Explore every episode of the podcast Podcast Is Broken

He’s the host of the podcast Canadian History Ehx, which explores Canada's history from pre-colonial times to the present day, and he’s doing a really great job at making Canadian history cool.

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At this time of year families get together to eat, drink, laugh and usually fight. We didn’t eat anything but we ticked all the other boxes. Join the fun as we answer some questions and talk about Canadian politics in the year 2024 and more!

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Imagine the worst wedding reception dinner table you have to sit at and then imagine you have to sit there and smile because if you don’t it’ll destroy Canada. Prime Minister Trudeau went to Mar-a-Lago and then Trump pitted Canada and Mexico like two kids fighting over a weekend dad.

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U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened a 25% import tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing concerns about illegal border crossings and the influx of drugs like fentanyl into the U.S. Canadian politicians panicked. Do they have to?

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The Conservatives are holding up business in the House Of Commons with a good ol’ fashioned American-style filibuster saying they need to see documents from the government so the RCMP can investigate but the RCMP says they already have them. The NDP isn’t helping. We talk about the goofiness of it and the millions of taxpayers’ money that’s being wasted.

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TikTok is a national security threat… according to the François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada. So he’s banned the… TikTok office but not the app? We take some wild guesses as to why.

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The downstairs neighbours just got back with their abusive and convicted criminal ex. What happens now? We think we know what the Liberal Party of Canada should do.

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Yes, yes… we know it’s not Halloween anymore but on Halloween we dressed up as some iconic characters and went live with our favourite spooky Canadian politics stories. Our producer, Owen, and video editor, Lisa, even joined us!

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The BC and New Brunswick elections have ended… well, the New Brunswick one has. Saskatchewan is up next. Do they even know about each other in those provinces? Or is it like the black bears in the monkey enclosure at African Lion Safari and they exist seemingly unaware of each other’s existence?

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Poilievre said he can’t get his national security clearance so he can freely criticize the government… but how can you criticize something you don’t know anything about? Is this political games, national negligence, or is there a reason he can’t get it? We talk to Green Party of Canada leader Elizabeth May, who has national security clearance, to try and find out.

The video of this episode is only available to paid subscribers.Paid subscribers help us cover production costs and may someday make us rich.The audio version of this podcast is always free!

Three provinces, three elections, ten days – Canada’s political stage is heating up, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan. Plus we play Bonk, Marry, Banish.

The video of this episode is only available to paid subscribers.Paid subscribers help us cover production costs and may someday make us rich.The audio version of this podcast is always free!

The provincial premiers of Canada have seemingly all decided that this was the week to collectively start announcing their most off-the-wall almost-ideas. Let’s go over some of thoe more bananagram ones.

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Prime Minister Trudeau went on Late Night with Stephen Colbert. It’s the number one late night talk show in the USA… does it matter?

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It’s a battle of confidence in the House Of Commons these day. Trudeau, Poilievre, and Singh have lots of confidence but do voters have confidence in them?

Plus what superhero would Blanchet be?

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The Liberal Party have enlisted Mark Carney as political advisor, journalist and professional pessimist David Moscrop weighs in and claims to have the guitar from Jurassic World (we think).

The video of this episode is only available to paid subscribers.Paid subscribers help us cover production costs and may someday make us rich.The audio version of this podcast is always free!

Jagmeet Singh, leader of the NDP, has decided to end the supply and confidence agreement with the Liberal Party, causing a stir in Canadian politics. We try to figure out the decision, the timing, and the poor optics.

The video of this episode is only available to paid subscribers. Paid subscribers help us cover production costs and may someday make us rich. The audio version of this podcast is always free!

The UCP government in Alberta is taking over hospitals and handing them to publicly funded but privately owned Covenant Health or… others. There seems to be some familiar names associated with Covenant Health. Almost like there’s money to be made. Weird.

* The Saskatchewan government's plan to spend a billion dollars on irrigation trenches raises questions about the allocation of public funds.* The controversial video released by the Conservative Party of Canada showcases poor judgment and editing choices.* The same number of people want to defund the CBC AND bring back the death penalty* Politicians often make questionable decisions and retract them later, leading to public scrutiny and criticism.

