The Backbench-logo

The Backbench

News & Politics Podcasts

If your Twitter feed’s a dumpster fire, and your dinner table discussions aren’t what they used to be, The Backbench has the insights you need on Canada's most important political issues. Each Tuesday, we’ll ask bold questions and offer sharp analysis, giving you the tools to challenge any perspective — maybe even your own. With the next federal election looming, you’ll want us in your ears and your back pocket. The Backbench is made by Noor Azrieh, Aviva Lessard and Sam Konnert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Location:

Canada

Description:

If your Twitter feed’s a dumpster fire, and your dinner table discussions aren’t what they used to be, The Backbench has the insights you need on Canada's most important political issues. Each Tuesday, we’ll ask bold questions and offer sharp analysis, giving you the tools to challenge any perspective — maybe even your own. With the next federal election looming, you’ll want us in your ears and your back pocket. The Backbench is made by Noor Azrieh, Aviva Lessard and Sam Konnert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Twitter:

@oppocast

Language:

English


Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Man of Steel, Nation of Bloat

2/11/2025
The government hired 110,000 workers over the past 10 years, did we get 110,000 times more efficient? It doesn’t look like it, but veteran public servant Michael Wernick breaks it all down for Noor. And, yes folks, we’re talking about tariffs again, because Donald Trump enacted a 25 percent tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, with NO exceptions. Plus, our nominations for Fentanyl Czar, and the defamation case against Conservative Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman, CIJA, and Ezra Levant. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Senior Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Michael Wernick Background reading: How a ballooning public sector is reshaping Canada’s economy Attrition is the 'worst way' to shrink federal public service, says former clerkOpinion: Canada can learn from Trump and cut its bloated bureaucracy - The Globe and MailPoilievre says he wants to cut the federal public service, doesn't mind remote workWhat does Justin Trudeau's departure mean for federal public servants? Sponsors: Take action at remoteworks.ca today to support a future of work that benefits everyone. 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, 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.

Duration:00:28:23

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Three Businesses Jerked Around by Trump

2/4/2025
On Saturday, President Trump followed through with his promise of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods and 10 percent on energy. We clapped back with our own. But late yesterday, after a couple of calls between the two leaders, Trump relented after Trudeau said he outlined Canada’s $1.3 billion border plan and also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl. Trump said he’d pause for 30 days. A trade war is bad, but some businesses might fare better than others. Our producers went out to see how they were reacting. Host: Sam Konnert Credits: Aviva Lessard (Senior Producer), Sam Konnert (Host/Producer), Noor Azrieh (Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Jeff Kirstein, Adam Brierley, Kacee Vasudeva Background reading: These industries would be hit hardest by Trump's 25 per cent tariffs - DiscoverHumboldt.comTrump has a 'good talk' with Trudeau — then calls again for Canada to become 51st stateMexico president says U.S. tariffs on her country delayed for 1 monthDefence minister accelerates 2% NATO spending timeline to 2027 amid pressure from Trump Photo credit: Presidencia de la República Mexicana via Flickr Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Take action at remoteworks.ca today to support a future of work that benefits everyone. For more information about Canada-first advertising on Canadaland please contact dory@canadaland.com 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, 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.

Duration:00:29:24

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Did Jagmeet Singh Miss His Big Chance?

1/28/2025
When Justin Trudeau stepped down earlier this month, it should have been the perfect opportunity for Jagmeet Singh and the NDP to swing the narrative. To seize control. But they haven’t done any of that. What used to be Canada’s worker’s party seems like a shell of its former self. Why can’t they reach voters when everything is up in the air? This week Noor sits down with columnist and critic Max Fawcett, and former NDP strategist Mélanie Richer to unpack Singh’s woes. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Mélanie Richer, Max Fawcett Background reading: The NDP is getting outflanked — again Ginny Roth: The NDP don’t take themselves seriously, so why should we? Is It Time for Singh to Go? Is Jagmeet Singh’s job at risk in the upcoming election?Singh says NDP still plan to vote to topple Liberals ‘at the earliest opportunity,’ regardless of leader 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, 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.

