CANADALAND

Harrison Lowman, the Managing Editor of The Hub, dives into the fiery debate over self-defense in Canadian law, sparked by a recent home invasion case. He discusses the political climate, highlighting how figures like Doug Ford and Pierre Poilievre are shaping perceptions of home safety. The conversation unpacks the complexities of defining 'reasonable' defense responses. Lowman also reflects on urban insecurity post-COVID, revealing the nuanced relationship between crime rates, public sentiment, and policy responses. Historical contexts of safety are also examined, creating a rich backdrop of contemporary challenges.

In this discussion, Harrison Lowman, Managing Editor of The Hub and political analyst, delves into Pierre Poilievre's return to Parliament following his byelection victory. They explore the mixed public perception surrounding Poilievre, touching on the Conservative Party’s tactical approach to upcoming elections. The conversation reveals the tensions in Canadian politics, particularly regarding rivalries and leadership challenges. Lowman also emphasizes the importance of navigating public sentiment while addressing the complexities and narratives shaping political discourse.

Vina Nadjibulla, Vice President of Research and Strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation, shares insights from her 20+ years in international security. She discusses China's tariffs on Canadian canola seeds and warns against falling for geopolitical traps. The conversation dives into Canada’s need to diversify trade beyond the U.S. and China, as well as the growing implications of trade tensions on national security. Listeners also get a glimpse into the complexities of intelligence sharing among allies in a tense global landscape.

Julian Abraham, a dedicated reporter from Canadaland, dives deep into a legendary mystery from the set of Titanic filmed in Nova Scotia. During a wrap party, crew members were thrown into chaos after consuming chowder laced with PCP, which led to a frantic hospital rush. He explores the rumors and theories surrounding this bizarre incident, including allegations of sabotage and curious motivations. With insights into James Cameron's reaction, Abraham brings to light a tantalizing tale that has puzzled the film industry for decades.

Stacy Thomas, a senior journalist at Canadian HR Reporter, dives into pressing labor issues in Canada. The discussion unveils the ominous plan to cut over 57,000 federal jobs by 2028 and the implications for marginalized workers and essential services. They also critique Doug Ford's mandated return to the office, particularly how it impacts younger employees and their work-life balance. The conversation emphasizes the need for equitable workplace practices and challenges traditional corporate cultures that overlook the evolving dynamics of today’s workforce.

Stacy Thomas, a senior journalist at Canadian HR Reporter, dives into the recent Air Canada strike and the media's habitual neglect of labor issues until they escalate. She discusses the eight-month negotiations for flight attendants, primarily women, who historically have been unpaid for essential ground work. Stacy highlights the challenges of wage gaps and the need for better representation of labor concerns in media. The conversation also touches on the evolving leadership within labor unions and the intersection of gender dynamics in the workplace.

Brendon Bernard, a senior economist at Indeed, dives into the alarming rise of youth unemployment in Canada, highlighting how many young people are overqualified yet struggling to find work. He discusses the cultural and psychological impacts of dwindling summer jobs, which traditionally provide joy and independence. Bernard addresses systemic barriers young job seekers face, the exacerbation from foreign worker policies, and the urgent need for society to listen to their concerns as they navigate a challenging job market.

Sahej Singh, the tech-savvy founder of Retter, shares insights on his creation, DOGEAI, a bot that blends advanced AI technologies. He dives into the dual potential of AI in shaping public discourse, discussing how it can both propagate misinformation and champion truth. Singh tackles ethical dilemmas of using bots in politics and the impact they have on online reputations. He also examines AI's role in promoting democracy and enhancing civic engagement, challenging listeners to consider the profound implications of automated narratives.

Join Ronit Novak, founder of The Grain, as she dives into the controversies surrounding TIFF, including the withdrawal of a documentary tied to Hamas and its implications for Canadian media. They discuss the lingering effects of Justin Trudeau's media policies, explore the challenges of funding journalism in the digital age, and the importance of rethinking competition within the industry. Novak also highlights how TikTok is sparking activism, shedding light on societal issues like hate crimes, and the need for innovative approaches in media consumption.

Explore the transformative experiences of young journalists in the industry as past fellows share their personal stories. The discussion highlights the innovative Canadalabs Audio Journalism Fellowship, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced by aspiring reporters. Listeners will also get a sneak peek into the next generation of fellows joining the team soon. Plus, enjoy updates on exciting projects from former fellows and their impact on journalism.