Shows
The HouseOpposition backbench passes more bills than National backbenchMembers' bills can come from any backbench MP. Usually, successful government bills far outnumber opposition bills – but not this parliament. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
2025-08-2004 min
The BackbenchWhat Are You Still Doing Here?!The Backbench has moved!Episodes of The Backbench have been available on the Canadaland feed for a few months now, alongside lots of other great content — from original reporting to media criticism to our brand-new support-only show. Starting now, The Backbench feed (this one!) will no longer be publishing new episodes, but the show lives on! You can still find new episodes of this show every Tuesday on Canadaland.Just search “Canadaland” in your podcast player of choice, and we’ll see you there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.co...
2025-07-1702 minThe BackbenchLooking for The Backbench? We’ve moved!Since the end of last year, episodes of The Backbench have been available on the Canadaland feed, alongside lots of other great content — oftentimes featuring voices you may be familiar with from The Backbench. Starting in July 2025, The Backbench feed (this one!) will no longer be publishing new episodes, but you can still find new episodes of this show every Tuesday on Canadaland.Just search “Canadaland” in your podcast player of choice, and we’ll see you there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-07-0802 min
The Rundown by PoliticsHomeShould backbench MPs make laws?With the return of the bill on assisted dying next week we're unapologetically getting into the weeds of Parliamentary procedure for this episode, and looking at whether a Private Members Bill from a backbench MP is really the best way of passing such potentially important legislation. Two doyens of PMBs in UK policy circles; Dr Daniel Gover, Senior Lecturer in British Politics at Queen Mary University in London, and Dr Ruth Fox, director at the Hansard Society, help shine a light on a little understood, but sometimes hugely important, part of our legislative system, while Liberal Democrat MP Roz...
2024-11-2244 minThe BackbenchBackbench Catch UpIt’s summer time, and Parliament’s been out of session for 2 months. For this episode of the Backbench, host Mattea Roach is joined by an all-star panel of Riley Yesno, Emilie Nicolas, David Moscrop. With updates on stories you may have missed this summer. Did shutting down an illegal border at Roxham Road work? Have we taken any political moves on addressing foreign interference?We’ll look ahead at what you should be keeping your eye on once parliament returns. With a new cabinet on the hill, what change can we expect? How well is our Co...
2023-08-2240 min
The BackbenchThe Backbench Live: A Year in ReviewOn December 14th, we brought The Backbench to you LIVE and in-person from the Hot Docs Cinema in Toronto. It was an evening of “serious” political discourse and endless laughs. Our host Mattea Roach and our expert panelists, Emilie Nicolas, David Moscrop, and Murad Hemmadi unpacked the seriously eventful year that was 2022 – from faulty infrastructure, to the Pope’s visit, to our 2023 political wish list, and more. Taking inspiration from David Moscrop's powerful questions: Show of hands....is anyone here a supporter? If you want to hear a special and hilarious extended cut of the eve...
2022-12-2747 min
The BackbenchMeet Mattea Roach, Our New Host! (Teaser)We’re thrilled to announce that Mattea Roach will be hosting the brand new season of the Backbench. She’s best known for her 23-game winning streak on Jeopardy!, but Mattea also has a keen interest in politics and has a background in sexual diversity studies, political science, and women and gender studies.In this teaser episode, Mattea is joined with Backbench Producer Aviva Lessard and Associate Producer Noor Azrieh for a sneak peak at what they hope to accomplish in the new season. Support CANADALAND: https://canadaland.com/join Hosted on Aca...
2022-09-0604 min
The BackbenchBackbench: The Guantanamo Diary with Special Guest Mohamedou Ould SlahiJoin Caitlin Wickham and Quinn Farr as they interview former Guantanamo Bay detainee Mohamedou Ould Slahi.Detained for 14 years by the American government, Mr Ould Slahi sits down with the Backbench for an exclusive 10-minute interview. We talk about his motivation to write Guantanamo Diaries and his experience at the American Detention centre.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/the-backbench/message
2022-03-2410 minThe BackbenchTeaser: We're going weekly!For the next few months, The Backbench is going to bring you weekly episodes!Expect us to chat with those who are impacted by or impacting what’s happening in Ottawa. We want to put the people back in politics so if you're either of those categories, get in touch at backbench@canadaland.com.Don't worry - We’ll still be bringing you the panel you’ve come to know and love.Our first episode drops next Tuesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privac...
