

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

May 31, 2025 • 13min
Carney’s nation-building reset
Discover Canada's fresh approach to infrastructure amidst rising trade tensions, focusing on new laws for project approvals and the shift towards technical assessments. Dive into the economic landscape with a spike in exports and business investment, as companies brace for impending tariffs. The looming Bank of Canada interest rate meeting hints at stability, fueled by encouraging economic indicators despite a dip in household spending. Tune in for sharp insights and analysis on these crucial developments!

May 30, 2025 • 23min
Did the throne speech tells us anything important?
The hosts dive into the recent throne speech, exploring its implications for the Carney government's bold economic agenda. They discuss the need for a more ambitious growth strategy in Canada amidst concerns over spending and clarity in policies. There’s a compelling critique of current financial strategies, particularly regarding public sector dynamics and resource management. Finally, the announcement of the Hunter Prize for Public Policy shines a light on innovative solutions to enhance living standards.

May 30, 2025 • 15min
Trump's tariffs vs. the U.S. Constitution
Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University and a key figure in challenging Trump's tariffs at the International Trade Court, dives into the constitutional implications of these tariffs. He discusses the recent ruling that deemed many tariffs unconstitutional and what this means for presidential power. Somin critiques the dubious justifications for tariffs and calls for clearer definitions of emergencies in trade policy, while exploring the potential future of this legal battle as it may reach the Supreme Court.

May 30, 2025 • 37min
John Stackhouse and RJ Johnston on why gas security should be at the centre of the global agenda
Join John Stackhouse, Senior VP at RBC, and RJ Johnston, Senior Director at Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy, as they discuss the critical role of gas security on the global stage. They highlight why this moment is key for the G7 to prioritize gas security and address the complexities of the global LNG market, particularly in relation to China's influence. The duo explores potential collaborations between Canada and Japan and advocates for a 'G7 gas club' to tackle energy challenges while ensuring a sustainable future.

May 30, 2025 • 17min
It’s time for Canada’s conservatives to embrace electoral reform
The discussion kicks off with the Conservative Party's need for electoral reform, highlighting the benefits of proportional representation. It dives into the dynamics of vote splitting that have aided Liberal wins, prompting a rethink of conservatism in Canada. The conversation also explores how AI is transforming public policy, showcasing both its potential and the risks of misinformation. Emphasizing the importance of transparency, the hosts argue for a careful balance between AI efficiency and human oversight in decision-making.

May 29, 2025 • 17min
Carneyomics: What are Carney's plans for the Canadian economy?
This discussion delves into Mark Carney's plans for Canada's economy, post-throne speech. It highlights the tension between government spending and the pursuit of transformative growth. The conversation critiques the focus on the natural resource sector while sidelining digital and service industries. There's an interesting debate on the effectiveness of state-led strategies versus private sector involvement. Finally, the challenges of Canadian entrepreneurship and the impact of government policies on business startups and investment are tackled.

May 29, 2025 • 14min
Canada is on the verge of a new era for internal trade
Theo Argitis, a Hub contributor focusing on retirement economics, and Trevor Tombe, an economics professor at the University of Calgary, dive into Canada’s internal trade landscape. They discuss the necessity for provinces to collaborate to enhance trade agreements. Argitis raises concerns about Canadians’ retirement security tied to the U.S. economy, while Tombe outlines the potential economic benefits of provincial trade agreements. Together, they navigate the implications of Canada’s growing dependence on the U.S. and the urgent need for strategic investment reassessments.

May 28, 2025 • 17min
Canada can no longer afford to be governed by luxury beliefs
Eric Lombardi, President and founder of More Neighbours Toronto, discusses the concept of 'luxury beliefs' and their detrimental impact on Canada’s policy-making. He addresses the housing crisis, emphasizing how unrealistic expectations hinder effective governance. Lombardi critiques how these beliefs shape public policies, leading to trade-offs like land monopolies and housing shortages. He also highlights the generational divide in political discourse, urging for policies that address the needs of younger citizens, while advocating for a focus on pragmatic solutions over mediocrity.

7 snips
May 28, 2025 • 15min
The expectations are set high with a lofty speech from the throne
The discussion kicks off with a critique of a recent speech that raises sky-high expectations for Canada's future, emphasizing the need for concrete plans to back it up. It argues against 'luxury opinions' that obscure real challenges, particularly in housing and social inequalities. The gap between aspirational infrastructure and practical needs is put under the microscope. Finally, the podcast delves into the complexities of immigration policies, urging a rethink of multicultural narratives to better align with national interests.

7 snips
May 27, 2025 • 16min
The Throne Speech sets expectations high
James Moore, a former cabinet minister in the Harper government and now a senior advisor at Edelman, dives into Canada’s political landscape. He analyzes the recent throne speech, discussing the balancing act between heightened expectations and legislative action needed for Canada's energy strategy. Moore highlights the themes of unity and sovereignty, emphasizing diplomacy amidst challenges. The conversation also touches on the NDP's struggles and the need for a collaborative tone in Parliament post-election, reflecting public desire for constructive governance.