Is some of the stuff Poilievre says lying or really dumb? We think know which. The impact and tactics of Jordan Peterson, as well as the support he receives from conservative figures like Pierre Poilievre. The top concerns of the UCP members, as revealed in their policy resolutions for the annual meeting. The conversation ends with a lighthearted improvised theme song.

Should schools ban cell phones? BotGate for the Conservative Party of Canada? Has American style politics creeped into Canada just acid wash jeans?

The term 'weird' as a political tactic. How calling someone or something weird can undermine their authority and power. They also discuss the idea of not giving people the benefit of the doubt and taking their words at face value. A specific example of a politician who has been facing backlash on social media. They analyze her controversial statements and behaviour, highlighting the need for politicians to handle criticism and negative comments in a more effective and professional manner.

The ethics scandal involving Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. The potential impact of Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic nominee, on Canadian conservatives.

Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa discuss the recent assassination attempt on the former president of the US and the reactions and conspiracy theories surrounding it. The conversation also touches on the need for media pushback and the role of grifters in manipulating public opinion. Predictions for future events in Canada, including the appointment of Mark Carney as Minister of Finance and a hypothetical attack by Godzilla on Toronto.

The recent UK election and the political landscape in Canada. The abundance of information and the resulting apathy, the Saskatchewan government's battle with the CRA over carbon tax, and the eccentricities of Canadian politics. The hosts discuss the impact of algorithms on information consumption, and the need for better civic education. The hosts end with their beloved improvised theme song (for possibly the last time and auto-tuned by producer Owen) and a reminder to take care of oneself.

Politico Extraordinaire Scott Reid mistakenly joins Brittlestar, Lisa B, Steve Boots for a discussion about that by-election loss in Toronto and what it means for Prime Minister Trudeau. The conversation touches on the potential need for change within the Liberal Party and the importance of authenticity and sincerity in political communication. The quality of people entering politics and the challenges they face are discussed.

The decline of civility in society and the exploitation of anger for engagement on social media platforms. Politicians face constant criticism and personal attacks, which takes a toll on their mental health and their families. The toxic nature of politics discourages smart and well-intentioned individuals from entering the field. We debate whether politicians should be on social media and the impact it has on public discourse. They conclude with a lighthearted discussion about movies and their improvised theme song.

Ottawa has appointed a Night Mayor to boost its nightlife and attract more people to downtown. Yes, that’s funny. There is a discussion about the conflicting interpretations of the NSICOP Foreign Interference report by Elizabeth May and Jagmeet Singh, and why Poilievre won’t read it. We also talk about the new tin foil hat statements of Premier Scott Moe in Saskatchewan.

Ottawa has appointed a Night Mayor to boost its nightlife and attract more people to downtown. Yes, that’s funny. There is a discussion about the conflicting interpretations of the NSICOP Foreign Interference report by Elizabeth May and Jagmeet Singh, and why Poilievre won’t read it. We also talk about the new tin foil hat statements of Premier Scott Moe in Saskatchewan.

Election interference from foreign entities, redacted information, and the implications for political parties. The role of the NSICOP, and how to say NSICOP. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted improvised theme song.

Election interference from foreign entities, redacted information, and the implications for political parties. The role of the NSICOP, and how to say NSICOP. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted improvised theme song.

A peculiar incident in Saskatchewan politics, and the influence of rural areas on political representation, the UCP's disinvitation from pride events, the value of marginalized communities, and the introduction of ready-to-drink alcohol in retail outlets. The conversation covers the impact of Ontario's decision to allow corner stores to sell beer, the financial implications, the potential consequences, and the political motivations behind the decision. It also delves into the challenges and concerns related to the sale of alcohol in corner stores, as well as the broader implications for the alcohol industry and consumer behaviour.

A peculiar incident in Saskatchewan politics, and the influence of rural areas on political representation, the UCP's disinvitation from pride events, the value of marginalized communities, and the introduction of ready-to-drink alcohol in retail outlets. The conversation covers the impact of Ontario's decision to allow corner stores to sell beer, the financial implications, the potential consequences, and the political motivations behind the decision. It also delves into the challenges and concerns related to the sale of alcohol in corner stores, as well as the broader implications for the alcohol industry and consumer behavior.

