

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 6, 2025 • 35min
Goldy Hyder on how Canada's new government can help companies grow
Goldy Hyder, President and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, shares insights on how the new government can create an encouraging environment for business growth. He emphasizes the need for strong trade relationships, particularly with the U.S., while navigating the complexities of Canada’s resource management. Hyder also discusses tackling affordability challenges and the urgent need for skilled immigrants to fill labor shortages. With an optimistic outlook, he champions unity among businesses and government to seize economic opportunities.

May 6, 2025 • 15min
Trump's movie madness
Joseph Steinberg, an Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Toronto, dives into President Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign films and their implications for Canada's film industry. He discusses how government subsidies have spurred Canada's production boom and the economic rationale behind them. Steinberg also explores the disruptive effects of movie productions on local communities and critiques the potential downsides of reducing these subsidies, highlighting the complexities of trade negotiations with the U.S.

May 6, 2025 • 15min
Trump is Mark Carney's first major test
Ed Fast, former Minister of International Trade in the Harper government, engages in a deep dive into the complexities of trade negotiations with the U.S. His insights highlight the unpredictable nature of the current administration's approach and its impacts on Canada. Fast discusses the challenges posed by CUSMA, including auto plant closures, and the urgent need for a robust framework to enhance trade relations. He also emphasizes opportunities for economic reform and modernization in Canada’s trade strategy, showcasing the importance of planning amid political fluctuations.

May 6, 2025 • 12min
Mark Carney’s first major test is here: negotiating with Donald Trump
Mark Carney faces a challenging negotiation with Donald Trump, focusing on key trade issues that could shape Canada's economic future. The discussion highlights the importance of a strategic approach to these negotiations. Meanwhile, the conversation turns to the alarming trends in Canada's press independence, revealing how government funding has compromised journalism and eroded public trust. This raises questions about the future of independent media and the growing demand for trustworthy news.

May 5, 2025 • 13min
The Americanization of Canadian politics
Eric Kaufmann, a Professor of Politics at the University of Buckingham and author of 'The Third Awokening,' dives into the evolving Canadian political landscape. He discusses the shift from economic divides to cultural factors affecting voting behavior. Kaufmann highlights how immigration views have polarized Canadian opinions, mirroring trends in the U.S. He argues that identity and values are now pivotal in shaping electoral decisions, potentially leading Canada toward a two-party system driven by cultural issues.

May 5, 2025 • 14min
Canada’s economic engine runs through the West
Discover the driving force of Canada's economy as it hinges on the western provinces. The discussion highlights the critical need for federal and provincial collaboration to ensure sustainable growth while addressing environmental concerns. Delve into the critique of the Conservative Party's media strategy, which has struggled to resonate with key outlets and the public. The importance of reshaping communication tactics for better voter connection and engagement with changing media dynamics also takes center stage.

May 3, 2025 • 9min
From rhetoric to reality for Mark Carney
The podcast dives into Mark Carney's ambitious start as Prime Minister, balancing progressive social policies with private sector growth. It discusses the challenges he faces, like international relations and domestic priorities. Predictions about trade stability are also explored, including critical tariff renegotiations with the U.S., and the urgent need for action to enhance Canada's global trade position. Market sentiments and consumer confidence take center stage as the landscape shifts.

May 2, 2025 • 20min
What should we expect from Carney's government?
Ginny Roth, a Partner at Crestview Strategy and a political commentator, joins the discussion on Prime Minister Mark Carney's initial press conference and future governmental strategies. She delves into the balance of coalition politics, emphasizing the challenges of uniting centrists and progressives. The conversation also critiques the government's approach to immigration and public safety amid rising urban issues. Roth highlights the key cabinet selections and how Carney's governance style aims to balance identity politics with meritocracy while engaging with U.S. relations.

May 2, 2025 • 12min
The Laurentian elite strikes back
In this discussion, John Ibbitson, a regular contributor and bestselling author, dives into the role of the Laurentian elites in Canadian politics. He explores how these elites have historically shaped governance and societal issues, leaving many provinces feeling excluded. The podcast critiques not only the achievements and setbacks of the Trudeau government but also examines the political resurgence of a new coalition within the Conservative Party. Ibbitson provides insights on how demographic changes impact power dynamics, encouraging a deeper understanding of elitism in Canada.

May 2, 2025 • 16min
David Frum: Trump’s main character syndrome & how the U.S. lost the Canadian election
David Frum, a leading author and journalist, shares his insights on the chaotic early days of the Trump administration. He discusses the implications of recent tariffs and the looming threat of recession. The conversation also touches on the lessons learned from the Canadian election results, examining how the Conservative Party can adapt. Frum reflects on the historical mismanagement of economic policies, drawing parallels between Trump and Hoover's leadership during critical times. The discussion highlights the unsettling effects of centralized power on economic stability.