The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

Dr. Janice Stein, an expert in international relations and foreign policy, dissects the U.S. military's strong positioning near Venezuela. She questions whether this is a genuine operation or merely a strategic distraction. The conversation also highlights the shifting power dynamics and how historical context shapes today’s geopolitics. Additional topics include the implications of U.S.-Venezuela relations under Maduro and rising tensions that could lead to conflict, especially with the backdrop of geopolitical strategy involving countries like China.

Canadians are shifting their focus to pressing economic issues like inflation and housing affordability ahead of the federal budget. The complexities of budget planning unfold, with discussions on austerity measures and minority government challenges. Insights on political leadership highlight the influence of figures like Mark Carney amidst climate change considerations. U.S.-Canada trade dynamics reveal the nuanced impact of tariffs and identity politics. Meanwhile, the NDP is seeking voter connection through dynamic leadership. The chat wraps up with playful banter about nostalgic treasures.

Listeners reflect on the summer of 2025, sharing thoughts on environmental challenges and cultural shifts. The rise of Artificial Intelligence sparks lively debate: is it a blessing or a curse? Audiences express concerns about job displacement and corporate greed amid changing political landscapes in Canada and the U.S. Alberta's separatism emerges as a hot topic, with discussions on unity and American influence. The Random Ranter delivers engaging insights that challenge conventional thinking and encourage deeper conversations.

The host introduces a fresh format that highlights intriguing news and commentary. Exploring the trend of 'doom scrolling,' they discuss its mental health effects and the rise of 'hope scrolling' for a positive outlook. A segment on tech threats reveals alarming predictions about AI's future impact. Listeners are captivated by the inspiring story of 92-year-old sprinter Emma Maria Mazinga defying age with her record-breaking feats. The speaker invites audience engagement through upcoming topics and a thought-provoking question of the week.

Gerald Butts, former principal secretary to Justin Trudeau, shares his firsthand experiences negotiating with Donald Trump during the Canada-U.S. trade talks. James Moore, a former cabinet minister under Stephen Harper, provides his perspective on the challenges of political strategies in the Trump era. They discuss Trump's unique negotiation style, combining emotional intelligence with unpredictable outcomes. The insights reveal the delicate balance needed to navigate international negotiations while maintaining national integrity. It's a compelling dive into political intrigue!

Dr. Janice Stein, Director of the Munk School at the University of Toronto and an expert in international relations, joins to discuss Donald Trump's audacious campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize. She analyzes the diplomatic implications of this pursuit, particularly concerning India and Pakistan. The conversation also dives into the recent Alaska summit on Ukraine, addressing the lack of progress and highlighting the shifting global power dynamics involving China and Russia, as well as the escalating complexity of the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

The discussion kicks off with a look at Canada's political climate post-election, where unmet expectations about government action are highlighted. Relationships with the U.S. take center stage, especially around tariffs and their economic implications. The conversation emphasizes the potential of private investment as a catalyst for growth. Public sentiment's influence on politics is dissected, particularly how it affects leadership strategies. As summer fades, the hosts anticipate a shifting political landscape, filled with potential budget challenges and strategic maneuvering.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on May 27th. After the pomp and pageantry of the King's visit, Parliament gets down to work and for a lot of MP's it will be a new experience. How to hit the ground running is the focus of this latest episode of the Moore Butts conversations -- this is #21. Former Conservative cabinet minister James Moore and former principal secretary to a prime minister, Gerald Butts give their thoughts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on November 19th. A lot of things changed in our world on the night of November 5th when Donald Trump won the US Presidency and began his journey back to the White House. What about climate change? Will concerns about it drop off the radar seeing as many in the new administration are climate deniers? Professor Katharine Hayhoe, an atmospheric scientist who teaches at Texas Tech, makes a return to the Bridge to talk about the latest on the climate debate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that last aired on November 26th. Ottawa has been studying whether Canada should purchase up to a dozen submarines to help protect Canada's Arctic. It's a program that would cost dozens of billions of dollars. Is it worth it? What is the history of subs in the Arctic? Who's been there, and who hasn't? The answers may surprise you. Our guest is historian and author, Professor Adam Lajeunesse of ST FX University in Nova Scotia. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.