CANADALAND

Stuart Benson, a political reporter for The Hill Times, provides sharp insights into the recent shock waves shaking Canadian politics. He discusses Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's abrupt resignation and its immediate fallout on Justin Trudeau's administration. The conversation covers the potential cabinet reshuffles and emerging leadership challenges within the Liberal Party. Additionally, they tackle the implications of political instability on mental health support initiatives for youth, highlighting the intersection of governance and social welfare.

Ilana Gordon, a reporter connected to a family involved in the black market baby trade, and Adam Segal, a journalist with nearly a decade of experience covering this scandal, share haunting tales of Montreal's 1950s baby smuggling ring. They reveal the personal impact of DNA discoveries that link them to this dark chapter of history. The conversation explores the tragic intersections of family secrets, courtroom drama, and systemic abuses in Quebec's child welfare, shedding light on the haunting realities behind the pursuit of motherhood.

San Grewal, founder of The Pointer and a keen observer of Canadian politics, joins the discussion on the implications of Trudeau's Arctic policy. They delve into how Canada’s sovereignty may be sacrificed for strategic diplomacy with Trump. The conversation covers shifting Arctic strategies, the geopolitical stakes with China and Russia, and the environmental concerns raised by scientists. Grewal also critiques the government's climate initiatives, highlighting contradictions in policy as Canada navigates complex international relationships.

Testifying in Parliament last week, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown revealed how India affected his 2022 bid to lead the Conservative Party of Canada. But was he a victim of foreign interference, as reported by CBC/Radio-Canada, or a willing conduit for Indian interests? San Grewal of The Pointer joins to explain how (and why) CBC got spun. Note: Jaskaran Sandhu did not reply to our request for comment in advance of publishing this episode. UPDATE (12/11/24): after publication, Jaskaran Sandhu responded to Canadaland’s request for comment with the following: “I did not bring, place, plant, or spin this foreign interference story to the CBC. I wish I was that powerful. But it is kind of nice knowing those like San think I am.” Host: Jesse BrownCredits: James Nicholson (Producer), Caleb Thompson (Post Production), Lucie Laumonier (Fact Checking), max collins (Director of Audio), Jesse Brown (Editor)Guest: San Grewal Further Reading on Our Website Sponsors: CAMH: CAMH is building better mental health care for everyone to ensure no one is left behind. Visit camh.ca/canadaland to make a donation.AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. Check out DrinkAG1.com/canadaland to get this offer! oxio: Head over to canadaland.oxio.ca and use code CANADALAND for your first month free! If you value this podcast, Support us! You’ll get premium access to all our shows ad free, including early releases and bonus content. You’ll also get our exclusive newsletter, discounts on merch at our store, tickets to our live and virtual events, and more than anything, you’ll be a part of the solution to Canada’s journalism crisis, you’ll be keeping our work free and accessible to everybody.   You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this discussion, Jack Gordon, President of the University of Victoria Conservative Club, shares insights on why conservative politics resonate with young Canadian men. He highlights the political gender divide surfacing globally and the role of online culture in shaping these attitudes. Alongside Sam Konnert, Canadaland's Ottawa correspondent, they navigate the challenges of conservative views in progressive university settings. The conversation delves into economic concerns, the allure of conservatism, and political responses in the lead-up to the next Canadian election.

Caryma Sa’d, a Palestinian-Canadian lawyer and citizen journalist, dives into her experiences documenting protests across Canada. She discusses the polarized backlash she receives from both the left and right, revealing the challenges of navigating activism and media scrutiny in divided times. Caryma sheds light on her controversial interactions with figures like Chris Skye from the anti-vaccine movement and examines the complexities of identity in journalism, particularly concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict. Her insights tackle the broader implications of civil liberties and societal polarization.

Dr. Geneviève Bois, President of the Collège québécois des médecins de famille, is a dedicated expert in family medicine and women’s health. She shares her experiences in remote healthcare in Eeyou Istchee and emphasizes the challenges of two-tier medicine in Canada. The discussion touches on the social determinants of health and the emotional complexities faced by medical professionals. Dr. Bois also highlights the ongoing threats to women's reproductive rights, calling for vigilance and continued advocacy in this crucial area.

Harrison Lowman, a legal expert specializing in media law, joins the conversation to dissect the controversial lawsuit against OpenAI by Canada's legacy media. They dive into whether the allegations of copyright infringement hold water and if this move is merely a cash grab. The discussion also navigates the impact of AI on journalism and the precarious position of news outlets facing big tech. Additionally, they touch on Australia's social media restrictions for minors and the ongoing challenges of surveillance in the journalism landscape.

Was the positive tone of Trudeau’s Mar-a-Lago visit overstated by Canadian media? Is Canada going to be the 51st state like Trump said at dinner? Was this the PR win that Trudeau needed? Harrison Lowman joins to break down Trudeau’s big day in Florida.Plus, how was nearly $10 million stolen from one of Canada’s biggest music funder’s bank account? And, do Canadians see the value in CBC?Host: Jesse BrownCredits: Sam Konnert (Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), max collins (Director of Audio), Jesse Brown (Editor)Guest: Harrison Lowman Further reading: Inside Trudeau’s Mar-a-Lago dinner with Trump – and how it all went down | Globe and MailTrump's quip about Canada becoming 51st state was a joke, says minister who was there | CBC$9.8M stolen from FACTOR bank account, Canadian provider of music grants alleges | CBCPierre Poilievre wants to defund the CBC. Here’s what Canadians think of that | Toronto Star Sponsors: Douglas, Squarespace, Ecojustice, oxio, Article, Athletic Greens, BetterHelp, Canva, Peloton If you value this podcast, Support us! You’ll get premium access to all our shows ad free, including early releases and bonus content. You’ll also get our exclusive newsletter, discounts on merch at our store, tickets to our live and virtual events, and more than anything, you’ll be a part of the solution to Canada’s journalism crisis, you’ll be keeping our work free and accessible to everybody.   You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vipal Monga, the Wall Street Journal's Canada correspondent and expert on US-Canada relations, discusses the looming threat from Donald Trump regarding tariffs that could devastate Canada's economy. The conversation dives into whether Canadian politicians have learned from past encounters with Trump or are facing him unprepared again. Monga also highlights ongoing tensions in trade dynamics, the implications of a significant lawsuit against opioid manufacturers, and the political intrigue surrounding Canada's Conservative leadership.