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 26, 2025 • 11min
The Hub’s political insiders on what to watch for as Parliament returns
As Parliament reconvenes, political insiders dissect the challenges ahead for the new Prime Minister amid intense government-opposition dynamics. They scrutinize the Carney government's budgeting strategy, warning it may obscure true spending and debt. The conversation touches on the need for innovative policies to navigate economic uncertainties, while also examining the official opposition's strategic positioning and its implications for future voter engagement.
May 24, 2025 • 13min
Who’s getting what, Carney’s budget debate, and Poilievre's growth problem
The discussion delves into the pressing issue of Canadian household spending, particularly how rising costs in food and shelter hit lower-income families the hardest. It raises questions about the fairness of current economic policies and tax systems. Additionally, the conversation shifts to government spending, revealing its impact on female workforce participation and the crucial role of childcare. Anticipated budget announcements promise to clarify how operational and capital expenses are managed amidst political hurdles.
May 23, 2025 • 23min
The Liberal government's shaky start and the imminent return to Parliament
Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer dive into the troubles facing Prime Minister Mark Carney, from hiring woes to vague policy directions. As Parliament's return looms, they assess the government's legislative ambitions against a backdrop of earlier national crises. The duo discusses the complexities of leadership amidst changing public sentiment and the challenges of balancing bold initiatives with real governance. They also highlight the risks of prioritizing short-term gains over long-term economic health in Canadian politics.
May 23, 2025 • 22min
The importance of the Reform Act as Parliament resumes
Michael Chong, Conservative MP for Wellington-Halton Hills North and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, dives into the critical role of the Reform Act in reshaping parliamentary power just shy of its 10th anniversary. He discusses how the act sought to enhance the influence of elected MPs and its implications for the Conservative Party's evolution. Chong also touches on Canada's shifting foreign policy, particularly in relation to the U.S. and the importance of a strong stance against anti-Semitism during current Middle Eastern tensions.
May 23, 2025 • 13min
Mark Carney is the prime minister—he should stop acting like a president
Joanna Baron, Executive Director of the Canadian Constitution Foundation, challenges the presidential-style leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, calling for a return to parliamentary consultation and democratic accountability. She explores the dangers of charismatic leadership and its impact on governance. Baron advocates for the Reform Act, highlighting its potential to empower MPs in holding leaders accountable. The conversation underscores the need for political adaptability within the Liberal Party to enhance democratic integrity in Canada.
May 22, 2025 • 18min
The watering down of the term genocide
Alan Kessel, a former Canadian deputy high commissioner to the UK and a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, discusses the misuse of the term 'genocide' in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He argues against labeling Israel's actions as genocide while drawing parallels with the Ukraine conflict. Kessel also examines Canada's nuanced relationship with Israel, highlighting the divide between public service and political leadership views. Additionally, he addresses the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada and the importance of national identity in combating hate.
6 snips
May 22, 2025 • 19min
David Frum: Foreign policy chaos in Canada and the U.S.
In this engaging conversation, leading author and journalist David Frum discusses the rise of antisemitism in Canada and the U.S., sparked by a tragic event in Washington, D.C. He critiques the Trump administration's fixation on South Africa, arguing it distracts from critical domestic issues. Frum also emphasizes the need for Canada to reassess its foreign policy priorities in the face of global conflict. Additionally, he sheds light on the chaotic governance style in today's White House, contrasting it with more structured past administrations.
May 22, 2025 • 12min
The carbon tax is gone—now what?
Trevor Tombe, a Professor of Economics at the University of Calgary and a Hub contributor, dives into the implications of removing the carbon tax. He highlights the immediate benefits for consumers and links this removal to recent declines in inflation. Tombe discusses how the carbon tax's impact on inflation has been minimal compared to global energy prices and housing issues. He also explores the potential effects of this policy change as a climate strategy, emphasizing the need for fair alternatives.
May 22, 2025 • 11min
How the poor are paying for ‘Elbows Up’
Adam Legge, President of the Business Council of Alberta, engages in a candid discussion about the economic challenges facing Canada's impoverished families. He sheds light on how retaliatory tariffs are pushing food prices up, disproportionately affecting low-income households. The conversation also explores the implications of an aging population on the country's fiscal landscape, spotlighting Ontario's massive budget deficit. Legge calls for transparency in government spending and urges policies that foster fairness across generations amidst rising healthcare costs.
May 22, 2025 • 37min
Was ‘Elbows Up’ just media hype?
The discussion dives into whether the media has exaggerated the 'Elbows Up' narrative. It critiques how reporting on Canada's tariffs has lacked depth, leaving the public in the dark about significant financial impacts. The role of public broadcasting and its potential bias is examined, highlighting the need for balanced coverage to combat political polarization. Lastly, the trend of U.S. academics moving to Canada is dissected, challenging the simplistic view that these migrations are merely reactions to political oppression.
