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 9, 2025 • 22min
Michael Atkinson and Haizhen Mou on what Canada Got Right — and Wrong — on COVID Fiscal Policy
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.
May 9, 2025 • 14min
Can the Conservative Party loosen up and let the public in?
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.
May 9, 2025 • 13min
Can Carney reverse course on 10 years of Liberal mismanagement?
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.
May 8, 2025 • 16min
David Frum: The Trump-Carney face-off
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.
May 8, 2025 • 18min
James Kelly on constraining the courts and judicial activism
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.
May 8, 2025 • 36min
Should conservatives even bother appearing on mainstream media?
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.
May 8, 2025 • 16min
Did the boomer agenda win the 2025 election?
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.
May 7, 2025 • 12min
The future of Trump-Carney trade talks
Ian Lee, a professor at the Sprott School of Business, dives deep into the recent Trump-Carney trade talks. He emphasizes the importance of personal rapport in effective negotiations. The conversation highlights the complex challenges in Canada-U.S. trade, particularly for the automotive sector. Lee discusses the controversial claims regarding Canada’s trade standing and the necessity of public support to tackle critical issues like supply management and foreign investments. This dialogue reveals the intricate landscape of trade relations that could shape the future.
May 7, 2025 • 16min
Precarity upended Poilievre's campaign narrative
David Coletto, CEO and founder of Abacus Data, dives into the complexities of modern political dynamics and voter sentiment in the wake of recent elections. He discusses how feelings of scarcity have influenced the electorate and shaped campaign strategies, especially for the Conservative Party. Coletto also explores the evolving demands for healthcare, education, and infrastructure, and how AI's impact is altering political discourse. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by parties in a minority parliament and the necessity of authenticity in rebranding efforts.
May 7, 2025 • 13min
The mindset shift that rewrote Canada’s 2025 election
The podcast delves into the dramatic shift in Canadian politics leading up to the 2025 election. It highlights the change from a scarcity mindset to a sense of precarity among voters. The discussion uniquely compares political trends in Canada and Australia, revealing a move from populist rage to a demand for reassurance and stability. The struggles of the Conservative Party in navigating these evolving sentiments are central to the conversation, along with insights into how external factors shape leadership perceptions.
