The Big Five Podcast

Andrew Caddell, a political analyst and president of the Task Force on Linguistic Policy, joins journalist Sue Smith to explore pressing issues. They debate the ethics of Chrystia Freeland's resignation linked to her Ukraine role. The conversation shifts to Mark Carney’s trade trip to China, weighing economic prospects against human rights. The pair also discuss Quebec public servants' resistance to a three-day office return and examine changes to U.S. alcohol guidelines, comparing them with Canadian health advice and cultural attitudes towards drinking.

Raphaël Melançon, a political analyst and founder of Trafalgar Strategies, teams up with Justine McIntyre, a former Montreal city councillor and strategic consultant. They dive into the hypotheticals of the U.S. buying Greenland, debating historical attempts and local sentiment. The conversation shifts to Quebec politics, highlighting youth support for Charles Millard's leadership campaign. Finally, they tackle the state of Trudeau Airport, weighing its infrastructure shortcomings against alternatives like Mirabel.

Joining the discussion are Akil Alleyne, a seasoned reporter and political analyst, and Victor Henriquez, a public affairs specialist. They delve into former Quebec Premier Jean Charest's warning about Trump possibly targeting Canada. The conversation shifts to the political implications of fear messaging in Canada and Trump’s military instincts. They also weigh in on the Quebec Liberal leadership race rules and the controversial rise in photo radar fines—debating whether it’s a safety measure or simply a cash grab.

Political analyst Karim Boulos and Montreal businessman Jimmy Zoubris dive into hot topics like the implications of Nicolás Maduro's capture. They debate whether U.S. actions serve humanitarian purposes or set troubling precedents. The duo examines Canada's response and the need for multilateralism in international affairs. They also discuss Kristia Freeland's new role advising Ukraine and its ethical implications. Finally, they tackle the innovative idea of converting unused office spaces into apartments to address Montreal's housing crisis.

Join Paul Gott, lead singer of punk rock band the Ripcordz and journalism professor, alongside Justine McIntyre, strategic consultant and former Montreal city councillor. They delve into the Quebec Liberal leadership race, assessing Charles Milliard's unique outsider status and potential hurdles. The duo discusses the frustratingly long wait times for Info-Santé (811) and the urgent need for healthcare reform. They explore the prospects of using AI in triaging symptoms and share insights on public sentiment towards the upcoming year.

Dan Delmar, co-founder of TNKR Media and political commentator, joins Sterling Downey, Verdun city councillor, to discuss pressing political topics. They dive into the implications of a leaked CBS segment aired by Global and debate the motivations behind its withdrawal. With Mark Wiseman named Canada’s new ambassador, they analyze his qualifications amidst Quebec's dairy controversy. The discussion also touches on Alberta's groundbreaking referendum on separation, weighing the risks and regional sentiments. Their insights promise to inform and engage!

Join Jimmy Zoubris, a Montreal businessman and political activist, alongside Andrew Cadell, a columnist and linguistic policy expert, as they dive into Pierre Poilievre's readiness to unite in a No campaign if a Quebec referendum arises. They dissect the delicate balancing act Poilievre faces between Quebec nationalists and Alberta separatists. A stunning study reveals that AI chatbots can sway voter opinions, raising concerns about microtargeting and influence in politics. Plus, hear about Montreal's bike lane debates and political strategies that attract younger voters.

Paul Gott, lead singer of Montreal's punk band The Ripcordz and journalism professor, joins Akil Alleyne, a seasoned reporter and political analyst. They tackle the resignation of Quebec's Health Minister and the implications for public health, discussing the growing disconnect between rising healthcare spending and deteriorating outcomes. The duo also explores the surprising trend of Quebecers buying less alcohol at higher prices, attributing it to changing drinking habits among younger generations and evolving societal attitudes. Finally, they delve into traffic enforcement innovations, evaluating new technologies aimed at improving road safety.

Elias Makos is joined by Caroline Codsi, Founder & Chief Equity Officer, Women in Governance, and Sue Smith is a Montreal journalist and broadcaster. With Pablo Rodriguez out as leader, rumours are already swirling surrounding who will replace him.  Three thousand dollars worth of food was stolen from a Metro grocery store on Monday in the Plateau. A group called Robins des ruelles says they are the ones responsible for the theft and posted an image of some of the stolen goods underneath a Christmas Tree in Parc Valois. Montreal is making it easier to live in tents along Notre-Dame Street. According to La Presse, the city will install trailers in the area starting early next year, allowing homeless people living in tents to keep warm and access basic amenities.  Hockey Canada and Curling Canada say they have no plans to follow Skate Canada’s lead when it comes to future events in Alberta. 

Elias Makos is joined by Meeker Guerrier, Commentator at Noovo and RDS, and Justine McIntyre, Strategic consultant and former city councillor. Quebec Liberal Party Leader Pablo Rodriguez steps down Canada’s national figure skating body is blacklisting Alberta — saying the province is off-limits for major competitions because of its new law on transgender athletes. Laval wants to abandon its municipal policy on public art.