In this episode, hosts Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots catch up and discuss a controversial youth dance event organized by a conservative constituency office, the recent exchange between Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in the House of Commons. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the binary nature of politics and the challenge of critically evaluating different parties.

In this episode, hosts Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots catch up and discuss a controversial youth dance event organized by a conservative constituency office, the recent exchange between Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in the House of Commons. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the binary nature of politics and the challenge of critically evaluating different parties.

Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa B discuss Justin Trudeau's video explaining the capital gains tax and the need for the Liberal Party to better communicate their policies. They talk about the decision of Loblaws to sign the grocery store code of conduct and the impact of the boycott on their branding. They also mention the controversy in the Saskatchewan legislature, where the speaker read a letter accusing an MLA of inappropriate behavior and an obsession with guns.

Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa B discuss Justin Trudeau's video explaining the capital gains tax and the need for the Liberal Party to better communicate their policies. They talk about the decision of Loblaws to sign the grocery store code of conduct and the impact of the boycott on their branding. They also mention the controversy in the Saskatchewan legislature, where the speaker read a letter accusing an MLA of inappropriate behaviour and an obsession with guns.

In this episode Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots discuss Steve’s recent trip to Ottawa for the very glitzy Politics and The Pen gala, and his subsequent meeting with Jagmeet Singh. Things then get weird as Steve loses power and the discussion shifts to “woke coffee lids” and Human 404 errors.

In this episode Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots discuss Steve’s recent trip to Ottawa for the very glitzy Politics and The Pen gala, and his subsequent meeting with Jagmeet Singh. Things then get weird as Steve loses power and the discussion shifts to “woke coffee lids” and Human 404 errors.

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In this episode, Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa B discuss various topics including a video of Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition, coming out of a trailer covered in graffiti, and the potential impact of these events on conservative voters. The conversation also touches on the role of politicians' PR teams, the need for politicians to connect with the middle ground, and the importance of appearing competent and knowledgeable. The conversation explores the recent ban on cell phones in Ontario schools and the broader issues surrounding technology use in education. The hosts discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of the ban, including the distraction and mental health effects of phones, as well as the need for students to learn responsible technology use. They also touch on the lack of acknowledgment and support for students who have experienced trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this episode, Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa B discuss various topics including a video of Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition, coming out of a trailer covered in graffiti, and the potential impact of these events on conservative voters. The conversation also touches on the role of politicians' PR teams, the need for politicians to connect with the middle ground, and the importance of appearing competent and knowledgeable. The conversation explores the recent ban on cell phones in Ontario schools and the broader issues surrounding technology use in education. The hosts discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of the ban, including the distraction and mental health effects of phones, as well as the need for students to learn responsible technology use. They also touch on the lack of acknowledgment and support for students who have experienced trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots discuss the recent budget and the controversy surrounding the increase in capital gains tax. They highlight the misconceptions and outrage from some individuals who believe it will affect them, even though it primarily targets the wealthy. They also touch on the benefits of living in Canada, such as healthcare, and how corporations should recognize and appreciate these advantages. The hosts question the loyalty of those who threaten to leave the country due to a small tax increase and emphasize the importance of paying for the benefits of Canadian society. The conversation explores the idea of wealth inequality and the need for taxing the rich. It discusses the concept of trickle-down economics and how it doesn't work in practice. The conversation also touches on the role of philanthropy and the limitations of relying on the generosity of the wealthy. It highlights the importance of taxation and the responsibility of the wealthy to contribute to society. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the government's PR strategy and the need to reinvigorate the public service. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance of investing in public services and valuing frontline workers. They highlight the need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public services to gain public trust. The hosts also share their experiences with COVID-19 and the challenges of accessing necessary treatments. The episode ends with their signature improvised theme song.