2022-03-0901 minThe BackbenchBackbench: The Theory Behind the Headlines ft. Dr Patrick TheinerThe Backbench is back! Join Carter Wickham and Quinn Farr as they go through the week's news, looking at politics with a mission to examine the political landscape, while at the same time having a good time. For this episode, University of Edinburgh Professor, Dr Patrick Theiner, looks at the 'Theory behind the headlines.' We look at various international topics from COP26 to Taiwan to America's quest to be a world player, again. Check out our previous seasons and blog by visiting our website: http://www.backbenchpodcast.com--- Send in a voi...
2021-12-0439 min
The BackbenchIntroducing Our New Show: The BackbenchDig into Canadian politics from the best seats in the House.Host Fatima Syed welcomes our rotating roster of panelists from across the country: Celina Caesar-Chavannes, Jason Markusoff, Drew Brown, Emilie Nicolas, Jaskaran Sandhu, Murad Hemmadi, Leena Minifie, and Stuart Thomson. Stay on top of things through sharp commentary and incisive analysis.Drops every other Tuesday, starting May 4th.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2021-04-2701 minThe BackbenchThe Backbench - Interview w/Sir Lindsey HoyleOn this episode of the Backbench, Jonas and Carter interview the Speaker of the House Commons, Sir Lindsey Hoyle. We talk to the Speaker about the effects of Covid-19 on his role, partisanship and the US Capital Insurrection. Check out our blog on backbenchpodcast.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/the-backbench/message
2021-02-0327 minThe BackbenchBackbench Trailer2021 is starting off the right way with a relaunch of Edinburgh Political Union's podcast; The Backbench. Join Carter Wickham and Jonas Dein throughout the year as they interview academics, politicians and students, discuss current political affairs and explore the significance of world events! Check us out on backbenchpodcast.com for our new student blog. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/the-backbench/message
2021-01-1802 min
The BackbenchEp. 70 - Who's Afraid Of The COVID Alert App?Can you guess which OPPO host has downloaded the app? Citizen Lab's Christopher Parsons joins us to assuage privacy concerns and/or irrational fears about the federal government's new app to contain the coronavirus.Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast.While OPPO is not made using supporter funds, CANADALAND's other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inform...
2020-08-1137 min
The BackbenchEp. 69 - QAnon Comes To CanadaCars, machinery, and now conspiracy theories. The U.S. continues its proud tradition of exports to Canada as QAnon gains traction north of the border. Marc-André Argentino joins to walk us through the origins and future of QAnon in Canada.Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast.This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND's other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener...
2020-07-2843 min
The BackbenchEp. 68 - Why Working Moms Are Dreading SeptemberThe pandemic has already had a disproportionate impact on women, especially those with children. But how much worse could that be if schools don’t reopen soon? Dr. Sylvia Fuller joins to explain. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and Rotman School of Management. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for pr...
2020-07-1441 min
The BackbenchEp. 67 - Everybody Else Is Abolishing The Police, So Why Can’t We?As calls to defund continue to grow, why not imagine what Canada would look like without police? Robyn Maynard joins us to unpack the idea. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more info
2020-06-3041 min
The BackbenchEp. 66 - Get Me Outta ScheerNow that Jen has thrown out her sourdough starter, it’s time to start paying attention to the race to replace Andrew Scheer. James Moore joins us to run through the field of candidates and explain where the Conservatives stand on the eve of the first party debate. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. CORRECTION: This episode incorrec...
