Hub Podcasts

Ryan Hastman, host of Alberta Edge, shares insights into the Calgary Stampede, a hallmark of Alberta's culture and economy. He highlights how the Stampede fosters community spirit with events like pancake breakfasts, uniting locals and visitors alike. Hastman emphasizes its role in celebrating Western heritage, promoting local pride, and driving economic growth. The discussion also touches on the dynamic atmosphere of the Stampede, blending rodeo excitement with political engagement, making it a unique cultural phenomenon.

In this engaging discussion, Rudyard Griffiths, Publisher of The Hub and expert on the intersection of AI and journalism, shares insights on the seismic shifts occurring in Canada's news industry. He emphasizes how AI is reshaping news consumption, leading to declining engagement rates. Griffiths explores both the challenges and exciting opportunities this technology presents, sparking a conversation about the future of news distribution in Canada. Don't miss his provocative take on the impending transformation!

Exploring Google's new AI impact, the discussion highlights how AI-generated summaries threaten traditional news engagement and revenue. The hosts delve into the stark contrasts between AI-driven news and conventional methods. They emphasize the urgent need for media outlets to adapt to an AI-centric landscape while fostering direct audience connections. The potential for innovation amidst disruption is also examined, positioning these technological changes as both a challenge and an opportunity for the industry's future.

Join John Stackhouse, RBC's senior VP, Janice Stein from the Munk School, and Jaxson Khan, CEO of Aperture AI, as they explore Canada's AI landscape. They tackle the challenges of slow adoption despite strong research, emphasizing the need for public policy support. The trio discusses the importance of digital infrastructure, workforce retraining, and enhancing AI literacy. They also highlight innovative case studies and the need for new metrics to measure success, making a compelling case for Canada to step up in the global AI race.

The podcast dives into Ontario's housing crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for family-friendly housing. Skyrocketing prices and rental costs are explored as key barriers to social improvement. Listeners hear critiques of current government reforms and the inefficient zoning laws that hinder community growth. The discussion advocates for strategic reforms to enhance housing availability and affordability, shedding light on how these changes can drive economic productivity and create better living environments for families.

Michael Ignatieff, a historian and former leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, dives into Canada's identity crisis and its future. He critiques how liberalism has strayed, emphasizing the need for revitalized values that prioritize freedom and open dialogue. Ignatieff discusses the importance of effective leadership amid geopolitical changes and advocates for stronger Canadian ties with Europe. He also reflects on the unique bilingual culture of Quebec, highlighting its significance in shaping a collective Canadian identity.

This discussion highlights the tension between immigration policies and worker welfare in Canada. It reveals how current practices tend to favor corporate interests over labor quality and wages. Critics argue that this imbalance undermines the rights and livelihoods of local workers. The conversation emphasizes the need for pro-worker immigration strategies that ensure equitable outcomes in the labor market. Listen in for a provocative take on how policy impacts both workers and the economy.

Explore the impact of recent tax cuts by leaders like Mark Carney and Donald Trump as they navigate the tricky waters of fiscal borrowing. The discussion highlights the growing deficits and sustainability concerns tied to these policies. Delve into the fiscal challenges Canada and the UK face, balancing government spending with economic growth while politicians shy away from tough decisions. Plus, gain insights into trade and housing trends in Canada, revealing the intricate web of modern economics.

The discussion kicks off with a look at the cultural significance of the 4th of July and the quirky Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Competition. Then, it dives into the collision of Republican fiscal strategies, highlighting tensions between traditional and working-class support. The hosts explore the Carney government's ambitious fiscal plans and looming deficits. Lastly, they humorously connect American exceptionalism to contemporary culture, hinting at deeper insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

Peter Menzies, a commentator and former vice chair of the CRTC, delves into Justin Trudeau's legislative legacy and its haunting impact on the current Liberal government. He highlights the challenges posed by Trudeau's policies, including the retraction of a digital services tax under U.S. pressure. Menzies argues that these decisions significantly shape Canada’s media and technology landscape, reflecting the ongoing struggles the Liberals face in navigating the repercussions of past legislation.