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 news cycle never slows down and neither does Hub Hits. Each day we provide you with quick hits on topical stories, big issues and important voices appearing in The Hub.
Every week, editor-at-large Sean Speer is joined by David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, and Amanda Galbraith, principal at Oyster Group, to dig into the drama and strategy of Canadian politics. Topics range from the issues dominating headlines, the communications battles behind the scenes, to the trends shaping parties, leaders, and voters. Some weeks, they'll focus on the hot story in Ottawa.
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 news cycle never slows down and neither does Hub Hits. Each day we provide you with quick hits on topical stories, big issues and important voices appearing in The Hub.
Every week, editor-at-large Sean Speer is joined by David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, and Amanda Galbraith, principal at Oyster Group, to dig into the drama and strategy of Canadian politics. Topics range from the issues dominating headlines, the communications battles behind the scenes, to the trends shaping parties, leaders, and voters. Some weeks, they'll focus on the hot story in Ottawa.
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 24, 2025 • 43min
Carney's UN speech and Canada's constitutional controversy
Amanda Galbraith, a seasoned political strategist at Oyster Group, and David Coletto, founder of Abacus Data, dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney's performance at the UN and his recognition of Palestine. They dissect the complex public reactions to these moves, revealing the nuanced expectations Canadians have about upcoming budget cuts and investments. The discussion also touches on the government's challenge to the notwithstanding clause and the launch of Avi Lewis's NDP leadership campaign, hinting at the shifting dynamics in Canadian politics.
Sep 24, 2025 • 10min
Canada's brain drain crisis: Why tech startups are fleeing
Lucy Hargreaves, co-founder and CEO of Build Canada, highlights a troubling trend: Canadian tech startups are fleeing the country. She delves into the pressing issues driving this exodus, including regulatory red tape and uncompetitive capital gains policies compared to the U.S. Hargreaves emphasizes the need for bold changes over 'safe incrementalism' to retain talent. She also discusses cultural barriers to risk-taking that hinder entrepreneurship in Canada, while maintaining that there is still potential for growth within the country.
Sep 24, 2025 • 14min
Indigenous leaders and industry should set the terms for Canada's major projects
Karen Restoule, Director of Indigenous Affairs at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, advocates for Indigenous leaders to set the terms for major projects in Canada, emphasizing that trust, not speed, is crucial for success. Meanwhile, Kirk LaPointe discusses the intense drama surrounding John Rustad’s narrow escape from a leadership review in the BC Conservative Party, highlighting issues like disqualified memberships and internal conflicts. The conversation reveals the complex dynamics influencing both Indigenous partnerships and political maneuvers.
Sep 23, 2025 • 12min
Rustad survives, but can he lead?
In this engaging discussion, Kirk LaPointe, a British Columbia correspondent with sharp insights into provincial politics, dives into John Rustad's recent leadership review. Kirk highlights the surprisingly low voter turnout, casting doubt on Rustad's mandate despite his majority support. He explores the internal tensions within the party, where moderates clash with the right wing. Interesting dynamics surrounding the lack of a strong opposition and the potential risks of a caucus collapse emerge, stimulating thoughts on the future of B.C. Conservative leadership.
Sep 23, 2025 • 12min
How bad is Canada's condo crash?
Ron Butler, an experienced mortgage broker and housing market commentator from Butler Mortgage, joins to dissect Canada’s chilling real estate crisis. He highlights the surge in foreclosures not seen since 2009 and the cascading effect of power-of-sale properties dragging down neighbourhood prices, particularly in the condo market, which he describes as a 'horror show.' Discussion shifts to the disconnect between recent rate cuts by the Bank of Canada and their lack of impact on housing recovery, raising questions about future policies and market direction.
11 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 14min
Why is Carney trying to blow up our constitutional order?
Joanna Barron, a keen commentator and legal observer, dives into the implications of the federal government's push to alter judicial review concerning the notwithstanding clause. She explores how this move could dangerously shift power to judges, jeopardizing democratic accountability. Barron raises critical questions about whether the government's actions might provoke a crisis of national unity, sparking a broader debate on the balance between legislative intent and judicial oversight.
Sep 22, 2025 • 14min
Canada recognizes a Palestinian state. Symbolism over substance?
The hosts delve into Canada's recognition of a Palestinian state, sparking heated debates on its timing and implications. They argue that this move may inadvertently reward Hamas, especially following the October 7 events. Emotional language in Prime Minister Carney's announcement is scrutinized alongside concerns about the legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority. The discussion raises questions about whether this recognition is a genuine diplomatic effort or just symbolic politics. Ultimately, they warn that such actions could complicate future peace efforts.
Sep 22, 2025 • 13min
Canada should embrace Washington's call for a 'grander bargain'
Ed Fast, Former Minister of International Trade and a Distinguished Fellow at the MacDonald-Laurier Institute, discusses Canada's trade strategy in response to a call from Washington for a 'grander bargain'. He emphasizes the potential benefits of a comprehensive deal with the U.S., highlighting key areas like critical minerals and continental defense. Fast argues that this approach could provide Canada with greater leverage and stability for the future. Additionally, Howard Anglin explores the notion of political consensus using the metaphor of phantom islands, suggesting a need for policy reassessment.
Sep 20, 2025 • 7min
The Liberal government's radical gamble to rewrite Canada's constitutional order
Dive into the controversial decision by the Liberal government to alter Canada’s constitutional framework. Hear critiques of Carney’s appeal to the Supreme Court regarding the notwithstanding clause, considered a risky move. The discussion also touches on recent cabinet choices and their implications for governance. Additionally, enjoy a heartfelt personal reflection on selling a home, exploring themes of gratitude and cherished memories that influence one’s outlook on life.
Sep 19, 2025 • 17min
Poking the section 33 bear
Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer dive into the political storm surrounding the federal government's intervention in a Supreme Court case about the notwithstanding clause. They explore the historical implications of this move, suggesting it could unravel the constitutional balance established in 1982. The hosts also discuss the potential backlash from provinces like Quebec and Alberta, hinting at a possible national unity crisis. Finally, they critique Carney's political strategies and the implications of a delayed federal budget amid growing fiscal concerns.
