Hub Podcasts

This week’s discussion spotlights the Canadian Prime Minister's bold economic strategies, balancing defense spending with environmental concerns. Trade negotiations with the U.S. and Mexico reveal challenges in the aluminum, steel, and automotive sectors. The podcast also tackles the uncertain future of Canada's oil sector amid tariffs and evolving pipeline projects. Lastly, the legacy of John McCallum is honored, emphasizing how cultural ties influence today’s political landscape.

The hosts dive into Trump's latest tweet halting trade talks with Canada, raising concerns over economic repercussions. They dissect the contentious Digital Services Tax aimed at U.S. tech giants and its potential to strain Canada-U.S. relations. Additionally, they discuss Canadian immigration policy, spotlighting Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's controversial support for a temporary net population decline. The episode is packed with analysis on how these issues intertwine amidst rising economic nationalism.

Ken Ash, a former OECD Director for Trade and Agriculture, shares insights on Canada’s strategic role in the global race for critical minerals. He highlights how China’s dominance threatens supply chains and emphasizes the need for Canada to enhance its processing capabilities. Ash discusses the importance of transparent policies that foster innovation and collaboration within the mining sector. He also advocates for modernizing mining practices to bolster national security and economic resilience while navigating the complexities of current trade dynamics.

Heather Exner-Piro, Director of Energy at the McDonnell-Laurie A. Institute, discusses the future of pipeline construction in Canada. She challenges the notion that new projects are a thing of the past, emphasizing the critical political and economic factors at play. The conversation dives into the balance of Indigenous consent, legislative shifts, and the persistent demand for oil. Exner-Piro advocates for a responsible approach to resource management that harmonizes environmental concerns with Canada's energy needs.

Ann Fitz-Gerald, a leading expert in international security and director at the Balsillie School of International Affairs, dives into Canada's ambitious commitment to spend 5% of GDP on defense by 2035. She analyzes the significance of this shift within NATO and the implications for U.S. interests in Europe. Fitz-Gerald also discusses the potential for dual-use technologies in defense spending and the strategic challenges Canada faces to meet these commitments, including trade-offs that may impact its economy.

Join political insider-turned-historian John Whittaker, author of a book on Calgary Stampede founder George Lane, and Rahim Sajan, co-founder of TEDxYYC, as they dive into Alberta's allure for dreamers. They discuss the province's rich culture of ambition and entrepreneurship, highlighting how its meritocratic values and community spirit attract newcomers. The conversation also tackles the challenges of political uncertainty and the importance of collaboration in maintaining Alberta's vibrant growth.

Sabrina Maddeaux, Director of Communications at Global Public Affairs and a National Magazine Award winner, dives into Canada's immigration policies. She criticizes the Century Initiative, which aims to boost the population significantly by 2100, for ignoring the adverse effects on housing and economic stability. Maddeaux also highlights how the push for mass immigration, often touted as essential for economic growth, misrepresents GDP figures while negatively impacting wages and job opportunities for younger Canadians.

The podcast dives into Canada’s trade retaliation against U.S. imports. It examines the actual economic impact, revealing that affected goods saw a decline while the overall effect on the U.S. economy was minimal. The discussion highlights the limited influence of consumer boycotts in comparison to tariffs imposed by the government. Tune in for thought-provoking insights!

On this special Hub Roundtable episode, publisher Rudyard Griffiths and editor-at-large Sean Speer discuss the newest developments in the Middle East including the ceasefire of the Israel-Iran war, how it disproves the mantra of de-escalation that dominates foreign policy circles, and whether President Donald Trump should potentially win the Nobel Peace Prize. If you liked what you heard in the first half of the program and wish to subscribe to full-length editions of The Roundtable please consider becoming a Hub Hero: https://thehub.ca/join/hero/   Subscribe to The Hub’s podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go:  https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) 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 & Editor Elia Gross and Alisha Rao – Production Assistants Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer - Hosts   To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts email support@thehub.ca    

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.   0:23 - Need to Know: Iran’s no-win situation, including commentaries by Kaveh Sharooz and Andrea Charron   This program is narrated by automated voices. To receive full length editions of Hub Headlines, subscribe now and become a Hub Hero to get access to all of The Hub's paid podcasts and our website Thehub.ca.   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 & Sound Editor   To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, email support@thehub.ca