Front Burner

Joe Weisenthal, co-host of Bloomberg's Odd Lots podcast and an expert in economics, sheds light on the chaos unleashed by Trump's tariffs. He discusses the alarming rise in recession odds and potential job losses, particularly in manufacturing. The conversation dives into the market's volatile reactions, parallels to past crises, and the misalignment between public fears and economic expert opinions. Joe also examines the intricate dynamics of trade policies and their broader implications for the U.S. economy and globalization.

Scott Payne, a former FBI undercover agent, spent nearly two decades infiltrating some of the most dangerous gangs, including neo-Nazi networks. He shares chilling encounters and the psychological toll of living a lie. Listeners dive into a heart-pounding story of a tense showdown at a concrete plant and examine the complexities of dismantling extremist ideologies. Through his eyes, we uncover the dark world he navigated, revealing unsettling truths about violence and the personal cost of exposing hate from within.

Mark Carney, former Prime Minister of Canada, discusses the fallout from Trump's hefty tariffs on foreign automobiles, revealing the uncertainty facing Canada’s auto sector. Joined by CBC's Aaron Wherry, they analyze the political repercussions as Canadian leaders respond to these trade challenges. The conversation also highlights the shifting dynamics in Canada-U.S. relations and the urgent need for a strategic approach to bolster economic resilience and protect sovereignty amidst rising tensions.

Eric Miller, an international trade consultant and president of Rideau Potomac Strategy Group, provides insights into President Trump's sweeping tariffs. He explores the emotional impact on American workers, particularly in steel and agriculture, and analyzes the implications for Canada’s economy. The conversation highlights potential chaos in international trade and the risks of a global recession. Miller also discusses the contrasting effects on countries like Cambodia and Bangladesh versus those in Central America, revealing the complexities of today's shifting trade landscape.

Joseph Stanley, a Yale professor and expert on fascism, discusses his move to Canada due to concerns about rising authoritarianism in the U.S. He links contemporary fascist threats to historical patterns of systemic racism and oppression. Stanley highlights the manipulation of narratives to control the past and the dangers this poses for democracy. He also addresses the troubling impacts of government overreach, especially during Trump's second term, and stresses the importance of defending education and historical truth against ongoing political challenges.

Jordan Leichnitz, a former senior strategist for the NDP, and political commentator David Moscrop dive into the troubling decline of the New Democratic Party. With support plummeting to under 10%, they examine how the party has struggled to convert policy successes into electoral gains. The duo discusses the NDP's historical identity crisis, its reliance on consultants over grassroots activism, and the pressing need to reconnect with working-class voters. As they explore potential future strategies, they question whether the party can reclaim its progressive voice amidst stiff competition.

Rosemary Barton, CBC's chief political correspondent, dives into the whirlwind of Canada's federal election campaign. She discusses Mark Carney's surprising conversation with Donald Trump that shifted rhetoric on trade. Internal strife within the Conservative Party takes center stage, highlighting their struggle to connect with citizens amid polling declines. Barton also explores the dynamics between incumbents and challengers, emphasizing the challenges facing opposition leaders as they navigate economic pressures and public perceptions.

Wired writer Carlton Reid discusses the escalating backlash against Tesla and Elon Musk. He highlights the emergence of grassroots protests, where former customers are voicing their discontent and even torching vehicles. The conversation dives into the troubling declines in Tesla's market position, partly due to quality control issues with products like the Cybertruck. Reid also sheds light on Musk's controversial leadership and the political ramifications facing his various ventures, raising questions about the future of the Tesla brand.

Catherine Cullen, host of CBC's politics podcast House Party, and political commentator Jason Markusoff delve into the tumultuous Canadian election landscape. They discuss allegations of foreign interference affecting both major parties and Pierre Poilievre's controversial refusal to obtain security clearance. The duo also scrutinizes Liberal leader Mark Carney's past corporate ties and examines how Alberta's Danielle Smith and Ontario's Doug Ford may complicate Poilievre's campaign strategy, raising questions about their impact on his electoral success.

Joseph Howley, a Professor of Classics at Columbia University, offers keen insights into the escalating conflict between higher education and political forces. He discusses Trump's $400 million funding withdrawal from Columbia due to alleged anti-Semitism and the implications for academic freedom. The chilling climate of fear among professors echoes McCarthyism, as dissenting voices are stifled. Howley also addresses the university's response to protests linked to the Gaza crisis, highlighting the dangerous impact of political interference.