2020-06-1641 min
The BackbenchEp. 65 - Stuck In the Middle With Meng Wanzhou China and the US are facing off in what’s being dubbed a new Cold War. And Canada’s stuck in a tight spot. Last week, a BC judge ruled that Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou’s charges meet the bar of “double criminality,” which means she’s one step closer to being extradited to the US. China is not happy. To dig into what’s at stake, we’re joined by Philip Calvert, a former diplomat in China and Senior Fellow with the China Institute of the University of Alberta. Get In touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @o...
2020-06-0236 min
The BackbenchEp. 64 - An Epidemic Of RacismViolent attacks on racialized people are on the rise in Canada — especially against those who look East Asian. We’re joined by reporter Joanna Chiu to discuss what happens when we conflate the actions of a government with individual people. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/li...
2020-05-1941 min
BackchatDissentDissent within minority communities is often not only badly reported in the media but is actually actively silenced under the guise of political correctness. On the final episode of this season of Backchat, Podcast Editor Mihir Joshi talks to Maryam Namazie from the One Law for All campaign group. They discuss honour based violence, blasphemy and the popular revolt against the Iranian Regime that has been raging for the past year.
2020-05-0931 min
The BackbenchEp. 63 - Under Cover Of CovidWhat does the new ban on assault-style firearms in Canada mean? And what’s going on with the dog-whistle racism in the Conservative leadership race? Zain Velji co-hosts. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priva...
2020-05-0527 minBackchatBack to the Future: Looking Back at Political PredictionsJoin Podcast Editor Mihir Joshi and Backbench General Editor Tom Westgarth for a look back at how their predictions they made in October have fared in what has been a tumultuous year. To help you navigate this mammoth podcast here are some timestamps: Tory engineering for the election : 2.40, the United Kingdom's future relationship with the European Union: 13.00, the future of the Eurozone: 15.45, the future of the Culture War: 20.50, the changing nature of the Conservative Party: 29.50, the future battle over resources: 37.00, the West's relationship with China: 41.44
2020-04-2555 min
The BackbenchEp. 62 - Why This Recession Is Hitting Women HarderCan Canada get diaper pail-ready? We’re joined by economist Dr. Lindsay Tedds to help make sense of the long-term economic impacts this recession could have on Canada. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar, Audible, and HelloFresh. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See a...
2020-04-2141 minBackchatWhat is Left?Keir Starmer is the new leader of the Labour Party but the ideology it represents if over 100 years old. In this episode of Backchat we discuss what the left means, what the left represents and what the future of the left might bring in the United Kingdom and Europe.
2020-04-111h 03
The BackbenchEp. 61 - White Trash Hello KittyIt’s everywhere. It’s all anyone’s talking about. It’s dominating headlines and social media feeds. So of course we’re going to talk about Tiger King. There’s also been plenty of erratic behaviour created by the pandemic, from volatile markets to a volatile Albertan health minister and Jen’s emergent prepper tendencies. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and Audible. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a...
2020-04-0730 minBackchatPandemic.Even a fortnight ago a total lockdown of the United Kingdom seemed implausible and unprecedented, but here we are in the 5th day of a lockdown with no real end in sight. In today's episode Mihir chats to Sindhu Ram an LSE Masters student who is currently self-isolating about the government, the media and our communities have responded to the challenges provided by the Covid-19 pandemic.
2020-03-2844 min
The BackbenchEp. 60 - A Virus Designed To Test Society’s Weak PointsAs the realities of COVID-19 begin to take hold in Canada, the strains on our society become most visible where we're most vulnerable. A veteran SARS reporter, Ian Young of The South China Morning Post joins to help put it all in perspective. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and FreshBooks. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tec...
2020-03-2437 minBackchatCulture WarCulture has taken a whole new political dimension in the past decade with Brexit, the election of Donald Trump and many other political events have unleashed a revolution in the way campaigns, governance and the media are conducted. Today on Backchat we have Mihir Joshi and Eleanor Longman-Rood, a regular contributor to Backbench, to talk about these critical issues.
2020-03-1434 min
The BackbenchEp. 59 - Double Trouble: Oil's Burst BubbleWhat does the largest single-day drop in the price of oil in almost two decades mean for Canada’s economy? How will it affect growing frustration in Alberta? And have you washed your hands since you started reading this? Wash your hands. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and FreshBooks. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See...