Brittlestar, Lisa B, and Steve Boots discuss the recent budget and the controversy surrounding the increase in capital gains tax. They highlight the misconceptions and outrage from some individuals who believe it will affect them, even though it primarily targets the wealthy. They also touch on the benefits of living in Canada, such as healthcare, and how corporations should recognize and appreciate these advantages. The hosts question the loyalty of those who threaten to leave the country due to a small tax increase and emphasize the importance of paying for the benefits of Canadian society. The conversation explores the idea of wealth inequality and the need for taxing the rich. It discusses the concept of trickle-down economics and how it doesn't work in practice. The conversation also touches on the role of philanthropy and the limitations of relying on the generosity of the wealthy. It highlights the importance of taxation and the responsibility of the wealthy to contribute to society. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the government's PR strategy and the need to reinvigorate the public service. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance of investing in public services and valuing frontline workers. They highlight the need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public services to gain public trust. The hosts also share their experiences with COVID-19 and the challenges of accessing necessary treatments. The episode ends with their signature improvised theme song.

In this episode, Brittlestar, Lisa B, Steve Boots, and guest, Fae Johnstone, discuss the current state of trans rights and trans issues in Canada. They explore the reasons behind the recent pushback against trans rights, including the use of trans issues as a distraction from other pressing issues. The conversation also touches on the role of social conservative factions within conservative parties and the tactics they use to roll back progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion. The hosts and guest emphasize the importance of engaging in dialogue, presenting facts, and focusing on the portion of the population that is open to conversation and education. The conversation explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the trans experience. It emphasizes the importance of acceptance, support, and understanding for trans individuals. The speakers discuss the need for parents to trust their children's decisions and the importance of providing access to gender-affirming care. They also address the politicization of trans issues and the objectification of trans bodies. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of fighting for a more inclusive and equal society. The conversation explores the obsession with trans women and the lack of backlash against trans men. It highlights the idiocy of focusing on trivial issues like bathroom usage and the need for more inclusive spaces. The discussion also touches on the importance of educating and informing people who may be uninformed or hesitant about transgender issues. The guests emphasize the need for dialogue, shared values, and holding politicians accountable for their ideas. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted improvised theme song.

In this episode, Brittlestar, Lisa B, Steve Boots, and guest, Fae Johnstone, discuss the current state of trans rights and trans issues in Canada. They explore the reasons behind the recent pushback against trans rights, including the use of trans issues as a distraction from other pressing issues. The conversation also touches on the role of social conservative factions within conservative parties and the tactics they use to roll back progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion. The hosts and guest emphasize the importance of engaging in dialogue, presenting facts, and focusing on the portion of the population that is open to conversation and education. The conversation explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the trans experience. It emphasizes the importance of acceptance, support, and understanding for trans individuals. The speakers discuss the need for parents to trust their children's decisions and the importance of providing access to gender-affirming care. They also address the politicization of trans issues and the objectification of trans bodies. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of fighting for a more inclusive and equal society. The conversation explores the obsession with trans women and the lack of backlash against trans men. It highlights the idiocy of focusing on trivial issues like bathroom usage and the need for more inclusive spaces. The discussion also touches on the importance of educating and informing people who may be uninformed or hesitant about transgender issues. The guests emphasize the need for dialogue, shared values, and holding politicians accountable for their ideas. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted improvised theme song.

In this episode, Brittlestar, Steve Boots, and Lisa discuss various topics, including the Swan Parade in Stratford, Ontario, and Alex Jones endorsing Pierre Poilievre. They also touch on the alignment of ideologies and the complexities of political alliances. The conversation explores the polarization in politics and the lack of nuance in public discourse. It discusses the controversy surrounding Pierre Poilievre and his association with Alex Jones, as well as the response from the conservative party. The conversation also touches on the need for critical thinking and the danger of falling for conspiracy theories. The hosts express concerns about the upcoming election and the lack of substantive policy discussions. They also discuss the government's investment in AI and the debate between public and private infrastructure. The conversation explores the potential impact of AI on various aspects of society, including job displacement, music generation, and education. The hosts discuss the need for regulation and education around AI, as well as the limitations and challenges of AI technology. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a personal touch in artistic endeavors and the potential risks of relying too heavily on AI. The hosts conclude with an improvised musical theme.

