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
Jun 12, 2025 • 28min
Is Canada missing an open goal on AI development?
Kevin Chan, Senior Director of Global Policy Campaign Strategies at Meta and an expert in AI, discusses Canada's legacy in AI research and its commercialization challenges. He highlights the strategic advantage of open-source models like Meta’s Llama, particularly for middle economies. Chan shares insights on real-world applications of AI in healthcare, the geopolitical implications of the U.S.-China AI race, and offers advice for Canada's new minister of AI, emphasizing the importance of openness and collaboration in driving innovation.
Jun 12, 2025 • 38min
Understanding Alberta's 'grand ambition'
Heather Exner-Pirot, Director of Energy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, and Katie Kachur, VP with the Canadian Propane Association, dive into Alberta's energy ambitions. They discuss Alberta’s identity as a potential energy superpower and the frustrations stemming from federal indifference. The conversation explores innovation in the oil sands, the importance of collaboration with Indigenous communities, and the need for revised energy policies. Both guests share their passion for Alberta's energy vision and its implications for Canada's future.
Jun 12, 2025 • 12min
What does a higher NATO spending target mean for Canada?
Trevor Tombe, a Professor of Economics at the University of Calgary, dives into what a higher NATO military spending target could mean for Canada. He discusses the implications of Canada's commitment to increase NATO spending to 2% of GDP and what a possible rise to 5% might entail. Tombe sheds light on potential budgetary shifts, the impact on public finances, and how military spending could shape Canada's regional identities amid geopolitical changes. His insights on Alberta's evolving role also add depth to the conversation.
Jun 11, 2025 • 16min
China's charm offensive comes to Canada
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. This episode features David Mulroney, Canada's former ambassador to China. He discusses the Carney government opening up lines of communication with Beijing, the potential security threat China poses, its coercive economic pressure tactics, as well as the risks associated with the increasingly positive reputation China is garnering among Canadians. He also shares what to look out for in conversations about China at the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta. The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get all our best content: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Watch a video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanada Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS: Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer Alisha Rao - Sound Editor Harrison Lowman - Host
Jun 11, 2025 • 16min
Four myths (and one truth) about the 2025 federal election
Hub Headlines features audio versions of the best commentaries and analysis published daily in The Hub. Enjoy listening to original and provocative takes on the issues that matter while you are on the go. 0:18 - Four myths (and one truth) about the 2025 federal election, by David Coletto 9:40 - Don't learn the wrong lessons from the last election, Conservatives, by Daniel Dufort This program is narrated by automated voices. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get all our best content: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Watch The Hub on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanada Get a FREE 3-month trial membership for our premium podcast content: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS: Alisha Rao – Producer & Editor Ashiqul – Sound Editor To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, email support@thehub.ca
Jun 10, 2025 • 14min
Is the rest of Canada ready to listen to Alberta?
Alberta's unique spirit as a land of opportunity is explored, challenging common stereotypes and advocating for a more inclusive understanding of its role in Canada. The podcast also dives into modern cinema, critiquing morally dubious characters that reflect society's technological obsession. Additionally, it highlights the contrasting uses of technology across cultures, urging a reevaluation of our reliance on tech and calling for accountability from its creators.
7 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 14min
The future of the Canadian Armed Forces under Carney
Andrew Leslie, a retired Lieutenant-General from the Canadian Forces and former Liberal MP, shares insights on the future of Canada's military. He discusses the urgent need for increased defense spending to meet NATO's demands. Leslie highlights critical challenges in military procurement and emphasizes the shift towards diversifying sources for defense equipment. He also addresses the importance of rebuilding morale and recruitment within the Canadian Armed Forces and stresses the necessity for government support to strengthen military capabilities.
Jun 9, 2025 • 25min
Ben Mulroney on media and politics in Carney's Canada
Ben Mulroney, a nationally syndicated radio host, shares his insights with publisher Rudyard Griffiths on the shifting landscape of Canadian politics. He discusses Mark Carney's promises and the political tactics that resonated with older voters. Delving into regional divides, Mulroney highlights tensions between Western Canada and the rest of the country. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of media, especially podcasts, in shaping public opinion and the joys of radio broadcasting.
Jun 9, 2025 • 12min
The big risk in the Liberals' Canada Day deadline to fix interprovincial trade
Ryan Manucha, a scholar of interprovincial trade law, dives into the risks posed by the Liberals' Canada Day deadline for reforming trade barriers. He outlines the potential decline in momentum post-deadline and stresses the need for ongoing engagement. Manucha tackles historical complexities in Canada’s trade laws and highlights how federal inaction can stifle economic growth, especially in emerging industries like cannabis. He also critiques political branding, shedding light on the stark differences between party names and their actual policies.
8 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 17min
Steel tariffs, sinking exports, and a frozen housing market
Tariffs on steel and aluminum from the U.S. are shaking up Canada's economy, prompting tough discussions on retaliation strategies. The Canadian real estate market faces a crisis with record low home sales and plummeting prices amid soaring interest rates. Meanwhile, private broadcasters grapple with dwindling television revenues and stagnant radio growth, painting a stark picture of the country's economic landscape.
