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The Munk Debates Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jul 15, 2025 • 32min

Munk Dialogue with Andrew Coyne: Canada seeks to diversify its trade partnerships beyond the U.S

In this conversation, Andrew Coyne, a prominent columnist for The Globe and Mail, discusses the challenges Canada faces in trade negotiations with an unpredictable U.S. administration. He examines Trump's recent tariff threats and their implications for Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Coyne explores the idea of diversifying trade by potentially strengthening ties with China and delves into the broader economic impact of U.S. fiscal policies and tariffs, questioning their long-term effectiveness amidst a fragile U.S. economy.
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Jul 11, 2025 • 29min

Friday Focus: Google's AI Overview will devastate small and medium-sized businesses

The discussion dives into Google's upcoming AI-generated search summaries and their potential to decimate website traffic. A staggering 50% drop in clicks could spell disaster for businesses reliant on Google for online visibility. This change threatens to concentrate media sources, sidelining independent voices in news. The hosts also address regulatory challenges and the need for new business models to adapt to the AI transformation. Listeners are encouraged to engage and stay informed as these technological shifts reshape our culture and economy.
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Jul 10, 2025 • 31min

Munk Dialogue with Andrew Coyne: irresponsible tax cuts on both sides of the border

Andrew Coyne, a celebrated columnist at the Globe and Mail, dives into the unpredictable nature of Trump's tariff threats and their implications for U.S.-Canada relations. He discusses how major tax cuts on both sides of the border contribute to mounting national debt. Coyne argues that such fiscal irresponsibility lacks long-term economic vision. He emphasizes the need for substantial tax reforms in Canada to stimulate investment and support entrepreneurship, aiming to improve productivity and address high marginal tax rates.
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Jul 4, 2025 • 23min

Friday Focus: The US turns its back on Ukraine and a sombre American Independence Day

The discussion kicks off with the implications of reduced U.S. military support for Ukraine's struggle against Russian aggression. Concerns arise over the potential fallout of America's shifting priorities, particularly on Independence Day. There's a deep dive into Europe's ability and willingness to step up in Ukraine's defense. The conversation also highlights the historical context of wartime strategies, including the psychological impacts of bombing campaigns. Ultimately, they ponder whether American Exceptionalism can navigate the current tumultuous landscape.
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Jul 3, 2025 • 34min

Munk Dialogue with Andrew Coyne: how do you negotiate with Donald Trump?

Andrew Coyne, a columnist with The Globe and Mail and author of The Crisis of Canadian Democracy, dives into the unpredictable landscape of negotiating with Donald Trump. He discusses the challenges Canada faces, particularly in trade negotiations impacted by Trump’s fluctuating demands. Coyne emphasizes the importance of robust support for Ukraine amidst U.S. policy shifts and warns of the consequences of abandoning democratic allies. Furthermore, he raises critical questions about Canada's defense spending in a world increasingly influenced by authoritarianism.
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Jun 27, 2025 • 19min

Friday Focus: Diplomacy with Iran and a Democratic socialist stuns New York City

The podcast dives into the recent intelligence about Iran's nuclear program, discussing the inoperability of centrifuges and the mystery of relocated enriched uranium. The conversation stresses the necessity of a diplomatic solution to avoid a North Korea-like scenario. The discussion shifts to New York City's mayoral primary where Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani surprisingly defeats Andrew Cuomo, showcasing public dissatisfaction with economic inequality and signaling a desire for change that political elites need to heed.
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Jun 24, 2025 • 26min

Friday Focus special Tuesday edition: a fragile ceasefire takes hold

The podcast delves into the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran initiated by Trump, highlighting the shifting power dynamics at play. It discusses how American involvement reinforces U.S. power in the Middle East while raising questions about the absence of China and Russia. The conversation also touches on Israel's changing security strategies, the economic impacts, and the potential domestic consequences for a weakened Iranian regime. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking look at the evolving geopolitical landscape.
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20 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 32min

Friday Focus Emergency Episode: a game changing moment in the Middle East

In a gripping analysis, the hosts navigate the fallout from U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, pondering if they effectively crippled Iran's uranium enrichment. They delve into historical tensions and speculate on potential Iranian retaliation, stressing the importance of diplomatic channels. The urgent need for strategic negotiations takes center stage, as they explore how to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. Will the U.S. embrace peace efforts, or will tensions spiral? A thought-provoking discussion on a critical moment in regional dynamics.
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Jun 20, 2025 • 37min

Friday Focus: A crisis over nuclear weapons with the most incompetent set of leaders

This discussion dives into the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and the critical challenges surrounding Iran's nuclear program. The hosts examine Trump’s indecision, fearing it exacerbates tensions. They question the efficacy of military action against fortified facilities and explore how personal ambitions influence international diplomacy. The unpredictable nature of leadership decisions adds to the nuclear crisis, highlighting the dire need for diplomatic solutions amidst global ambiguity. Community engagement is also emphasized as vital for navigating these complex issues.
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4 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 29min

Munk Dialogue with Yossi Klein Halevi: why the West must support Israel's war against Iran

In this engaging discussion, Yossi Klein Halevi, an acclaimed American-Israeli author and journalist, elaborates on Israel's ongoing war with Iran. He highlights the profound shift in Israeli sentiment following the October 7th attack, emphasizing a newfound resolve against existential threats. Yossi discusses potential uprisings in Iran and stresses the importance of unwavering Western support for Israel amidst moral complexities. He advocates for clarity in the West’s stance, urging allies not to undermine Israel’s efforts in the region.

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