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
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.
May 21, 2025 • 15min
Alberta's independence depends on Washington, not Ottawa
Andy Crooks, chair of the Canadian Constitution Foundation and former head of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, dives into Alberta's quest for independence. He highlights how Alberta's political aspirations are intricately tied to U.S. support, discussing the potential impact of American leaders on local autonomy. The conversation shifts to Alberta's unique identity and the need for fair acknowledgment from Ottawa. Crooks also envisions the future implications of Alberta's independence movement and international reactions, urging continued dialogue on this pressing issue.
May 21, 2025 • 12min
Mark Carney's crisis that wasn't
The discussion delves into Mark Carney's narrative of crisis versus the positive strides in Canada's economy. It questions how persistent crisis framing shapes policy decisions. The podcast also tackles the economic challenges Canada faces and emphasizes the need for bold investments. Shifting to sports, the Edmonton Oilers emerge as the last Canadian Stanley Cup contender, raising debates on roster disparities and taxation's effects on player performance. Tune in for sharp insights on politics and hockey!
May 20, 2025 • 19min
Why Carney's warning to Israel will cause more harm than good
Noah Shack, the interim president of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, dives deep into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He discusses a recent international call for Israel to halt military actions and emphasizes the importance of accountability from both Israel and Hamas. Shack advocates for a two-state solution and highlights the need for collaboration between Israelis and Palestinians. He also addresses the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada related to foreign policy and the challenges of providing humanitarian aid without enabling Hamas.
May 20, 2025 • 11min
Canada beats the U.S. in quality of life — but for how long?
Alicia Planincic, Director of Policy & Economics at the Business Council of Alberta, dives into the intriguing comparisons between Canada and the U.S. She reveals that Canada often leads in health, education, and social well-being, despite some alarming declines. However, Alicia points out that Canadians face economic challenges, especially in income growth, raising questions on financial stability. The discussion delves into the delicate balance Canada must maintain between enhancing economic performance and preserving its quality of life achievements.
May 20, 2025 • 33min
Debbie Gamble on the future of digital payments in Canada
Debbie Gamble is the Group Head and Chief Strategy Officer at Interac, deeply involved in shaping Canada's payment landscape. She shares insights on the evolution of Canada's payment system, highlighting Interac’s critical role in fraud prevention and supporting local businesses. The conversation delves into the future of real-time payments, comparing Canada’s progress to other nations. Gamble emphasizes the need for enhanced digital infrastructure to boost the economy while encouraging collaboration in fintech to navigate challenges.