In this podcast episode, Brittlestar Steve Boots and Lisa B, along with special guest Naheed Nenshi, discuss the relationship between Alberta and the rest of Canada, particularly Ontario. They explore why there seems to be a chip on Alberta's shoulder and why people in Ontario view Alberta as a wasteland. Naheed Nenshi, the guest, explains that some of the tension is rooted in the historical perception of the West as a source of resources for central Canada. The conversation also touches on environmental policies, the energy market system in Alberta, and the mismanagement of the electricity market by the UCP government. The conversation between Naheed K Nenshi and Brittlestar explores the political landscape in Alberta and the role of empathy and compromise in politics. Nenshi discusses the question of whether the government's actions are driven by malice or incompetence, and he leans towards incompetence. He also criticizes the current government for being disinterested in governing and for making policies that harm vulnerable groups. Nenshi explains his decision to re-enter politics and his goal of bringing hope and unity to Alberta. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to rural communities and understanding their concerns. Nenshi also discusses the shift in political discourse towards anger and division, which he attributes to deliberate strategies by certain groups. In this final part of the conversation, Naheed K Nenshi discusses the demographics of political audiences and the changing voting patterns of older generations. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders and finding common ground within the party. Nenshi also addresses the need for clear communication and understanding when discussing healthcare and private investment. He acknowledges the challenges of building a coalition and winning over voters in Alberta, but remains optimistic about the future of the NDP.

Summary

In this podcast episode, Brittlestar Steve Boots and Lisa B, along with special guest Naheed Nenshi, discuss the relationship between Alberta and the rest of Canada, particularly Ontario. They explore why there seems to be a chip on Alberta's shoulder and why people in Ontario view Alberta as a wasteland. Naheed Nenshi, the guest, explains that some of the tension is rooted in the historical perception of the West as a source of resources for central Canada. The conversation also touches on environmental policies, the energy market system in Alberta, and the mismanagement of the electricity market by the UCP government. The conversation between Naheed K Nenshi and Brittlestar explores the political landscape in Alberta and the role of empathy and compromise in politics. Nenshi discusses the question of whether the government's actions are driven by malice or incompetence, and he leans towards incompetence. He also criticizes the current government for being disinterested in governing and for making policies that harm vulnerable groups. Nenshi explains his decision to re-enter politics and his goal of bringing hope and unity to Alberta. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to rural communities and understanding their concerns. Nenshi also discusses the shift in political discourse towards anger and division, which he attributes to deliberate strategies by certain groups. In this final part of the conversation, Naheed K Nenshi discusses the demographics of political audiences and the changing voting patterns of older generations. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders and finding common ground within the party. Nenshi also addresses the need for clear communication and understanding when discussing healthcare and private investment. He acknowledges the challenges of building a coalition and winning over voters in Alberta, but remains optimistic about the future of the NDP.

Takeaways

There is a historical perception that the West, including Alberta, is seen as a source of resources for the enrichment of central Canada.

Tension between Alberta and the rest of Canada is fueled by divisive discourse from politicians and an inability to make deals for the benefit of all.

Environmental policies and the energy market system in Alberta contribute to the strained relationship between Alberta and the rest of Canada.

The mismanagement of the electricity market by the UCP government has led to skyrocketing electricity prices in Alberta. The current government in Alberta is seen as incompetent rather than malicious, although there may be instances of malice in certain policies.

Nenshi aims to bring hope and unity to Alberta and believes in the importance of reaching out to rural communities.

The political discourse has shifted towards anger and division, which Nenshi attributes to deliberate strategies by certain groups.

Nenshi emphasizes the need for empathy and compromise in politics and believes in the power of kindness and empathy to bring about positive change. The demographics of political audiences are changing, and it is important for parties to recognize and engage with diverse groups.

Older generations are no longer exclusively conservative, as voting patterns show an inversion where older individuals are becoming more liberal.

Engaging with stakeholders and finding common ground within the party is crucial for success.

Clear communication and understanding are necessary when discussing healthcare and private investment.

Building a coalition and winning over voters in Alberta can be challenging, but it is essential for the NDP's success.