2020-03-1027 min
The BackbenchIntroducing: Cool MulesA new investigative series about the cocaine smuggling ring inside Vice Media. To hear episode 2 right now, subscribe to Cool Mules. Or get all six episodes ad-free for $5/month by clicking here.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2020-03-0235 minBackchatWhere is journalism heading?It's all change at Backbench! What better way to say hello to our new Editor-in-Chief Maheen Behrana than to have her on another exciting episode of Backchat! On today's episode, we discuss the future of British journalism, the future of Backbench and how the journalistic community can help uncover the truth in these confusing times.
2020-02-2925 min
The BackbenchEp. 58 - A Seizure of Political Power In Wet'suwet'en TerritoryOver the course of a week, Trudeau changed his tune from promising patience and cooperation with Wet'suwet'en land defenders, to asserting the rail blockades must be removed. Why the sudden 180? Plus, Teck withdrew its application for a $20 billion mine project. And four MPs have released the Buffalo Declaration, a manifesto demanding more respect for Alberta. This episode is sponsored by WealthBar, FreshBooks and listeners like you. To support our work and get ad-free podcasts, go to Patreon.com/canadaland Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for pr...
2020-02-2538 minBackchatVoice of TibetThe Tibet issue has been around for decades with no sign of a resolution. On Backchat this week, Mihir, speaks to Campaigns Manager John Jones from the Free Tibet movement. He provides a fascinating insight into this very secretive part of the world. Amongst the issues discussed are the political situation in Tibet, attacks on the Buddhist faith and the future of the region.
2020-02-1527 min
The BackbenchEp. 57 - Peter MacKay's Yoga Tweet Apology TourThe race to replace Andrew Scheer as Conservative leader is on. Who are the key players, and what issues do they face in their bid for the job? For insight, we’re joined by former Harper strategist Ken Boessenkool. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and FreshBooks. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio...
2020-02-1132 minBackchatOur Beautiful GameFootball is the world's most popular sport but is there something going wrong with the beautiful game? Allegations of corruption, tournaments in places with questionable human rights records and spiralling ticket prices have hampered the game for the past few years. Listen to Mihir Joshi and George Casci talk about how to salvage football to ensure that it can truly become a force for good in the world.
2020-02-0131 min
The BackbenchEp. 56 - A Huawei Executive Defends Their RecordWhat are Huawei's plans in Canada? How can we be sure our data is safe with them? And did they pay for the protesters outside the Meng Wangzhou hearing? We’re joined by Alykhan Velshi, Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Huawei Canada, to talk all things Huawei. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by FreshBooks, Audible, and HelloFresh. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the s...
2020-01-2839 minBackchatAre Labour doomed?Rebecca Long-Bailey, Keir Starmer, Jess Philips and the rest of the contenders have been jostling for what many would call the poisoned chalise of the Labour Leadership. Listen to Editor Mihir Joshi and General Editor Tom Westgarth dissect what they have seen in the campaign and whether any one of them can save the Labour Party from the electoral difficulties that lie ahead.
2020-01-1818 min
The BackbenchEp. 55 - Canada Gets Kicked In The TeethJen Gerson and Sandy Garossino break down where exactly Canada fits amid the ongoing hostilities between Iran and the U.S., and then discuss the prospect of a royal relocation. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by WealthBar and FreshBooks. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted o...
2020-01-1638 min
The BackbenchEp. 54 - The Biggest Resignation Of The YearAndrew “Everybody’s Second Choice” Scheer is no longer the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. OPPO unpacks the latest in Western Alienation and takes a deep dive into the most significant political resignation of the year. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by FreshBooks, Wealthbar, and Audible. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. Additional music: Hooky with Sloane by Bird Creek Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported...
2019-12-1736 minBackchatGENERAL ELECTION SPECIAL !And so there we have it. No longer will we have to hear 'Get Brexit Done', 'For The Many Not The Few' and all the other cheesy election slogans. Boris Johnson has emerged from the General Election victorious and the Backbench Team are here to guide you through the election with (what were) live reactions from different times on election night and an in-depth analysis of what this seismic election means for the future of our nation. Join us for 40 minutes of (not to gloat) but the best election analysis without any of the gimmicks! Just to help you na...
