
Hub Podcasts
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 Bricker & Speer podcast features The Hub’s editor-at-large Sean Speer in conversation with the CEO of Ipsos Global Public Affairs, Darrell Bricker. Twice monthly, Darrell and Sean cover the politics, personalities and policy driving public opinion and politics in Canada.
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.
Latest episodes

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.

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.