug dealers
Unassuming tech nerd Paul Krusky, accused of aiding Europe's drug dealers through EncroChat. Globe reporters delve into privacy vs law enforcement debate, EncroChat's role in criminal arrests, Paul Krusky's mysterious past, and the ethical dilemmas of digital privacy.

Jul 16, 2024 • 20min
What’s next for Republicans after the attack on Trump
Adrian Morrow, The Globe’s U.S. correspondent, discusses the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention. Topics include security measures, potential speakers, navigating partisanship, and analysis of the current election season.

Jul 15, 2024 • 24min
Five ways that Canada’s housing market is broken
Explore the broken housing market in Canada with reporters discussing high prices, low vacancy rates, and rising rental costs. Dive into examples from smaller cities, Toronto's vacant Giraffe building, challenges for students at the University of Guelph, and historical context of housing development in Vancouver and Toronto.

Jul 12, 2024 • 27min
How seafood from North Korean forced labour ends up in Canada
Ian Urbina, Executive editor of The Outlaw Ocean Project, discusses the investigation revealing North Korean forced labor in Chinese seafood plants supplying Canadian companies. Topics include worker exploitation, lack of oversight in supply chains, and the need for consumer awareness in purchasing seafood.

Jul 11, 2024 • 22min
What’s at stake for Canada at the NATO summit
Adrian Morrow, The Globe and Mail’s U.S. correspondent, discusses Canada's struggle to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target at the NATO summit. The podcast explores Canada's role in supporting Ukraine and the pressure to increase commitment. It also examines the implications of not meeting spending commitments and the implications for President Joe Biden's leadership.