2019-12-1349 min
The BackbenchEp. 53 - OPPO Goes NuclearBy popular demand, we take a look at nuclear energy in Canada. Plus a check-in with the bubbling oil sands of resentment that is Western Alienation Corner, and OPPO’s newest segment: Andrew Scheer Leadership Deathwatch. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by FreshBooks and Audible. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for priva...
2019-12-1040 min
The BackbenchEp. 52 - The Guy Behind Ontario ProudA very special interview with the person behind your least favourite meme pages, Ontario Proud and Canada Proud. Plus, an update on Canada-China relations by way of an interview with two Hong Kong pro-democracy figures. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by FreshBooks and Audible. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. ᐧSupport the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. Se...
2019-12-0348 minBackchatConversations with a wavering voterTo continue our Conversations With series, this week we have John Abiona former Features Editor for The Boar and reporter at The Sun to talk about who he is considering voting for and why. We also discuss the state of the election campaigns and why the increasing tribal nature of our politics is troubling.
2019-11-3020 min
The BackbenchEp. 51 - Ministry Of PanderingWe take a look at the Liberal government’s cabinet appointments, check in on the scandals and simmering resentment in Canada's "West," and read some highlights from the listener mailbag. This episode of OPPO is brought to you by FreshBooks and WealthBar. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast. Additional music: Hooky with Sloane by Bird CreekCreative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/…Music provided by FreeMusic109 https://youtube.com/FreeMusic109...
2019-11-2635 min
The BackbenchEp. 50 - 50 Things We Want From The 43rd ParliamentFor our 50th episode, we have 50 demands for the government. What's on your wish list? Email oppo@canadalandshow.com or tweet @OPPOcast. Support Canadaland Media at patreon.com/canadaland This episode is sponsored by FreshBooks (freshbooks.com) and WealthBar (wealthbar.com/canadaland). Additional music: Hooky with Sloane by Bird Creek Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Music provided by FreeMusic109 https://youtube.com/FreeMusic109Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-11-1945 minBackchatConversations with a Liberal Democrat voterWhy do we vote for who we vote for? It's a question that's struck people as disparate as Dominic Cummings to Aristotle! At Backchat, over the next few weeks, we're going to try answer this question! Today we have Backbench Editor Tom Mitchell on the podcast to explain why he will be voting Liberal Democrat come December.
2019-11-1621 min
The BackbenchEp. 49 - Lisa Raitt’s Conservative Party AutopsyThe former deputy leader of the Conservative Party just lost her seat. She opens up about what went wrong in the election. Support Canadaland Media at patreon.com/canadaland. This episode was sponsored by Freshbooks (freshbooks.com/oppo) and Audible (audible.ca/canada). Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter @OPPOcast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-11-1249 min
The BackbenchEp. 48 - Useful LosersA look at the smaller parties' fates, a farewell to Elizabeth May, and the cabinet prediction that's giving Justin nightmares. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter/Facebook @OPPOcast. See OPPO live at the Hot Docs Podcast Festival on November 7. Buy tickets here. Support Canadaland Media at patreon.com/canadaland. This episode was sponsored by Freshbooks (freshbooks.com/oppo) and WealthBar (wealthbar.com/canadaland).Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-11-0542 minBackchatHave we left yet?And it's Groundhog Day again! Brexit has been delayed for another three months and we have Professor Anand Menon, Director of UK in a Changing Europe to talk about Brexit (obviously!), the nature of our democratic politics and the future of the Union.
