Our series, The Big Story, continues!

In this episode, Tracy Walder, a former CIA officer and FBI agent, shares her experiences in national security, insights on Mexico's current security situation, and the impact of drug cartels on North America. She discusses her career, the role of women in intelligence, and the importance of addressing domestic terrorism and security challenges.

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We explore the complex dynamics of floor crossing in Canadian politics, analyzing recent high-profile defections, their implications for party loyalty, democracy, and leadership strategies. We look at the moral, strategic, and societal impacts of politicians switching parties, with insights into the current political landscape and future trends.

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A catch up on the latest political news and a conversation about the horrific events in Tumbler Ridge

00:00 - Episode introduction and recap of recent convention experiences
01:08 - Conservative convention insights and leader support trends
04:36 - Electoral participation and convention demographics
07:33 - MPs rejecting pay increases and examples of public service
09:21 - Internal party conflicts and upcoming by-elections
12:53 - Parliamentary cooperation, government stability, and potential elections
15:08 - Recent changes and debates around Canada's electric vehicle policies
19:26 - The tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge and national response
32:31 - Presidential reactions, media conduct, and community mourning
37:35 - The importance of mental health awareness and ongoing discussions
38:15 - Closing remarks and call to reflection on recent events

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In our new series, THE BIG STORY, we look at the major news stories happening around the world.

Our first conversation delves into the complexities of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in the United States with the women of Pantsuit Politics, Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland. We explore ICE's origins, functions, and the political controversies surrounding it. The discussion highlights the shifts in immigration policy under different administrations, the militarization of immigration enforcement, and the impact of media and public perception on the agency's operations.

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2026 has already been wild -- how are you feeling?

We do a dive into everything that has happened globally in 2026 including Venezuela, Iran, Davos and Carney's trip to China and Qatar.

Chapters

00:00
Leadership in Crisis: Carney's Davos Speech

02:53
Contrasting Leadership Styles: Carney vs. Trump

05:25
Canada's Global Positioning: Middle Power Dynamics

08:11
Navigating Trade Relationships: The China Deal

10:57
The EV Controversy: Balancing Trade and Domestic Interests

13:52
Military Preparedness: The Reality of U.S. Relations

16:41
The Future of Canadian Sovereignty: A Call to Action

23:03
Trump's Controversial Strategies and Backlash

24:23
Canada's Presence at Davos: A Pop Star Moment

31:20
Venezuela's Political Turmoil and Global Implications

41:40
Political Landscape in Canada: Upcoming Challenges and Changes

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Our federal election pod band is back! We welcome back Hannah Thibedeau and Kathleen Monk join us this week to talk about the tumultuous political landscape in Canada throughout 2025 and share predictions for politics in 2026!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! - Amanda & Rachael

Programming note: We will be back with a new episode on January 23rd 2026!

Chapters

00:00
Political Whiplash in Canada

03:01
The Story of 2025: Turbulence and Change

05:39
Mark Carney: The New Political Force

08:41
Pierre Poliev: Leadership Challenges

11:36
Opposition Dynamics: NDP and Bloc Quebecois

14:27
Looking Ahead: The Future of Canadian Politics

21:06
The Importance of Cooperation in Canadian Politics

23:49
The Future of the NDP and Leadership Choices

26:27
Provincial Politics and Their Impact on Federal Dynamics

29:30
Provincial Leaders and Their Influence

31:50
Looking Ahead to 2026: Predictions and Concerns

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Katie Telford, former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, reflects on her extensive political career, the evolution of Canadian politics, and the challenges faced during her time as Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister.

The conversation includes the rise of Trudeau, the impact of the pandemic, and the political tensions surrounding the convoy protests. Telford shares insights on leadership, the importance of diversity in politics, and her personal reflections on navigating a demanding career in public service.

Chapters

00:00
Reflections on a Year of Change

02:45
The Early Political Journey

05:28
Defining Values and Political Alignment

08:00
The Rise of Justin Trudeau

10:59
Navigating the 2015 Election

13:36
The Significance of Gender Parity in Cabinet

16:20
Cannabis Policy and Its Implications

19:20
Challenges and Controversies

21:51
Leading Through a Global Pandemic

37:29
Navigating Communication During the Pandemic

40:21
The Pressure of Vaccine Distribution

42:31
Addressing Vaccine Mandate Opposition

45:09
The Invocation of the Emergencies Act

48:12
Toxicity in Politics and Its Impact

55:37
Leadership Challenges and Political Dynamics

01:01:31
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

01:08:31
Reflections on Achievements and Future Directions

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LIVE FROM THE EMPIRE CLUB OF CANADA!

The conversation focuses on the pressing housing crisis in Canada, emphasizing the need for affordable housing and innovative construction methods. Ana Bailão, CEO of Build Canada Homes, discusses the importance of collaboration among government, private sector, and non-profits to address the challenges in the housing market. The discussion highlights the urgency of action, the role of skilled workers, and the necessity of a coordinated approach to housing and infrastructure development.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Acknowledgments

01:35
The Housing Crisis in Canada

04:26
Building Canada's Future: The Role of Labor

07:22
The Need for Affordable Housing

10:00
Innovations in Housing Construction

12:39
The Role of Build Canada Homes

15:17
Collaboration and Partnerships for Housing Solutions

18:14
The Future of Housing in Canada

20:55
Closing Remarks and Call to Action

31:23
The Economic Case for Housing Investment

32:12
Accelerating Housing Development

35:00
Building Partnerships for Housing Solutions

37:51
Vision for Affordable Housing

39:43
Transitional Housing Initiatives

43:44
Personal Commitment to Housing

46:06
Success Metrics for Housing Initiatives

47:42
Creating Complete Communities

Support the show

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Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!