Duration:00:30:41

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Introducing: The Copernic Affair

1/22/2025
The Copernic Affair is available now, wherever you get your podcasts. The life of an unassuming sociology professor in Canada gets turned upside down when he is accused of carrying out a 1980 bomb attack on a synagogue in Paris. Hassan Diab says heʼs innocent, but French investigators are determined to prove otherwise. Journalists Dana Ballout and Alex Atack take listeners through the twists and turns of this extraordinary story, all the while asking… Is Hassan Diab guilty, or is he a scapegoat? And what if one person’s justice means committing an injustice to another? You can become a Canadaland supporter to listen to the whole series early and ad-free. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:03:35

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Trump Almost Forgot to Bully Us

1/21/2025
Donald Trump’s back, but Canada is STILL divided on how to respond. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has gone rogue, Doug Ford just wants everyone to look at his cool new hat. It’s an economic threat, but also threatens to pull our very identity apart. Are we just supposed to sit and wait? To break it down, Noor welcomes Wall Street Journal reporter Vipal Monga, and UBC lecturer Stewart Prest. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Senior Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Vipal Monga, Stewart Prest Background reading: Canada’s fight with Trump isn’t just economic, it’s existentialCanada Knows Trump Would Win a Trade Fight. It Is Preparing to Retaliate Anyway. Canada on Trump’s Proposed Union: Thanks, but Let’s Just Be Friends Canada Suddenly Has No Leader, and No Plan, for a Trump Trade FightAlberta premier's Trump visit raises concerns she's flouting Team Canada approach Canada ready to buy more American products to appease Trump's tariff threat, ambassador says Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland 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, 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. Our latest investigation, The Copernic Affair, launches tomorrow on the Canadaland Investigates feed. Follow The Copernic Affair wherever you get your podcasts: https://canadaland.lnk.to/copernic-affair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:38:12

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Interview With a Young Lefty

1/14/2025
Join Noor Azrieh and Sam Konnert for a discussion to bid farewell to key legislation that is likely to be lost due to Parliament's prorogation. From the Online Harms Act, to clean drinking water for First Nation communities, there’s a lot to mourn. And, how could a new liberal leader possibly win back young men? We speak with Aiden Fox Ivey, who reached out after he heard our interview with a conservative bro. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Aiden Fox Ivey, Taylor Owen, Chris Moonias Background reading: With the House of Commons prorogued, some key Liberal legislation may not passYoung Canadians now more politically conservative than their elders Poilievre’s Youth: Meet the young voters supporting the ConservativesHasan Piker on how Trump seized online culture Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland 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, 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.

Duration:00:33:26

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

The Long Goodbye: Trudeau’s Not Gone Yet

1/7/2025
Yesterday Trudeau announced that he would prorogue parliament and resign as Prime Minister. Now, the Liberal Party is embarking on a journey to replace him. He talked about “internal battles” and pressure from Donald Trump, and decided this was the best option. But is it too little too late? Who could possibly have hair good enough to replace him? Logic reporter Laura Osman and Trudeau’s former head of economic policy Tyler Meredith join Sam to discuss what this means for Canada. Host: Sam Konnert Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Laura Osman and Tyler Meredith Background reading: Justin Trudeau resigned too late. There is no salvaging the Liberal Party nowWho will replace Justin Trudeau as the next Liberal leader? Here are the top contenders Trudeau removes himself from the equation, but the math doesn't get much easierTrudeau says he's not the right choice to lead party in next election, promises to resign as PM Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland 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, 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.

Duration:00:27:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Payday Loans: the Cost of Being Poor

12/24/2024
Starting January 1st, the criminal interest rate on predatory lending will be lowered, meaning it should be safer to take out payday and installment loans. But these businesses have a tendency to skirt the law, adding unexpected fees and insurance rates to keep borrowers in the hole. Sam welcomes Donna Borden to the show - an organizer with ACORN. She’s been a victim to these loans, and is now fighting against them. Will the crackdown work and really help lower people’s payments? How can we make short term loans a real option for people struggling, without the sky-high payments? Host: Sam Konnert Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio), Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Donna Borden Background reading: Debt struggles spark concernsAnti-poverty advocates call payday lenders 'criminal,' urge feds to cap interest ratesNew rules to curb predatory lending still leave many vulnerableHow a $200 payday loan cost over $31,000 Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more To claim, visit article.com/backbench and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. 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, 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.