2019-11-0215 min
The BackbenchEp. 47 - Is Scheer Done?Jen's back! And she's kept a list of the worst election moments. Plus, will the Conservatives kick out Andrew Scheer? And what the rest of Canada needs to know about #Wexit. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast. Support Canadaland Media at patreon.com/canadaland.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-10-2942 min
The BackbenchEp. 46 - About Last NightOPPO breaks down the election results from the midst of the Liberal victory (sort of) party. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast. The episode was sponsored by the new book, Highway of Tears. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this episode said that the Liberals picked up a seat in Northern Saskatchewan. That seat ended up going to the Conservatives. That detail has been removed from the show.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2019-10-2217 minBackchatWhere did we come from, where did we go?: An introduction to Series 3We have had a crazy summer of politics. New Prime Minister, a new dog at Downing Street, prorogation, de-prorogation, lying to the Queen, it really does seem like we have fallen into a parallel universe where the normal rules have been flipped. Mihir Joshi, the new Backchat Editor, sat down with Tom Westgarth, one of the new Backbench Editors, to discuss what has happened over the summer and what might happen in the months to come.
2019-10-1928 min
The BackbenchEp. 45 - We Haven't Gotten To Truth YetIt's a special pre-election bonus OPPO! We talk about the party platforms and issues that actually matter to Indigenous peoples this election. Guests: Ryan McMahon, comedian and host of the Thunder Bay podcast. @RMComedy Karyn Pugliese, Nieman Journalism Fellow, former executive producer at APTN, and future journalism professor at Ryerson University. @karyn_pugliese From the show: Read Kenneth Jackson's APTN investigation into deaths in the child welfare system here. This episode is sponsored by Freshbooks: https://www.freshbooks.com/Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast...
2019-10-1842 min
The BackbenchEp. 44 - OPPO's Big Queer Foreign Policy Extravaganza!What do the federal parties say about LGBTQ issues? (No we're not talking about gay marriage). And uh...why is no one talking about foreign policy? Guests: Erica Lenti, senior editor at Xtra, and National Post columnist Colby Cosh. Follow Erica at @ericalenti and find Colby @colbycosh. Read Xtra's story on their LGBTQ2 candidate survey here. Read Canadaland's reporting on the unfounded Trudeau story rumours here. Tell us what you think of the show! Email oppo@canadalandshow.com or tweet @OPPOcast. This episode was sponsored by: Audible: https://www.audible.ca/canada Freshbooks: https://www.freshbooks.com/ Highway of Tears by Jessica M...
2019-10-1546 min
The BackbenchEp. 43 - The First Official Leaders' DebateWe survived debate night! Mostly. Plus, we break down the parties' environmental platforms with energy and environmental economist Andrew Leach. Get in touch at OPPO@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-10-0846 min
The BackbenchEp. 42 - Coasts With The MostsWhy does Trudeau want an underwater tunnel to Newfoundland? Who has the biggest battle in British Columbia? OPPO goes east and west for an election view from Canada's edges. Guests: Drew Brown, editor of The Independent, and Melanie Green, reporter for the Vancouver Star. Contact OPPO at Oppo@canadalandshow.com and on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOCast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-10-0139 min
The BackbenchEp. 41 - Let's Talk Tech! ... And BlackfaceCould all those images of Trudeau in blackface open the door for a more meaningful campaign? And we talk Canada's growing tech scene. What's it done with federal money—and what are the parties talking about now? Murad Hemmadi, policy and tech reporter for The Logic, co-hosts. Read his piece on the parties' election promises around innovation here. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or find us on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i...
2019-09-2444 min
The BackbenchEp. 40 - A Modest Plan To Eat The RichThe campaign is on! Finally! Who won the first Trudeau-less debate? And why the other parties should actually listen to the NDP's wealth tax plan. National Post columnist Chris Selley co-hosts. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or find us on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast. Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-09-1742 min
The BackbenchEp. 39 - Who Has The Whitest Candidates? (It’s Not The PPC!)How representative are the federal party candidates (so far)? We crunched the numbers. And the meth crisis was a provincial election issue in Manitoba — here's why the rest of Canada should take note. Fatima Syed, investigate reporter with National Observer, guest hosts. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast. We relied on Global Winnipeg’s reporting on meth use in Manitoba. Read some of that coverage here: https://globalnews.ca/news/5826445/manitoba-election-meth/Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informatio...
