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
Jul 25, 2025 • 16min
Andrew Coyne on why Canadians shouldn't care if they are different from Americans
Andrew Coyne, a Globe and Mail columnist, reflects on Canada’s national identity, inspired by George Grant's Lament for a Nation. He argues against cultural protectionism and American influence, advocating for a proud, civic-minded Canadian nationalism based on shared values. Coyne discusses Canada's urgent housing crisis, emphasizing the need for new homes and critiquing Canadian content regulations. He highlights how unity stems from shared beliefs, noting Canada’s transformation and increasing diversity since the 1960s.
Jul 25, 2025 • 11min
The Hockey Canada trial verdict doesn't tell the whole story
Joanna Baron, Executive Director of the Canadian Constitution Foundation and commentator on legal issues, discusses the recent Hockey Canada trial verdict. She sheds light on the complexities of trauma responses, challenging the misconceptions of consent that emerged during the trial. Joanna critiques the legal system's high standards of proof, emphasizing how they can fail to capture the emotional truths of assault victims. Additionally, she delves into the cultural dynamics surrounding consent and intoxication, urging a deeper understanding of these critical issues.
Jul 24, 2025 • 15min
What are the opportunities and risks with AI?
Samuel Hammond, Chief Economist at the Foundation for American Innovation, shares insights on the contrasting AI strategies of the Trump and Biden administrations. He dives into the geopolitical implications of AI regulation and its effects on free speech and information consumption. Hammond emphasizes the balance needed between leveraging AI's potential and addressing its risks. The discussion also touches on the U.S.-China AI race and the future of artificial intelligence, including advancements in reasoning models and the impact on traditional jobs.
Jul 24, 2025 • 20min
David Frum: Epstein, Trump's tariff threats against Canada, and Canadian pessimism
Join David Frum, a leading author and journalist, as he explores some of today's hottest topics. He dives into the intricate ties between Trump and Epstein, revealing political implications of Trump's tariff threats against Canada. Frum shares his observations of growing pessimism across Canada, discussing the pressing housing crisis and diplomatic tensions with the U.S. He also scrutinizes the Gaza conflict, emphasizing the need for a strong governmental response to civic disturbances. This engaging conversation offers insightful perspectives on urgent contemporary issues.
Jul 24, 2025 • 41min
What would it take for an independent Alberta to join Canada today?
Gary Mar, President of the Canada West Foundation and a former Alberta cabinet minister, teams up with Jared Wesley, a political science professor specializing in Alberta's political culture. They discuss Alberta's hypothetical independence from Canada and the complex negotiations that would follow, from treaty rewrites with Indigenous peoples to geopolitical challenges. They also explore the emotional impact of referendums, Alberta's quest for respect within Confederation, and the balancing act of maintaining its identity amid growing separatist sentiments.
Jul 24, 2025 • 6min
Just how strong is the U.S. economy? Here’s what the bond market says
Discover how the bond market reveals the true strength of the U.S. economy. Explore the juxtaposition of rising bond yields and government debt concerns. Delve into the housing crisis and the effects of short-term rentals on local markets. Examine the growing skepticism regarding government finances and how credit rating downgrades impact investor confidence. This insightful commentary offers a fresh perspective on critical economic indicators that shape our financial landscape.
6 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 10min
Canada is cash-strapped? Wrong
Mark Johnson, a lawyer and former Conservative candidate, dives into the controversial financial state of Canada. He argues against the belief that the nation is cash-strapped, spotlighting over $700 billion sitting unused in the Canada Pension Plan. Johnson discusses the fund's strong cash flow and the potential benefits of reallocating its surplus toward public projects and reducing premiums. He emphasizes the importance of reassessing the pension plan's surplus and urges a shift away from blaming short-term rentals for financial woes.
6 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 17min
Is Trump right about tariffs?
A gripping debate unfolds around the complexities of Trump's tariffs and their economic impact on the U.S. Are they actually beneficial? Early signs suggest increased Treasury revenue and a robust stock market, but there's a darker side. Long-term political fallout and waning global trust cast a shadow over these gains. The discussion raises crucial questions about corporate investments, taxation, and the health of international trade relations. Can protectionist strategies really safeguard the economy without sacrificing global partnerships?
Jul 22, 2025 • 6min
Carney’s meetings with the premiers have a chance to be consequential
The discussion dives into the necessity for reform in Canada's fiscal federalism, emphasizing the need for greater provincial autonomy over taxation and healthcare funding. It explores the potential benefits of reducing federal control and the hurdles that come with it. The narrative also analyzes Canada’s complex relationship with the U.S., where frustrations run high yet reliance remains deep. Lastly, it questions Canada’s inclination to shift towards China in today’s changing geopolitical landscape.
Jul 21, 2025 • 39min
Lucy Hargreaves on boosting Canada's economy and future
Lucy Hargreaves, CEO of Build Canada, leads initiatives to engage volunteers in civic projects and reshape the narrative around growth. She dives into critical issues like Canada's housing crisis, revealing the need for 5.8 million new homes by 2030. The conversation highlights how entrepreneurs can drive economic policy and impact intercultural dynamics in business growth. Hargreaves also discusses the role of technology in traditional industries and strategies to retain Canadian talent as young innovators seek opportunities abroad.
