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 news cycle never slows down and neither does Hub Hits. Each day we provide you with quick hits on topical stories, big issues and important voices appearing in The Hub.
Every week, editor-at-large Sean Speer is joined by David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, and Amanda Galbraith, principal at Oyster Group, to dig into the drama and strategy of Canadian politics. Topics range from the issues dominating headlines, the communications battles behind the scenes, to the trends shaping parties, leaders, and voters. Some weeks, they'll focus on the hot story in Ottawa.
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 news cycle never slows down and neither does Hub Hits. Each day we provide you with quick hits on topical stories, big issues and important voices appearing in The Hub.
Every week, editor-at-large Sean Speer is joined by David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, and Amanda Galbraith, principal at Oyster Group, to dig into the drama and strategy of Canadian politics. Topics range from the issues dominating headlines, the communications battles behind the scenes, to the trends shaping parties, leaders, and voters. Some weeks, they'll focus on the hot story in Ottawa.
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
Jul 28, 2025 • 17min
How will Europe's trade deal impact Trump's negotiations with Canada?
Joseph Steinberg, a professor of economics at the University of Toronto, dives into the potential fallout if Canada doesn't strike a trade deal with the U.S. by the looming August deadline. He examines the fiscal crisis that could arise from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and discusses the complexities of tariffs and their implications for U.S.-Canada relations. Steinberg also unpacks how consumer sentiment and political perceptions intertwine with tariffs, and he offers insights into the delayed effects on inflation caused by Trump's trade policies.
Jul 28, 2025 • 56min
Andrew Coyne on why Canada may not be a democracy
Andrew Coyne, a prominent columnist for The Globe and Mail and author of 'The Crisis of Canadian Democracy,' dives deep into Canada’s democratic landscape. He critiques the overwhelming power of the Prime Minister's Office and the decreasing influence of Members of Parliament. Coyne discusses the accountability issues in party leadership and how they relate to political engagement. He also addresses the urgent housing crisis while advocating for essential reforms to make Canadian democracy more representative and inclusive. A thought-provoking listen!
Jul 28, 2025 • 7min
The first job is disappearing—young Canadians deserve better
The podcast dives into the troubling decline of entry-level jobs for young Canadians, detailing how federal labor policies are contributing to unemployment. It highlights the struggle teens face in Ontario, with nearly 25% unable to find work, even as certain industries thrive. The discussion reveals how rising minimum wage laws and strict hiring regulations create hurdles for inexperienced workers. The hosts argue that young Canadians deserve better opportunities to launch their careers.
Jul 25, 2025 • 21min
Let's be blunt: Trump's trade talks are a shakedown
The hosts dive into the complex trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. as a crucial deadline approaches. They analyze Trump's tactics, revealing how he leverages trade deals for political gain rather than economic benefit. The discussion also touches on Canada's response to these shifting dynamics, the impact of tariffs on exports, and the broader implications for international relations. Plus, they explore podcasting's rise as a more authentic voice in culture and politics, surpassing traditional media.
Jul 25, 2025 • 17min
Why Ottawa's top-mandate EV mandate is bad policy
Brian Kingston, President and CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association, shares insights on Canada's ambitious goal for 100% electric vehicle sales by 2035. He highlights the disconnect between government mandates and market demand, pointing out the rigid policies may hinder progress. Kingston discusses the impact of differing regulations between Canada and the U.S. on the automotive supply chain, stressing the need for policy alignment. The conversation also navigates the importance of keeping consumer needs in focus while pursuing electrification goals.
Jul 25, 2025 • 16min
Andrew Coyne on why Canadians shouldn't care if they are different from Americans
Andrew Coyne, a Globe and Mail columnist, reflects on Canada’s national identity, inspired by George Grant's Lament for a Nation. He argues against cultural protectionism and American influence, advocating for a proud, civic-minded Canadian nationalism based on shared values. Coyne discusses Canada's urgent housing crisis, emphasizing the need for new homes and critiquing Canadian content regulations. He highlights how unity stems from shared beliefs, noting Canada’s transformation and increasing diversity since the 1960s.
Jul 25, 2025 • 11min
The Hockey Canada trial verdict doesn't tell the whole story
Joanna Baron, Executive Director of the Canadian Constitution Foundation and commentator on legal issues, discusses the recent Hockey Canada trial verdict. She sheds light on the complexities of trauma responses, challenging the misconceptions of consent that emerged during the trial. Joanna critiques the legal system's high standards of proof, emphasizing how they can fail to capture the emotional truths of assault victims. Additionally, she delves into the cultural dynamics surrounding consent and intoxication, urging a deeper understanding of these critical issues.
Jul 24, 2025 • 15min
What are the opportunities and risks with AI?
Samuel Hammond, Chief Economist at the Foundation for American Innovation, shares insights on the contrasting AI strategies of the Trump and Biden administrations. He dives into the geopolitical implications of AI regulation and its effects on free speech and information consumption. Hammond emphasizes the balance needed between leveraging AI's potential and addressing its risks. The discussion also touches on the U.S.-China AI race and the future of artificial intelligence, including advancements in reasoning models and the impact on traditional jobs.
Jul 24, 2025 • 20min
David Frum: Epstein, Trump's tariff threats against Canada, and Canadian pessimism
Join David Frum, a leading author and journalist, as he explores some of today's hottest topics. He dives into the intricate ties between Trump and Epstein, revealing political implications of Trump's tariff threats against Canada. Frum shares his observations of growing pessimism across Canada, discussing the pressing housing crisis and diplomatic tensions with the U.S. He also scrutinizes the Gaza conflict, emphasizing the need for a strong governmental response to civic disturbances. This engaging conversation offers insightful perspectives on urgent contemporary issues.
Jul 24, 2025 • 41min
What would it take for an independent Alberta to join Canada today?
Gary Mar, President of the Canada West Foundation and a former Alberta cabinet minister, teams up with Jared Wesley, a political science professor specializing in Alberta's political culture. They discuss Alberta's hypothetical independence from Canada and the complex negotiations that would follow, from treaty rewrites with Indigenous peoples to geopolitical challenges. They also explore the emotional impact of referendums, Alberta's quest for respect within Confederation, and the balancing act of maintaining its identity amid growing separatist sentiments.