2019-09-1033 min
The BackbenchEp. 38 - Our House In The Middle Of An ElectionHere's everything you missed in Canadian politics this summer. Plus, we talk housing with Employment Minister Patty Hajdu. And ... what's happening with the NDP? Note: The NDP did not respond to a request for comment regarding Sid Ryan's bid for candidacy. This episode was recorded on August 29, 2019. Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or find us on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-09-0332 min
The BackbenchEp. 37 - Is Jason Kenney Stoking Aberta Separatism?Alberta's premier wants a referendum on ... what exactly? And Justin Ling wants you to calm down about climate change "muzzling." Plus, meet some intriguing candidates to keep an eye on. P.S. OPPO has news! Get in touch at oppo@canadalandshow.com or find OPPO on Twitter and Facebook @OPPOcast.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-08-2738 min
The BackbenchEp.36 - Fake News Election PanicAfter the Mounties' massive manhunt for two murder suspects, Justin questions whether the RCMP's mandate is overstretched — and makes the case that their role in local policing should be an election issue. And with an election looming, there's a frenzy over fake news. But is it even a problem? And who's being served by this idea? From the show: The RCMP's thin red line: Is contract policing unsustainable? (Globe and Mail) Inside the impossible work of Canada’s biggest Indigenous police force (Maclean's) Twitter trolls stoked debates about immigrants and pipelines in Canada, data show (CBC News) Twitter bots boosted the tren...
2019-08-1335 min
The BackbenchEP. 35 - How Alberta Got Weed RightWhile some provinces are still trying to figure out booze, others have already gotten a good start on weed. Who’s doing sin best? Why do we keep hearing about the same four political operatives in Canada when none of them are good at winning? And unsolicited advice for who to blame next time you're woken up by a shrieking Amber Alert. This episode is brought to you by FreshBooks and The Big Story podcast. CORRECTION: We stated that cannabis is only available online in Manitoba. It is in fact available in...
2019-07-3034 min
The BackbenchEp.34 - Does Québec Get A Pass On Racism?Québec’s secularism bill is a godawful tragedy, the NDP’s platform leaves a lot to be desired, and Andrew Scheer is feeling cramped in Doug Ford’s clown car. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-07-1628 min
The BackbenchEp.33 - Don't Worry Britain, Stephen Harper Will Fix BrexitWho should be allowed to pay for political advertising in Canada? Conservative MP and Foreign Affairs Critic Erin O’Toole explains what’s wrong with the current set of rules. And things have gotten so bad in the United Kingdom that they’ve brought in noted public relations authority Stephen Harper to help broker Brexit. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on...
2019-07-0233 min
The BackbenchEp.32 - You Have No Constitutional Right To An AbortionWho better than a pregnant woman and a gay man to walk you through access to abortion in Canada? Then, Courtney Skye, research fellow at Yellowhead Institute, explains what most people missed in the recent MMIWG report. Finally, Justin yells at Trudeau for failing the queer community. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter. “Black Samba” by Juanitos is licensed under Creative Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for priv...
2019-06-1837 min
The BackbenchEp.31 - Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane PhilpottThe two most “difficult” women in Ottawa join us for an in-depth talk about policy, politics, the "most dysfunctional place" to work in the country, and that whole SNC-Lavalin thing. While OPPO is not made using Patreon funds, CANADALAND’s other shows rely on listener support. Please consider becoming a monthly supporter.Support the show: https://backbench.supercast.tech/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2019-06-0450 minBackchatCautiously Optimistic: End of Series TwoTo end the series, Natasha Livingstone sat down with Backbench's Editor-in-Chief Daniel Clark and Editor Tom Mitchell to chat about how politics has evolved since the podcast began last September. They discussed Trump’s unshakable resilience, the resurgence of the Lib Dems and asked if they're optimistic about the future.
2019-05-1831 minBackchatArrested for the EnvironmentSam Knights is 22 years old. Since joining Extinction Rebellion, he has attended meetings with Michael Gove and Sadiq Khan- and been arrested for gluing himself to a London hotel. Natasha Livingstone chatted to the young activist about his experiences and discussed criticisms of the movement.
