Professor Paul Finlayson was one of Canada's most respected marketing professors. Today, he is at the center of one of the country's most controversial debates over free speech, academic freedom, and the cost of speaking one's conscience. After publicly condemning Hamas following the October 7 terrorist attacks and expressing support for Israel, Finlayson says his career changed overnight. A professor for fifteen years with outstanding student evaluations and multiple textbooks to his name, he was suspended, investigated, and ultimately dismissed from the University of Guelph-Humber. In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Paul shares his story for nearly an hour—describing what he says happened behind closed doors, the emotional and financial toll of losing his career, and why, despite everything, he has never regretted taking a public stand. Together, we discuss the growing tensions surrounding free expression on university campuses, the resurgence of antisemitism, the responsibilities of educators, and the moral courage required to defend deeply held convictions when the personal cost is enormous. Whether you agree with Paul's conclusions or not, this interview raises profound questions every Canadian should consider: What is the price of speaking your conscience? If universities are meant to be places of open inquiry, what happens when controversial opinions carry professional consequences? And perhaps most importantly: What would you do if telling the truth cost you everything? Five Riveting Moments 1.
12:30 — The LinkedIn Post That Changed Everything Paul explains why he responded to a Pakistani academic following October 7 and how a single social media comment ultimately led to complaints against him. 2.
18:19 — Suspension, Gag Orders, and Public Humiliation Paul describes being removed from campus, prohibited from speaking with students or colleagues, and learning that damaging rumours were allegedly spreading about him. 3.
26:55 — "Kafkaesque": The Human Cost One of the interview's most emotional moments, as Paul discusses the psychological impact on himself and his family, describing sleepless nights, betrayal, and the collapse of the career he loved. 4.
— "I'm Just Some Stubborn Irish Guy" Despite being compared to prominent defenders of Israel, Paul rejects the label of hero and explains why he simply refused to apologize for condemning terrorism. 5.
— "I've Never Had Regret" The interview reaches its emotional peak as Paul recalls visiting Dachau as a young man, reflects on the victims of October 7, and explains why—even if given the chance—he would never take back what he said. This conversation is about much more than one professor. It is about freedom, conscience, moral courage, and whether democratic societies still make room for people who refuse to remain silent. ——🎧 The Avrum Rosensweig Show —— A one-of-a-kind, intimate schmooze-fest, hosted and produced by the endlessly curious veteran radio and TV personality, Avrum Rosensweig. With warmth and wit, Avrum uncovers the secrets, dreams, and innermost thoughts of people from all walks of life. From local shelf stockers, plumbers, food servers, to crossing guards, stars, public figures, and cultural icons. Join this channel to get access to perks:
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