Duration:00:23:30

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

The Undoing of Justin Trudeau

12/17/2024
It was a hell of a day for the Liberals yesterday, as Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland abruptly abandoned her post. Now, all fingers are pointed at one man: Justin Trudeau. So what happened? And where do we go from here? Reporter for The Logic Laura Osman sits down with Sam to break down Justin’s Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Host: Sam Konnert Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Stuart Benson Background reading: Federal deficit balloons to $61.9B as government tables economic update on chaotic day in Ottawa Trudeau taps Dominic LeBlanc to serve as finance minister after Chrystia Freeland's shock resignation Chrystia Freeland’s years of loyalty culminate in a humiliating and tragic endFreeland’s grenade brings crisis on top of crisis to a flailing Trudeau government Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more To claim, visit article.com/backbench and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. 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, 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.

Duration:00:21:24

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Interview with a Conservative Bro

12/10/2024
The political gender divide isnt just a U.S. phenonmenon, its showing up globally, from the U.K. to South Korea. It’s only a matter of time before the next Canadian election wherethese political dynamics could soon take center stage. Host Noor Azrieh sits down with Jack Gordon, a young conservative, to ask what he’s thinking about politics these days? And, why conservative politics are resonating with young Canadian men? Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Jack Gordon Background reading: Young Canadians now more politically conservative than their eldersPoilievre’s Youth: Meet the young voters supporting the Conservatives Hasan Piker on how Trump seized online culture Abacus Data Poll: Conservatives lead by 22 as surrounding impressions hold steadyWhat’s behind the global political divide between young men and women?Why Trump Thinks He Needs Young Men to Win Sponsors: Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more To claim, visit article.com/backbench and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. 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, 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.

Duration:00:27:59

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Does Trudeau Know How to Deal with Trump?

12/3/2024
Last Monday, U.S. president-elect Donald Trump posted to his beloved Truth Social with a hefty threat. If Canada and Mexico don't get the border in order, or the drugs in check, he’ll slap a 25 per cent tariff on all goods. These tariffs could crash several major U.S. industries and ruin Canada’s economy. But this isn’t the first time Trump’s threatened Canada. Host Noor Azrieh sits down with Vipal Monga to ask, did Canadian politicians learn anything from dealing with Trump the first time around, or are they stumbling into Trump 2.0 just as clueless? And, the latest on a BC lawsuit against opioid manufacturers and distributors and alleged interference in the Conservative leadership race that got Conservative Leader Pierre Polievre elected. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Post Production), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Vipal Monga Further Reading On Our Website Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more To claim, visit article.com/backbench and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. 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, 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.

Duration:00:31:00

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Danielle Smith's All You Can Eat Alberta-Style Freedom

11/19/2024
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith tabled a rehauled Bill of Rights with changes aimed at ending vaccine mandates, protecting gun ownership and ensuring property rights–a move she claims as “reflection of our shared values.” But it doesn't stop there, over 30 bills are making their way through the Alberta legislature, so host Noor Azrieh sits down with Ryan Jespersen and Mel Woods to make sense of the controversial changes and make sense of whether or not this bold stand for freedom (or play for Smith’s right-wing base) may alienate other Albertans. And, the latest on the Canada post strike, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s 7 minute video addressing the mistakes made on immigration. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Director of Audio) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Ryan Jespersen, Mel Woods Background reading: Alberta Bill of RightsPremier Danielle Smith announces plan to reinforce vaccine choice in Alberta Bill of RightsThings ‘more intense’ since Alberta policies dropped, says mom of trans kidCanada Post, union to return to bargaining Monday after federal government appoints special mediatorWhy Canada’s changing its immigration system Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more To claim, visit article.com/backbench and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. 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, 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.

Duration:00:34:57

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, the Canadaland Interview

11/12/2024
Last week, UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese landed in Canada, setting off a firestorm of controversy that Canadian politics was not ready for. She’s been accused of antisemitism, refused meetings by government officials, and had her talks protested. She’s been calling the war in Gaza a genocide, but the big question isn’t what she has to say, but whether or not she was someone anyone should even be listening to. This week, we sit down with Albanese to discuss the genocide, the accusations against her, and the power of the UN. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Francesca Albanese Photo credit: AFP pic Background reading: UN rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories says she was ‘snubbed’ by Canadian governmentCanada refuses to comment on US sale of Canadian-made weapons to Israel Calls mount for Canada to bar UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese over antisemitic remarksUN special rapporteur on the Palestinian Territories holds news conference30 Jewish Organizations: We Support UN Human Rights Rapporteur Francesca Albanese Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Audible: Listen now at Audible.ca/bestoftheyear Canada needs rigorous, deeply reported independent journalism now more than ever. Go to canadaland.com/join to become a yearly Canadaland Supporter today and get three months of perks and benefits for free. You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:35:53

