The Decibel

Nathan VanderKlippe, an international correspondent for The Globe and Mail, provides insight from the recent G7 summit in Kananaskis. The discussion reveals how escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, influenced the summit's dynamic. Trump’s unexpected departure shifted focus away from key issues, including the war in Ukraine. VanderKlippe also emphasizes Canada’s efforts to build stronger ties with India and Europe amid rising global challenges. Overall, he evaluates what a successful summit might mean without Trump’s presence.

Mark MacKinnon, Senior International Correspondent for The Globe and Mail, sheds light on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses the intense military exchanges and the humanitarian crisis resulting from Israel's airstrikes on Iranian cities. MacKinnon highlights Iran's significant security challenges and the effectiveness of their missile attacks on Israeli targets. The episode also dives into the United States' complex role in navigating nuclear negotiations amid rising tensions, providing insights into both nations' public sentiments and military readiness.

Meera Raman, a retirement and financial reporter for The Globe and Mail, dives into the struggles of recent graduates in Canada as they face an alarming 11.2% unemployment rate. She discusses the long-term impact of entering a weak job market, including potential setbacks in career momentum and financial stability. Meera also shares valuable financial strategies, urging graduates to prioritize savings and avoid high-interest debt while navigating the competitive landscape filled with challenges like unpaid internships.

Kathryn Blaze Baum, an investigative reporter at The Globe and Mail, uncovers the dark world of hacked Meta accounts. She reveals how desperate users turn to brokers, paying hefty fees for expedited recovery, while Meta's customer support often falls short. The conversation dives into the troubling collusion between these brokers and Meta employees, as well as how individuals suffer after account losses. Kathryn also discusses the company's efforts to crack down on these practices and the broader implications for user security on social media.

David Eberhardt, spokesperson for the Association of Landlords of Berlin and Brandenburg, delves into Berlin's bold approach to its housing crisis. He discusses the landmark referendum for expropriating apartments from mega landlords and its implications. Eberhardt weighs the radical nature of this solution against legal and financial concerns. The conversation also touches on the contrast between Berlin's policies and Canada's housing struggles, exploring whether similar actions could alleviate pressure in Canadian cities.

Sara Mojtehedzadeh, an investigative reporter at The Globe specializing in immigration and refugee issues, breaks down the controversial Strong Borders Act. She discusses its proposed powers for law enforcement and the new one-year deadline for refugee claims. Sara raises critical concerns about the impact on asylum seekers, including risks to fair hearings and the potential for exploitation. The conversation explores the broader implications of these changes on Canada's immigration landscape and the future of refugee protections.

Mark MacKinnon, a senior international correspondent for The Globe and Mail, delves into the harrowing plight of Ukrainian children missing due to the ongoing conflict. He discusses the collaborative efforts of Save Ukraine and Hala Systems, which, backed by Canada, are using advanced technology to locate and map facilities where children are held. The conversation highlights shocking statistics, including 20,000 missing children and the concerning indoctrination tactics they face. MacKinnon offers insight into the complex humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international support to reunite these children with their families.

Rachel Giese, author of 'Boys: What It Means to Become a Man' and deputy national editor at The Globe and Mail, dives into the critical topics surrounding the Hockey Canada trial. She discusses how this case reflects our cultural understanding of consent and masculinity. Giese emphasizes the need for more meaningful conversations with boys about vulnerability and emotional health. She challenges the oversimplified views of consent and advocates for deeper discussions on sexual encounters, highlighting the importance of role models in shaping healthy masculinity.

Jennifer Yang, a health sciences reporter for The Globe, delves into the remarkable story of Maryam Fatima, who was born with hemimegalencephaly. Yang shares insights from medical experts who performed a groundbreaking surgery to disconnect part of Maryam's brain in a life-saving effort. The podcast reveals the emotional journey of Maryam's family, their immigration from India to Canada, and the innovative treatments they pursued. Listeners are taken through the challenges of her early battles with severe seizures and her inspiring path to recovery.

Jason Kirby, a staff reporter at The Globe’s Report on Business, delves into the significant increase in U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs. He discusses the dramatic implications for Canadian producers, with one stating that their American business has become ‘unviable.’ Kirby also examines the potential ripple effects on consumer prices and jobs, alongside the strategic motivations behind Trump's decisions. Additionally, he highlights Canada’s retaliatory measures and the brewing tensions that could escalate into trade wars.