The Munk Debates Podcast

On the first episode of our new series on politics and culture, Washington Post columnist Megan McArdle and Vox senior correspondent Zack Beachamp debate Elon Musk's embrace of far-right political parties, Trump's totalitarian impulses, and the end to DEI in government agencies.   The host of this Munk Dialogue is Rudyard Griffiths To support civil and substantive debate on the big questions of the day, consider becoming a Munk Member at https://munkdebates.com/membership Members receive access to our 15+ year library of great debates in HD video, a free Munk Debates book, and ticketing privileges at our live events. This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue - https://munkdebates.com/ Executive Producer: Ricki Gurwitz Editor: Kieran Lynch

Friday Focus provides listeners with a focused, half-hour masterclass on the big issues, events and trends driving the news and current events. The show features Janice Gross Stein, the founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and bestselling author, in conversation with Rudyard Griffiths, Chair and moderator of the Munk Debates. The following is a sample of the Munk Debates’ weekly current affairs podcast, Friday Focus. Rudyard and Janice start the show with the big international news of the week: A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that will suspend fighting and see the release of 33 Israeli hostages. Why now? and can it last? Rudyard and Janice then turn to the devastating LA fires and the astronomical cost of rebuilding without adequate insurance coverage. In Washington, Pete Hegseth breezed through US senate hearings to run the US Department of Defense. How does a man with no experience and a checkered past assume one of the most important and senior roles in government? Rudyard and Janice wrap up the show by anticipating what is to come on Monday when Trump takes office. Will his executive orders include a significant hike on tariffs for Canadian goods being exported into the US? To access full-length editions of the Friday Focus podcast consider becoming a donor to the Munk Debates for as little as $25 annually, or $.50 per episode. Canadian donors receive a charitable tax receipt. This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue. More information at www.munkdebates.com.

If you're a new parent, you've probably heard the term 'gentle parenting'. It's the latest trend that has taken hold among millennials who reject the authoritative principles under which they themselves were raised. This new, softer approach discourages consequences and punishments for bad behaviour in favour of positive reinforcement and a focus on the feelings and emotions which are driving bad behaviour. Proponents of gentle parenting argue that this approach is the most effective way to raise kids: emotionally-focused parenting raises calmer, happier children with increased self-esteem, emotional regulation, more empathy, and stronger parent-child relationships. Furthermore, research shows that kids who are frequently punished don't end up being better behaved. Gentle parenting’s critics argue that this approach relies on emotion as a substitute for authority and does not prepare kids for the real world where actions have consequences. Too much emotional self-awareness in childhood has resulted in high rates of anxiety and depression in young adults who cannot put aside emotions in order to carry out basic daily tasks.  Arguing in favour of the resolution is Sarah Ockwell Smith. Sarah is a well known parenting expert and popular childcare author, who is widely recognized as being the founder of the gentle parenting movement. Arguing against the resolution is Anna Lussenburg, a professional child care and family intervention specialist. The host of this Munk Debates podcast episode is Ricki Gurwitz.   To support civil and substantive debate on the big questions of the day, consider becoming a Munk Member at https://munkdebates.com/membership Members receive access to our 15+ year library of great debates in HD video, a free Munk Debates book, newsletter and ticketing privileges at our live events. This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue - https://munkdebates.com/ Senior Producer: Ricki Gurwitz Editor: Kieran Lynch

This week’s discussion dives into a crucial ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, pondering its timing and longevity. The devastating LA fires highlight the staggering costs of rebuilding without sufficient insurance. Insights into the appointment of Pete Hegseth to the Department of Defense raise questions about his qualifications. Anticipation builds around Trump's upcoming policies, particularly regarding trade tariffs with Canada, emphasizing the geopolitical shifts that may arise under his administration.

Dive into the provocative implications of Trump's remarks about territorial expansion concerning Greenland and Panama. The discussion raises concerns about economic stability and the consequences for U.S.-Canada relations. Explore how Trump's nationalistic rhetoric could reshape trade policies affecting Canada. As Trudeau plans his departure, questions arise about the Liberal leadership dynamics amidst rising tensions and the need for a united national identity. What does this mean for navigating security and economic interests in North America?

Delve into the complexities of organizing contentious debates, including challenges faced around anti-Zionism. Explore the innovative new podcast format with recurring guests discussing U.S. politics, culture, and geopolitics. Reflect on the erosion of trust in experts since the Great Recession and its societal implications. Discover the significance of fostering open dialogue and empathy in an increasingly polarized world. Exciting plans for 2025 promise a revamped experience and deeper community engagement.

The conversation dives into the turbulent political landscape in Canada, highlighting Justin Trudeau's waning support and potential leadership changes. Speculation arises about how proroguing Parliament could fuel a leadership race. In a gripping second half, the hosts analyze the complexities of lone wolf terrorist attacks, discussing the challenges in safeguarding innocent lives from such unpredictable violence. Provocative questions about security and community engagement emerge, leaving listeners pondering the implications for society.

The discussion kicks off with a look at holiday traditions, especially the festive significance of Hanukkah. From there, the conversation shifts to the intriguing interplay between culinary techniques and Canadian politics. Recent developments reveal a looming leadership crisis in the Liberal Party, coupled with concerns about the Prime Minister’s future. With potential changes on the horizon, the hosts dive into how these shifts might impact governance and border security. The conversation encourages listeners to ponder the future political landscape.

Timothy Noah, a staff writer at The New Republic, champions Joe Biden's presidency as transformative, highlighting major achievements like the infrastructure program and healthcare expansion. In contrast, Gil Troy, a presidential historian at McGill University, critiques Biden's leadership amid inflation and foreign policy missteps. The debate delves into Biden's controversial pardons, his foreign policy challenges, and the contrasting perspectives on whether history will ultimately view him favorably. Engaging insights make for a captivating discussion.

In a gripping discussion, the hosts delve into a political crisis in Canada sparked by the unexpected resignation of the finance minister. They analyze the potential fallout for Prime Minister Trudeau and the looming challenges of a leadership vacuum. The conversation shifts to the provocative notion of Canada as America's 51st state, prompted by a joke from Donald Trump. Is there more to this jest than meets the eye? The hosts consider the implications for Canadian sovereignty and the urgent need for electoral action amidst rising U.S. tensions.