The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

In this discussion, Dr. Janice Stein, director of the Munk School at the University of Toronto and an expert in international relations, dives into the shifting geopolitical landscape surrounding Greenland and NATO. She explains how U.S. coercion over Greenland could threaten NATO cohesion and provoke serious repercussions for Denmark. Dr. Stein also emphasizes Canada's urgent need for Arctic infrastructure to safeguard its sovereignty and explores the implications of Trudeau's recent trip to China on trade and global partnerships.

Mark Carney's recent trip to China raises questions about the nature of Canada's deals and its posture towards China amidst U.S. pressures. The panel dives into the implications of Quebec Premier's unexpected resignation and its potential impact on provincial politics and referendum dynamics. They also discuss security measures related to surveillance during the China visit. As tensions shift within the Conservative party, the discussion highlights Pierre Poilievre's strategic maneuvers. Lastly, the modest Canadian role in Greenland is examined.

A fascinating dive into journalism reveals the challenges and joys of the trade. Peter shares personal stories, from building his cabin to his unwavering commitment to Canadian media. He tackles the importance of sovereignty and reflects on evocative moments in Canadian history, like the 1972 hockey series. The Random Ranter delivers a fiery critique of Donald Trump, proposing bold measures against him. With insights on political civility and memorable books, this conversation is both engaging and thought-provoking.

In this edition, explore why daydreaming trumps doom scrolling for mental wellness. Discover shocking insights from a Stanford study predicting health risks using AI. Learn about the rising appeal of second passports and the complexities involved in securing dual citizenship. Plus, hear about the puzzling trend of banished words, like the infamous '6-7.' Finally, get the scoop on airline safety measures ensuring pilots stay sober. It’s a mix of intriguing stories and practical advice!

Rob Russo, a Correspondent for The Economist, and Althia Raj, a Political reporter for the Toronto Star, dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney's pivotal trip to China. They explore whether this visit signifies a much-needed reset in Canada-China relations. The duo discusses potential trade-offs involving canola and electric vehicles, as well as how recent U.S. policy shifts are influencing Canadian negotiations. Their insights reveal the complex dynamics at play between economic interests and diplomatic values.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Janice Stein, Director of the Munk School at the University of Toronto and renowned foreign policy expert, shares her insights on the covert complexities behind U.S. actions in Venezuela. She highlights how intelligence operations bypassed Maduro's defenses and warns Canadians about the far-reaching implications of disinformation. The conversation also touches on U.S. interests in Greenland's resources, the evolving NATO dynamics under Trump, and the massive protests in Iran that could shape the region's future.

The panel dives into Canada's concerns about US actions in Venezuela and Trump's aggressive rhetoric towards neighbors. They discuss the potential destabilization of NATO if territories like Greenland are seized. The importance of a strategic, diplomatic response from Canada is emphasized, alongside the risks of foreign interference in provincial referendums. As tensions rise, the dynamics of Canada-China relations are examined, with a focus on balancing values and economic interests. Ultimately, the conversation grapples with the overshadowing theme of despair prevailing over hope.

Listeners share bold predictions for 2026, covering everything from economic shifts in Canada to potential political upheavals in the U.S. The impact of AI and tech on society raises questions about who will truly benefit. Warnings of civil unrest and geopolitical tensions, including threats towards Greenland, spark concern. Meanwhile, some hope for cultural movements promoting peace amid uncertainty. The whimsical predictions from fans lighten the mood, touching on sports and local issues as the show wraps up with a reflection on the listener sentiment.

Discover how to protect your phone data from customs searches at U.S. borders. Learn about the surprising legality of these searches and the risks posed by advanced forensic techniques. Peter shares essential tips for safeguarding your information, including using burner phones and powering down devices. Delve into the debate over the decline of passport stamps and the curious case of AI mishaps with vending machines. Finally, explore the rising trend of luxury dining that showcases extravagant dishes, shedding light on today's consumption culture.

In a riveting discussion, political analyst Jerry Butts and former cabinet minister James Moore tackle the global affordability crisis. They explore the complex nature of affordability across different sectors, particularly housing, and the challenges posed by zoning laws and NIMBYism. The duo emphasizes the need for long-term solutions like boosting competition, rather than short-term political fixes that could have lasting negative impacts. With insights on how younger Canadians can navigate these challenges, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone concerned about economic equity.