Summary

In this episode, Brittlestar, Steve Boots, Lisa B and this week’s guest, journalist Rachel Gilmore discuss the state of journalism and the reasons behind its decline. They explore the impact of capitalism and extractive practices on journalism, as well as the shift towards profit-driven models. The role of advertising in funding journalism is examined, along with the challenges and potential solutions for sustainable funding. Despite the challenges, there is optimism for the future of journalism and the importance of preserving it as a public good. The conversation explores the value of good journalism and the challenges faced by news organizations in the current media landscape. It discusses the gap in the market for reliable news and the difficulty of finding trustworthy sources. The need for news organizations to adapt and meet audiences where they are is emphasized. The conversation also delves into the impact of confirmation bias, media literacy, and critical thinking on the consumption of news. The decline of journalism and the role of social media and algorithms are examined. The importance of building trust through personal connections and the need for diversity in newsrooms are highlighted. In this episode, the hosts and guest discuss the changing landscape of journalism and the potential benefits of the crashing and burning of mainstream media. They explore the failings of mainstream media in covering important issues and the need for a more diverse range of perspectives. The conversation also delves into the uncomfortable transition in media and the importance of nurturing the survival of democracy. The value of traditional media institutions and the pros and cons of their structures are examined. The hosts and guest offer suggestions for supporting journalism and taking action to help the industry.

Takeaways

The decline of journalism is influenced by capitalism and extractive practices.

Advertising plays a significant role in funding journalism, but it also poses challenges and potential conflicts of interest.

Alternative funding models, such as public funding or crowdfunding, could help insulate journalism from the influence of advertisers.

Preserving journalism as a public good is crucial for holding powerful individuals and institutions accountable. The value of good journalism lies in providing reliable and trustworthy information to the public.

There is a gap in the market for reliable news, as many news organizations prioritize profit over quality journalism.

Consumers should be critical of the news they consume and seek out diverse perspectives.

News organizations need to adapt and meet audiences where they are in order to provide information in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Media literacy and critical thinking are essential in navigating the current media landscape and avoiding confirmation bias.

The decline of journalism is influenced by factors such as social media, algorithms, and the prioritization of profit over quality reporting.

Building trust through personal connections and fostering diversity in newsrooms are crucial for the future of journalism. The crashing and burning of mainstream media can lead to a more diverse range of reporting perspectives.

Mainstream media institutions have failings in covering important issues and often prioritize profit over informing the public.

The transition in media is uncomfortable but requires active participation and vigilance to ensure the survival of democracy.

Supporting journalism involves subscribing to and promoting outlets that do good work, as well as putting public pressure on newsroom executives.

The value of traditional media institutions lies in their layers of accountability and access to resources, but there are also drawbacks to their structures.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:18 The Decline of Journalism