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

How Canadian Voters Could Sway the U.S. Election

11/5/2024
It’s the 60th US Presidential election, and the stakes feel like they’ve never been higher. This episode is a pulse check on what people are doing, thinking, and feeling on our side of that Windsor-Detroit border. Host Noor Azrieh also looks back on the 2016 election and her feeling of powerlessness, and addresses the stakes, impact, and consequences of this election. And, the latest on Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre’s proposed GST cut for home sales, Alberta’s bill of rights (again…), and Canada’s collective failure in upholding the legacy of Murray Sinclair. CORRECTIONS 11/05/2024: Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Michael Breshgold, Georganne Burke Background reading: #94 Can Kamala Save Canada from Trump?U.S. election: How would Harris, Trump immigration plans impact Canada?Organizers for both parties mobilizing to get Americans in Canada to voteCanadian support for Donald Trump higher than in last U.S. presidential election, survey findsWhere Do Trump and Harris Stand on Israel-Gaza Conflict? Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Canada needs rigorous, deeply reported independent journalism now more than ever. Go to canadaland.com/join to become a yearly Canadaland Supporter today and get three months of perks and benefits for free. You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:36:47

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Trudeau, Trump, Poilievre, Harris: What Do Voters Even Want?

10/29/2024
Liberal MP’s have hopped on the #TrudeauHasGotToGo bandwagon after 28 caucus members asked for his resignation. The PM is in a completely different arena than when he arrived nine years ago. So did he change? Or did we? Vox writer Zach Beauchamp sits down with host Noor Azrieh to unpack what kind of leaders are meeting this moment. What leaders are voters looking for? Are they looking for authenticity or radical change? And, the latest on the Liberals’ slashed immigration targets, and calls for a public inquiry over more and more police killings of Indigenous people. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Zach Beauchamp Background reading: Is Pierre Poilievre the Canadian version of Donald Trump?Some Liberal MPs issue a deadline to Trudeau: make up your mind to stay or go by Oct. 28Trudeau hits date set by Liberal MPs to respond to caucus letterThe Reactionary Spirit by Zack Beauchamp Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland This episode features the audio short “Fish Count” by Jean M. Sarrazin (Comox, BC), one of the finalists from the 2024 Local Correspondents Audio Competition, a CanadaLabs initiative. CanadaLabs, a hub for the next generation of audio journalists, is made possible with the support of Amazon Music, The Perspective Fund, and Canadaland Supporters. Be part of the solution to Canada’s journalism crisis. Go to canadaland.com/join to become a yearly Canadaland Supporter today and get 3 months of perks and benefits for free. Canada needs rigorous, deeply reported independent journalism now more than ever. Go to canadaland.com/join to become a yearly Canadaland Supporter today and get three months of perks and benefits for free. You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:31:12

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

India’s “Horrific Mistake” in Canada

10/22/2024
A massive criminal campaign—extortion, intimidation, coercion, harassment, even murder—allegedly orchestrated by India on Canadian soil. This is a BIG deal. After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India and expelled six diplomats, Arshy Mann joins host Noor Azrieh to explain the impact and political blowback of these allegations. And, the latest on the coup against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, political paralysis in parliament, and how we were right on the money with our BC election predictions. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor/ Mixer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Arshy Mann Background reading: Allegations of murder, extortion, coercion by India spark diplomatic retaliationsPierre Poilievre Is Soft On (Indian Government Organized) CrimeOpinion: Why Indians of almost every political persuasion are backing New Delhi in its dispute with Canada India's response to diplomatic communication from Canada Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland Canada needs rigorous, deeply reported independent journalism now more than ever. Go to canadaland.com/join to become a yearly Canadaland Supporter today and get three months of perks and benefits for free. You can listen ad-free on Amazon Music—included with Prime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:36:08

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

B.C.’s Batsh*t Election

10/15/2024
Shit-posting candidates, climate change denial, outright racism, and those damn paper straws. Host Noor Azrieh calls up Arno Kopecky, Shannon Waters, and Mo Amir to ask what the hell is going on in B.C.’s election. And, the latest on the foreign interference commission, pharmacare, and Alberta’s Bill of Rights. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager), Jesse Brown (Publisher and Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Arno Kopecky, Shannon Waters, Mo Amir Background reading: British Columbia’s Election Is a Bellwether for Climate PolicyOpinion: B.C. election puts broader populist tide to the testThe BC NDP Is Boring Voters. That Could Be Their Selling Point What on earth just happened with B.C.’s carbon tax? BC Conservative Candidate Called For ‘Boycott’ of Air Canada to Stop Airlifts Rescuing Syrian Refugees Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland 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, 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.

