Gloves Off

In this extended interview, Margaret Atwood joins Stephen Marche for a wide-ranging, sharp, and often darkly funny conversation on what we can learn from the past when Canadian sovereignty has been threatened by America; how this moment is exceptional; what we might expect in the future. From draft dodgers to free trade, red bonnets to AI servers, Atwood weighs in on where we are—and where we might be headed. Atwood brings sharp insight and surprising optimism to a moment of national reckoning.A must-listen on sovereignty, survival, and what Canada needs to protect itself from the storm next door.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the past seven episodes, we’ve tracked Canada’s shocking, painful, and necessary awakening. The threat from America is no longer theoretical—it’s here, it’s real, and we’re not ready.But something else is happening too. Canadians are responding. Travel boycotts. A rise in patriotism. A new spirit of sovereignty. Because our old relationship with America is over. Our final question to close the series: What does the new normal look like?In this episode, Stephen Marche speaks with two people who have seen the future from different angles: Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and autocracy expert, Anne Applebaum, and legendary author, Margaret Atwood. Together, they help us sketch out the “new normal”—a world caught between democracy and authoritarianism, and where Canada fits into this new world order.This is an episode about what’s at stake, what can be built, and why we can’t go back.Featuring (in order of appearance): Anne Applebaum, Margaret AtwoodWatch an extended version of Stephen's interview with Margaret Atwood on YouTube August 19th. Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts and/or e-mail us info@glovesoffpodcast.ca Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bessma Momani, a political science professor at the University of Waterloo and advisor to Public Safety Canada, shares her insights on the escalating information war. She discusses the pervasive influence of online disinformation on democratic integrity, particularly in Canada, and stresses the urgent need for digital literacy. Momani tackles sophisticated tactics from authoritarian regimes like Russia and China, and highlights the importance of fact-checking efforts and civic responsibility in combating misinformation. A riveting exploration of the challenges and resilience of contemporary society!

Aisha Ahmad, a political science professor and insurgency expert at the University of Toronto, engages in a provocative discussion about the potential for a Canadian insurgency in the face of a U.S. invasion. She delves into the nuances of asymmetric warfare and the emotional realities of ordinary citizens turning to resistance. Insights from former IRA member Breige Brownlee add depth as they explore how everyday people transform into freedom fighters. The conversation tackles the ethics of military engagement and the intricate dynamics of power and resistance.

Retired Major General Scott Clancy, a veteran of the Canadian military and former deputy for NORAD, joins Finnish security expert Matti Pesu to discuss the pressing need for Canada to rethink its defense strategies. They explore the changing global landscape and the threats to Canadian sovereignty, particularly in the Arctic. Clancy emphasizes the integration of Indigenous knowledge into military operations, while Pesu offers insights from Finland’s whole-of-society approach to national security, advocating for a collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation.

Tim Mak, a Canadian-American journalist and editor of The Counteroffensive, shares vital insights into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He explores how Ukraine’s history offers critical lessons on recognizing authoritarianism and its implications for nations like Canada. Viktoriia shares her harrowing tale of fleeing war-torn Kherson, highlighting the fleeting nature of peace. The discussion delves into military preparedness, the emotional toll of conflict, and the importance of vigilance in the face of rising global threats.

Zita Cobb, founder of Shorefast and the Fogo Island Inn, champions local economies through innovative community initiatives. Jon Shell, Chair of Social Capital Partners, discusses the need for Canada to rethink its economic alliances. They explore the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs and how Canada can adapt to build resilience. The conversation highlights the importance of grassroots efforts and forming coalitions with like-minded countries to ensure economic security, promoting independence from superpower dependencies.

Dive into the gripping story of a graphic designer joining the Canadian Reserves, revealing unexpected threats from the U.S. Experts weigh in on Canada's readiness, grading the nation's political, economic, and military strengths and weaknesses. The podcast also examines the evolving dynamics of Indigenous relations amid environmental concerns and the complexities of resource management. A deep exploration of economic dependency on the U.S. highlights urgent calls for Canada to bolster its own capabilities for the future.

Neil Bisson, a retired CSIS agent and director of the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network, teams up with Barbara F. Walter, an expert on civil wars and political conflict. They explore Canada's precarious position as American democracy falters. Bisson emphasizes the need for Canada to reassess its security relationships, while Walter discusses the risks of political instability spilling across borders. Together, they highlight Canada's vulnerabilities and the urgent necessity for a self-reliant national identity in the face of global uncertainties.

Welcome to Gloves Off, a podcast about the threat to Canada’s sovereignty and what we can do about it. Hosted by Stephen Marche. Gloves Off is Canadian Realpolitik – what are the dangers we face and how do we avoid them? We break down the critical issues with outspoken experts and thinkers, as well as everyday Canadians.The Gloves come off on Canada Day, Tuesday, July 1st. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.