Hub Podcasts
Hub Media Canada
Welcome to Hub Podcasts, the audio version of the big ideas and in-depth conversations found at TheHub.ca, Canada’s fastest growing digital news outlet with half a million people engaging weekly with our content.
Hub Dialogues features The Hub's editor-at-large Sean Speer and managing editor Harrison Lowman engaged in longform conversations with leading thinkers on the big issues and ideas shaping the public conversation.
In Conversation with David Frum features the insights and analysis of leading author, journalist, and thinker David Frum, who weighs in every second Friday on global and Canadian news events.
The Hub's media criticism podcast Full Press looks at how the media in Canada is covering the major stories of the day. Full press is hosted by The Hub's managing editor Harrison Lowman, and features journalist Tara Henley, and veteran news media executive Peter Menzies.
Hub Headlines features audio versions of the best analysis published daily in The Hub. Enjoy listening to original and provocative takes on the issues that matter while you are on the go.
Each Friday, The Hub Roundtable features Hub co-founders Rudyard Griffiths' and Sean Speer's take on the big political and economic stories making the news.
Hub Dialogues features The Hub's editor-at-large Sean Speer and managing editor Harrison Lowman engaged in longform conversations with leading thinkers on the big issues and ideas shaping the public conversation.
In Conversation with David Frum features the insights and analysis of leading author, journalist, and thinker David Frum, who weighs in every second Friday on global and Canadian news events.
The Hub's media criticism podcast Full Press looks at how the media in Canada is covering the major stories of the day. Full press is hosted by The Hub's managing editor Harrison Lowman, and features journalist Tara Henley, and veteran news media executive Peter Menzies.
Hub Headlines features audio versions of the best analysis published daily in The Hub. Enjoy listening to original and provocative takes on the issues that matter while you are on the go.
Each Friday, The Hub Roundtable features Hub co-founders Rudyard Griffiths' and Sean Speer's take on the big political and economic stories making the news.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 17, 2025 • 34min
A high-stakes fall federal budget and immigration policy at the forefront
David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, and Amanda Galbraith, Principal at Oyster Group, provide sharp insights into the current Canadian political landscape. They discuss Mark Carney's leadership style and the challenges of uniting a diverse Liberal coalition while tackling a critical fall budget. The duo also explores Pierre Poilievre's strategy using immigration as a wedge issue to fragment the Liberals. Tune in for a captivating analysis of how these dynamics shape the political battlefield in Canada!
Sep 17, 2025 • 11min
CUSMA renegotiations start: What does Trump want?
The launch of USMCA consultations sparks crucial discussions about potential negotiations. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra reveals a once-possible 'grand bargain' that didn't materialize. The hosts delve into the implications of U.S. grievances and how auto-sector proposals could threaten Canadian production. Listeners are left pondering whether Canada missed a substantial opportunity for a bilateral deal. The stakes are high for key industries as the renegotiation unfolds.
Sep 17, 2025 • 16min
Is Canada already in a recession?
Trevor Tombe, a Professor of Economics at the University of Calgary, discusses whether Canada is teetering on the edge of a recession, analyzing rising unemployment and recent job losses. Meanwhile, Richard Shimooka advocates for increased investment in F-35 fighter jets while weighing other military options for Canada. They dive into the implications of economic uncertainty on households and the nation’s defense strategy amidst growing tensions with China, highlighting the complexities of military procurement and economic forecasting.
Sep 16, 2025 • 43min
Sam Tanenhaus on Bill Buckley's life and legacy in the conservative movement
In this engaging discussion, Sam Tanenhaus, a best-selling author and journalist, unpacks his biography of William F. Buckley Jr. He explores Buckley's personal tragedies and complex relationships, shedding light on how these experiences shaped his impact on the conservative movement. Tanenhaus sheds light on Buckley's interactions with elite and populist movements in today's fragmented political landscape, as well as the intricate dynamics within his family. He also delves into Buckley’s complicated ties to Canada, offering a nuanced view of his life and legacy.
Sep 16, 2025 • 25min
Parliament returns. What are the challenges facing Carney and Poilievre?
Ginny Roth, a partner at Crestview Strategy and a regular political analyst, shares her insights on the challenges facing Canadian leaders as Parliament resumes. She highlights Pierre Poilievre's balancing act of moderating his tone without losing his fiery edge while tackling immigration as a key issue. Roth also discusses Prime Minister Mark Carney's difficult task of building a cohesive team amidst conservative pushback and progressive pressures, emphasizing the need for effective political alliances in the current climate.
Sep 16, 2025 • 12min
Mark Carney’s Build Canada Homes agency won’t solve Canada’s housing crisis
Mark Carney's new housing initiative faces heavy criticism for ignoring the root causes of Canada's housing crisis, emphasizing the need for zoning reform and lower development costs. The discussion pivots to Canada's defense strategy, questioning the value of the NORAD agreement amid shifting U.S. politics and its impact on military readiness in the Arctic. The podcast highlights the implications for Canada's sovereignty and the potential need for modernized defense capabilities, including advanced fighter jets.
Sep 15, 2025 • 14min
How Carney's Build Canada Homes plan misdiagnoses the housing crisis
Chris Spoke, a partner at Toronto Standard, dives into the complexities of Canada's housing affordability crisis. He critiques Prime Minister Mark Carney's Build Canada Homes agency, arguing it misdiagnoses the actual issues at play. Spoke discusses high taxation and regulations as barriers to increasing supply. He calls for simpler construction methods and a reevaluation of government approaches to truly tackle the crisis. The conversation challenges listeners to rethink the effectiveness of current housing strategies and explore broader solutions.
Sep 15, 2025 • 41min
Sam Tanenhaus on Bill Buckley's rise as America's leading conservative intellectual
In this engaging discussion, best-selling author and journalist Sam Tanenhaus dives into the life of William F. Buckley Jr., America's leading conservative intellectual. He explores Buckley’s early years, fast-tracked career, and influential ideas that shaped the conservative movement. Tanenhaus reflects on Buckley’s charm and wit, his role in uniting diverse factions, and the legacy he left behind. The conversation also touches on the paradoxes of race in conservative thought and the challenges of evolving conservatism in the political landscape.
8 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 10min
The House returns—The tests begin
The podcast dives into Canada's new political landscape as the House of Commons resumes, shifting from progressive ideals to a centrist approach focused on growth and security. Listeners gain insight into the Conservative Party's strategic maneuvers under Pierre Polyev, navigating tough issues like the cost of living. It also highlights the evolving dynamics in Parliament, particularly following the NDP's loss of official status amid rising economic anxieties. Effective leadership is more crucial than ever in this challenging climate.
Sep 12, 2025 • 17min
As Parliament returns, will the real Mark Carney stand up?
The return of Parliament brings fresh scrutiny on Prime Minister Mark Carney's policy performance, revealing a tension between his ambitious campaign promises and current realities. Discussions highlight the difference between rhetoric and action in government trade policies, particularly regarding a stalled agreement. The hosts also analyze the challenges of balancing political commitments with economic pressures amid a rising deficit, questioning how these dynamics will shape future governance. Insights on the media landscape and artificial intelligence add depth to the conversation.
