Hub Podcasts

The discussion delves into Mark Carney's cabinet picks and their potential impact on economic policy in Canada. It highlights the challenges of governing in a minority parliament and the significance of aligning candidates with reformative goals. The podcast also addresses Canada's complex trade relationships, especially with the U.S., while navigating economic uncertainties. Additionally, troubling employment trends are analyzed, revealing a loss of 24,000 jobs and a spike in the jobless rate, particularly due to significant manufacturing declines in Ontario.

Beau Jarvis, CEO of Wesgroup Properties, and Brad Jones, Chief Development Officer at Wesgroup, dive deep into Canada's housing crisis. They analyze the Liberal government's development plans and the inefficiencies faced in construction, particularly with union labor. Insights into how immigration impacts housing demand are shared, alongside a look at the evolving rental landscape and the need for affordable housing options. The discussion also emphasizes reviving historical programs to solve modern housing challenges.

Join political commentator and YouTuber J.J. McCullough as he dives into Mark Carney's influential Washington visit and the shifting tides in Canadian politics. They discuss Andrew Scheer's interim leadership and the Conservative Party's need for authenticity. Expect a lively conversation on Trump's quirky comments regarding middle-class items like baby dolls and pencil crayons. The panel also tackles strategic shifts and the importance of engaging female voters, wrapping up with a touch of humor about the absurdities of parliamentary dynamics.

This discussion features Michael Atkinson, a professor at the University of Saskatchewan and co-author of "Fiscal Choices: Canada After the Pandemic," alongside Haizhen Mou. They dive deep into Canada’s fiscal measures during COVID-19, analyzing nearly $300 billion in initiatives and the lessons learned for future crises. The conversation explores the importance of resilient policies in a polycrisis era and emphasizes building public trust through accountability in government spending. The insights paint a vivid picture of Canada’s economic landscape in challenging times.

The discussion dives into the Conservative Party's recent controversies, particularly Pierre Polyev's struggle to re-establish his influence post-election. Analyses reveal a tension between authority and openness, suggesting the need for vulnerability to drive positive change. The critique of reinstating former leadership over fresh talent raises questions about voter engagement. The podcast also examines the challenges of command-style leadership and the importance of evolving connections with party members for future success.

Join David Polansky, a Toronto-based writer and research fellow, as he discusses whether Mark Carney can truly shift the trajectory of over a decade of Liberal governance. The conversation tackles pressing questions about immigration policies and energy management in Canada. Polansky also highlights federal-provincial tensions and Alberta's potential secession. Finally, the challenges Carney faces in reforming the judicial system and his government's response to socio-economic issues are critically examined, revealing the complexities of political change.

David Frum, a prominent author and journalist, shares insights on Prime Minister Mark Carney's inaugural meeting with President Trump, revealing its implications for U.S.-Canada trade negotiations. The discussion highlights Trump's unexpected comments on consumerism and tariffs, the intricate dynamics of their relationship amid political tensions, and the shifting landscape of Canada-U.S. trade policy. Frum also explores how personal relationships influence economic decisions, cautioning against aggressive trade tactics that could harm international alliances.

James Kelly, a political science professor at Concordia University and author of the acclaimed book 'Constraining the Court,' dives into the intricate dance between judicial authority and public policy in Canada. He explores how landmark rulings, like those on medical assistance in dying, shape legislation. The discussion touches on the tensions between judges and legislators, the impact of interest groups on policy through litigation, and the often-misunderstood notwithstanding clause in constitutional law, all highlighting the delicate balance within Canadian democracy.

Eli Cantin-Nantel, The Hub's Ottawa correspondent, discusses the challenges conservatives face in engaging with mainstream media. He critiques Pierre Poilievre’s media strategy and its potential impact on voter support. The conversation also delves into the CBC's mishaps in fact-checking Indigenous issues, emphasizing the importance of accountability. Additionally, they explore the interplay of social media with political communication, illustrating how evolving media strategies can reshape public dialogue and conservative representation.

In this discussion, Theo Argitis, editor-at-large for business and economics at The Hub, analyzes the outcomes of the 2025 Canadian election, spotlighting the influence of age and economics on voter behavior. He delves into the widening generational divide, particularly how young Canadians and immigrants face rising unemployment while older voters benefit from stable economic conditions. Argitis also explores the complexities of the boomer agenda, revealing tensions between policies for seniors and the pressing needs of younger generations.