The Big Story

The ticket resale crisis has left many fans frustrated, especially during Taylor Swift's sold-out shows. Struggling to secure tickets, some turned to third-party sellers, only to face sky-high prices. Discussions focus on the need for better regulations and consumer protections in ticket sales. A petition has emerged, advocating for fairer practices that could benefit both concert-goers and artists. Can the way we buy concert tickets change for the better?

Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition and named Canada's Newsmaker of the Year twice, discusses the shifting dynamics in Canadian politics. He reflects on public sentiment towards the Trudeau government and the Conservative Party's resurgence. The conversation delves into the necessity for stricter immigration controls and promotes regional autonomy. Poilievre also addresses the pressing issues of foreign interference and calls for increased political accountability in light of recent challenges faced by the government.

In this insightful discussion, Clay Jarvis, lead writer at NerdWallet Canada, shares his expertise on the economic landscape expected in 2025. He highlights the balancing act between growth, low inflation, and the looming cost of living crisis. The conversation delves into practical strategies for navigating the rising credit card debt and the importance of emergency funds. Jarvis also emphasizes consumer confidence’s role in economic stability and offers tips for reassessing spending habits amidst fluctuating interest rates.

Darryl Bricker, Global CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs, dives into a whirlwind week in Canadian politics. He discusses the fallout from a key minister's resignation, highlighting the immediate political turmoil and shifts in public opinion. The conversation touches on widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s financial management and the disconnect between political messaging and public perception of inflation. Bricker also speculates on potential leadership changes within the Liberal Party, particularly surrounding Justin Trudeau's future.

In this enlightening discussion, Ali Breland, a staff writer for The Atlantic, dives into the public's polarized reactions to the shocking murder of healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. He explores why some people are celebrating the suspected killer, Luigi Mangione, viewing him almost as a folk hero. Breland highlights a societal shift towards accepting political violence and the complex emotions of desperation and rage driving these sentiments. The conversation probes deeper into issues of accountability in healthcare and broader implications for American society.

Gary Keller, Vice President at Strategy Corp and former advisor to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, dives into the political chaos shaking Canada. He discusses the implications of federal finance minister Chrystia Freeland's sudden resignation, raising concerns about Trudeau's leadership stability. The dialogue explores internal divisions within the Liberal Party and the precarious political climate as pressures mount for change. Keller also analyzes how these developments could impact the upcoming federal election and the future of Canada's political landscape.

Tyler Meredith, a Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs, offers insightful analysis on the unfolding fall fiscal update. The discussion reveals the government's attempts to ease financial pressures with new initiatives like a GST holiday while grappling with a hefty $40 billion deficit. Meredith highlights the challenges of budgeting in a minority parliament and the looming threat of U.S. tariffs, which could severely impact Canada’s economy. This is a crucial moment for the Liberals as they navigate economic uncertainty and potential re-election strategies.

Martin Fox, Managing Director at Robert Walters Canada, discusses the growing trend of job dissatisfaction among Canadian professionals, with 74% considering a change. He talks about the pressures influencing salary perceptions and the importance of effective communication to retain talent. Fox also highlights the differences in job relocation willingness between Canadians and Americans. Finally, he explores the evolving recruitment landscape, emphasizing the balance between technology and personal interaction in attracting skilled workers.

Tim Richter, CEO of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, dives deep into the complexities of dealing with homeless encampments in Canada. He critiques recent legislative moves in Ontario aimed at hastening evictions, arguing for a more humane Housing First approach. Richter highlights why many prefer living in encampments over shelters, citing safety and the need for reform. He emphasizes the importance of sustainable solutions like permanent housing, urging swift governmental action to address homelessness effectively.

Jules Boudreau, Senior Economist at Mackenzie Investments, dives into the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada and its potential impacts on Canadian households. He expresses concern over the economy's trajectory, highlighting the need for lower rates amid rising unemployment. The conversation explores how these cuts could influence consumer spending and the real estate market. Boudreau also discusses the challenges of accurately forecasting economic shifts, especially with tariff threats complicating inflation and growth rates.