Duration:00:30:01

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Trump Says Canada Doesn’t Pull Its Weight in NATO—He’s Right

10/8/2024
It feels like we’ve never been closer to another world war. If our NATO allies called us, could we answer? This week, host Noor Azrieh, with guests David Pugliese and Stephen Saideman, explore whether NATO targets matter, what we should be spending our money on, and if we’re at the mercy of our beefed-up southern neighbours. And, the latest on Prime Minister Trudeau’s regrets with electoral reform, Canadians choosing to stay in Lebanon and the Bloc Quebecois Pierre-pressuring the Liberals. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor/Mixer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Jesse Brown (Editor), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: David Pugliese, Stephen Saideman Background reading: Trudeau should expect criticism at NATO summit over defence spendingThe Organizations Behind Canada’s Most Quoted Military ExpertsState of Canadian Armed Forces' combat readiness growing worse, government report warnsThinking the 'unthinkable': NATO wants Canada and allies to gear up for a conventional warDefence industry rep says Canada on ‘hamster wheel’ of red tape as ammo contracts fail to materialize Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland If you value this podcast, Support us! You’ll get premium access to all our shows ad-free, including early releases and bonus content, 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.

Duration:00:33:43

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Canada's Gutless Palestine Policy

10/1/2024
While world leaders meet and Israel’s war on Gaza spreads, Canadian MPs are at odds over recognizing a Palestinian state. How much does Canadian recognition really matter? Why are we dragging our feet? Host Noor Azrieh sits down with Michael Lynk, the former Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territories, and Mark Kersten, a human rights and international criminal justice expert to find out. Host: Noor Azrieh Credits: Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Host/Producer), Jesse Brown (Editor), Caleb Thompson (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager), Tony Wang (Artwork) Guests: Mark Kersten and Michael Lynk Photo Credit - Richard Koek Background reading: Canada Abstains from United Nations General Assembly resolution on Admission of new Members to the United NationsGovernment MPs presented a motion to study Palestinian statehood at committee, sources say Ottawa-based company is key to keeping Israeli warplanes bombing Gaza Israel ‘on a high’ after Nasrallah killing, as mood for an invasion grows Liberal staffers pull support for party in Montreal byelection, citing government's stance on Gaza Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland. CAMH is building better mental health care for everyone to ensure no one is left behind. This Mental Illness Awareness Week, your donation to CAMH will be matched. Visit camh.ca/canadaland to double your impact. If you value this podcast, Support us! You’ll get premium access to all our shows ad-free, including early releases and bonus content, 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.

Duration:00:35:21

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Parliament is Back and More Childish Than Ever

9/24/2024
We’re a week into parliament's new session, and things are getting ugly. Justin Trudeau is trying on a new attitude, Jagmeet Singh ripped up the Supply and Confidence Agreement and Pierre Poilievre is doing everything he can to force an election as soon as possible. So, what are we in for here? An election? A year of mudslinging? Our panelists Max Fawcett, Brian Platt and Shannon Phillips try to make sense of it all. Host: Mattea Roach Credits: Noor Azrieh (Producer), Aviva Lessard (Producer), Sam Konnert (Producer), Tristan Capacchione (Audio Editor and Technical Producer), Max Collins (Production Manager) Guests: Max Fawcett, Brian Platt and Shannon Phillips Additional music by Audio Network Background reading: 'I'm right here, bro': Singh, Poilievre have tense exchange during question period | CBC NewsJustin Trudeau ‘unleashed’ is the Liberals’ new weaponHouse Speaker calls on MPs to improve behaviour after rowdy question period last week Sponsors: Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today at douglas.ca/canadaland CAMH is building better mental health care for everyone to ensure no one is left behind. This Mental Illness Awareness Week, your donation to CAMH will be matched. Visit camh.ca/canadaland to double your impact. 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, 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.

Duration:00:41:16