Jan Wong, a seasoned journalist and author known for her sharp insights on political and social issues, joins the discussion to unravel the chaotic web of Trump's steel and aluminum tariffs. She scrutinizes whether there's a master plan behind his bombastic policies and highlights the consequences for both the U.S. and Canada. The conversation also touches on the mysterious inquiry into foreign meddling in elections, providing a critical look at the intertwined political landscapes of the two nations.

Michael Wernick, a former top public servant and current Jaroslowski Chair at the University of Ottawa, shares insights on Canada's expanding public sector. He questions if hiring 110,000 workers over the past decade has improved efficiency. Sam Konnert updates listeners on the political landscape, including the implications of Trump’s steel tariffs. They also discuss the pressing need for a fentanyl czar and the controversial appointment of Berger Datani to the Canadian Human Rights Commission, highlighting major issues facing Canada's governance.

Explore the vibrant zine culture of the 80s and 90s, where homemade pamphlets gave a voice to punks and queers. Hear about the challenges of ideological purity that led to the decline of a beloved zine. Discover how zines fostered community and individuality among non-conformists while navigating censorship. Dive into the evolution of underground zines as platforms for challenging norms around sexuality and identity. Celebrate the legacy of independent media, showcasing the importance of voices that often go unseen.

In this discussion, Jen St Denis, a political reporter from The Tyee, offers valuable insights on Canadian politics. She highlights how Pierre Poilievre's political presence seems overshadowed by recent speeches rallying national unity. The conversation dives into the rise of patriotism and its influence on political performance, as well as the implications of supporting local businesses amidst U.S. tariffs. With shifting narratives around Poilievre, the impact of American politics on Canada's dynamics also comes into play, reflecting broader societal sentiments.

Jen St. Denis, a seasoned reporter for The Tyee, joins the discussion with insights on Canada’s swirling trade tensions with the U.S. She challenges the frenzied media coverage of Trump's tariff threats, advocating for a more thoughtful journalism approach. The conversation delves into Canada’s controversial appointment of a fentanyl czar, questioning its effectiveness amid the ongoing crisis. St. Denis emphasizes the need for investigative reporting and responsible media practices, highlighting the impact of political theatre on public perception.

Adam Brierley, Master Distiller and General Manager at SFR Distillery in Ottawa, shares his insights on how U.S. tariffs are affecting Canadian businesses. He discusses the potential shift in consumer preferences toward local products as a result of these trade tensions. Brierley also emphasizes the challenges his distillery faces, including sourcing local ingredients and navigating a competitive market. The conversation highlights the resilience of small businesses amidst political uncertainty and the importance of supporting homegrown entrepreneurs.

Cory Doctorow, a renowned novelist and digital rights activist, shares a radical strategy for Canada to counter Trump's trade tariffs. Instead of retaliatory tariffs, he proposes a 'hack'—leveraging the right to repair to reclaim billions from the U.S. economy. They discuss the limitations of current ownership models, the potential of jailbreaking tech products, and how legislative changes could foster local innovation. Doctorow emphasizes empowering consumers to take control of their purchases while critiquing the grip of big tech on market choices.

In this discussion, Dale Smith, a freelance journalist and political columnist specializing in LGBTQ issues, analyzes Pierre Poilievre's troubling denial of transgender existence. He highlights the severe implications this rhetoric has on trans rights in Canada, drawing parallels to U.S. political strategies. The conversation delves into the challenges journalists face in addressing narrow views on gender identity and the risks of regressive policies arising from political ignorance. Additionally, they critique sensationalist media coverage that misrepresents transgender narratives.

Dale Smith, a freelance journalist and national political columnist for LGBTQ news site Extra, joins to dissect Doug Ford's recent media blitz as he seeks a new mandate from Ontarians. Dale argues that Ford's narrative is misguided and explores the problematic intertwining of provincial and federal politics. The discussion critiques Ford's track record on employment and healthcare, raising alarms about the upcoming election. Plus, they delve into broader issues like military recruitment challenges and the impact of media on political perceptions.

Max Fawcett, a sharp political columnist, and Mélanie Richer, a former NDP strategist, dive into Jagmeet Singh's challenges following Justin Trudeau's resignation. They discuss the NDP's struggle to connect with voters and the party's identity crisis amid fierce competition. Fawcett and Richer critique the party's missed opportunities, media strategies, and evolving messaging, highlighting the disconnect with blue-collar Canadians. Their analysis paints a vivid picture of the shifting political landscape and potential paths forward for the NDP.