06:05 The Shift to Profit-driven Journalism

08:32 The Role of Advertising in Journalism

13:08 Alternative Funding Models

18:53 The Value of Good Journalism

20:14 The Gap in the Market

21:30 The Difficulty of Finding Reliable News

22:25 Adapting News Delivery

23:34 The Old School vs. New School Journalism

24:50 Confirmation Bias and Media Literacy

26:41 Blaming Trudeau and Late Stage Capitalism

27:37 Challenging Assumptions and Critical Thinking

28:43 Building Trust through Personal Connections

30:30 The Importance of Journalism and Journalists

31:32 The Role of Critical Thinking

32:31 The Decline of Journalism

37:29 The Impact of Social Media and Algorithms

38:08 The Need for Proportional Reporting

41:09 Trust in Personalities vs. News Outlets

42:21 The Business Side of Journalism

44:24 Journalists as Frontline Workers

46:26 Diversity and Representation in Newsrooms

46:55 Challenging Power Structures in Media

47:07 The Changing Landscape of Journalism

48:06 The Upside of the Crashing and Burning of Mainstream Media

49:02 The Failings of Mainstream Media

50:21 The Uncomfortable Transition in Media

51:22 Nurturing the Survival of Democracy

53:30 The Importance of Intentional Journalism

54:51 The Value of Traditional Media Institutions

55:00 Pros and Cons of Traditional Media Structures

57:29 Supporting Journalism and News Outlets

59:00 Taking Action to Help Journalism

01:02:19 The Podcast is Broken Outro

In this episode, Brittlestar, Steve Boots, Lisa B and this week’s guest, journalist Rachel Gilmore discuss the state of journalism and the reasons behind its decline. They explore the impact of capitalism and extractive practices on journalism, as well as the shift towards profit-driven models. The role of advertising in funding journalism is examined, along with the challenges and potential solutions for sustainable funding. Despite the challenges, there is optimism for the future of journalism and the importance of preserving it as a public good. The conversation explores the value of good journalism and the challenges faced by news organizations in the current media landscape. It discusses the gap in the market for reliable news and the difficulty of finding trustworthy sources. The need for news organizations to adapt and meet audiences where they are is emphasized. The conversation also delves into the impact of confirmation bias, media literacy, and critical thinking on the consumption of news. The decline of journalism and the role of social media and algorithms are examined. The importance of building trust through personal connections and the need for diversity in newsrooms are highlighted. In this episode, the hosts and guest discuss the changing landscape of journalism and the potential benefits of the crashing and burning of mainstream media. They explore the failings of mainstream media in covering important issues and the need for a more diverse range of perspectives. The conversation also delves into the uncomfortable transition in media and the importance of nurturing the survival of democracy. The value of traditional media institutions and the pros and cons of their structures are examined. The hosts and guest offer suggestions for supporting journalism and taking action to help the industry.

Summary

The conversation explores the use of family members in political campaigns, specifically focusing on the recent video released by Pierre Poilievre's wife. The hosts discuss the role of families in Canadian politics and the strategic use of family members to appeal to specific demographics. They also examine the impact on children of politicians and the public scrutiny they face. The conversation delves into the perception of politicians' families and the effectiveness of using family members in campaigns. It concludes with a discussion on the importance of demonstrated accomplishments and the perception of warmth and connection in politics. The conversation delves into the analysis of video views and engagement, comparing the performance of different political videos. The potential heir apparent to Justin Trudeau is discussed, along with his future plans. The impact of campaigns and mistakes is explored, as well as the analysis of Pierre Poilievre's video. The involvement of spouses in political careers is examined, specifically focusing on Ana Poilievre. The conversation concludes with a discussion on rally attendance and closing remarks.

Takeaways

The use of family members in political campaigns is a strategic move to appeal to specific demographics and convey a positive image.

The involvement of politicians' families can lead to public scrutiny and negative consequences for the children involved.

The effectiveness of using family members in campaigns is debatable, as it may not significantly sway voters' decisions.

The perception of warmth, connection, and lived experiences plays a role in how politicians are perceived by the public. Video views and engagement are important metrics to analyze the performance of political videos.

The potential heir apparent to a political leader can have a significant impact on the future of a party.

Campaigns can be grueling and mistakes can have a lasting impact.

The involvement of spouses in political careers can be a strategic decision.

Rally attendance can be misleading and should be analyzed critically.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Dynamics

01:49 Politicians Using Family Members for Campaigning

03:03 The Role of Families in Canadian Politics

04:28 Strategic Use of Family Members in Campaigns

05:56 Conflicting Messages and Alienating Voters

06:52 Using Family to Portray a Positive Image

07:49 Family Involvement in Canadian Politics

08:16 Separation of Personal and Political Lives

09:36 Impact on Children of Politicians

10:35 Public Scrutiny of Politicians' Children

11:34 Perception of Politicians' Families

12:33 Effectiveness of Using Family Members in Campaigns

13:32 Misinterpretation of Quotes and Context

18:40 Lack of Personal Anecdotes and Warmth

19:39 Dedication to Politics vs. Other Professions

21:04 Disconnect with Lived Experiences

22:32 Importance of Demonstrated Accomplishments

24:00 Perception of Warmth and Connection

25:23 Representation on the World Stage

26:21 Being Politician vs. Other Roles

27:46 Limited Legislative Accomplishments

28:13 Initial Perception of the Video

29:36 Analyzing the Video Views

31:00 Comparing Videos and Engagement

34:09 Sean Fraser as a Potential Heir Apparent

35:08 Justin Trudeau's Future Plans

38:21 Campaigns and Mistakes

41:14 Analyzing Pierre Poilievre's Video

42:39 Involving Spouses in Political Careers

46:29 The Role of Anna Poilievre

53:39 Analyzing Rally Attendance

56:03 Closing Remarks