2019-05-1125 minBackchatAn Epic ElectionThe Indian elections are the largest democratic exercise in history, with 900 million eligible voters. To find out more, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Faisal Devji, Professor of Indian History at the University of Oxford.
2019-05-0431 minBackchatWhat does Israel’s election mean for Palestine?The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is often accused of having no interest in resolving the conflict with Palestine. Following his re-election earlier this month, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Dr. Yaser Alashqar, to discuss how the election result will impact the Israel/Palestine conflict.
2019-04-2716 minBackchatWhy is homelessness getting worse?Official figures reveal that there has been a 165% increase in homelessness since 2010, but charities claim the number is much higher. To find out more, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Ruth Ehrlich, a policy officer for Shelter.
Useful contacts mentioned in the episode:
- www.streetlink.org.uk
- Shelter’s free helpline: 0808 800 4444
2019-04-2011 minBackchatDitch the DietFrom the high-protein diet to the juice cleanse, diet makers are profiting from the global obesity crisis. To find out more, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Dr Giles Yeo, a geneticist at Cambridge University and author of the best-selling book ‘Gene Eating’, who argues that genes are to blame when your jeans don’t fit.
2019-04-1318 minBackchatA Brexit Breakthrough?With Parliament not making any headway on Brexit, we experimented to see if Ellie Varley (Vice Chair for Brexit4Students and Conservative voter), Christopher Vince (Labour Councillor in Harlow) and Alisha Lewis (Community Activist for the Liverpool Liberal Democrats) could do a better job and find some common ground.
2019-04-0634 minBackchatWhy is Spain having a snap election?With the never-ending Brexit saga dragging on, you might not have noticed that Spain is having a snap election on the 28th April. To find out more, Natasha Livingstone chatted to Backbench writers Dom Griffiths and Sammy Russell.
2019-03-3022 minBackchatProblematic PrisonsAs Brexit consumes all political and media attention, important domestic issues are being overlooked. One of these topics is Prison reform. To find out more, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Graham Atkins, a researcher at the Institute for Government.
2019-03-2318 minBackchatA United Kingdom?Brexit has been making all the headlines again this week as Parliament rejected Theresa May’s deal for the *second* time and voted for an extension. But how does all this affect the Scots? To find out, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Backbench writers Sam Payne (from Hampshire) and Scott Blair (from Scotland ).
2019-03-1619 minBackchatBritain's Private School ProblemNatasha Livingstone sat down with Francis Green, co-author of the new book 'Engines of Privilege: Britain's Private School Problem', to discuss educational inequality and how Brexit could make abolishing the private system a little easier.
2019-03-0922 minBackchatGilets Jaunes: Unstoppable?With the ‘yellow vests’ protests entering their fourth month, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Anelise Borges, Paris correspondent for Euronews, to discover what the future holds for the 'gilets jeunes'.
2019-03-0231 minBackchatTIG- Terrific or Tragic?Backbench editors Calum Henderson and Abby King chat to Natasha Livingstone about The Independent Group and debate whether they represent a fresh start.
2019-02-2315 minBackchatThe Cliffhanger SummitOn the 27th February, Trump and Kim Jong-un will meet to discuss North Korean denuclearisation - but what will happen? To find out, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Dr Victor Cha, a former US government official and senior advisor at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies.
2019-02-1623 minBackchatGeneration BurnoutWe often hear about the struggles facing millennials, but what about generation Z? Backbench editor Lilian Fawcett and writer Alisa Anwar chat to Natasha Livingstone about burnout and ask whether it is a generational issue.
2019-02-0918 minBackchatWhy be a young Tory?Conservative voters under 25 are a minority in Britain, so what makes them different? To find out, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Tom Harwood, a 22-year-old journalist for the right-wing news site Guido Fawkes.
2019-02-0221 minBackchatWho's in charge?In the first episode of series two, Backbench editors Maheen Behrana and Lauren White chat to Natasha Livingstone about the establishment, Owen Jones' twitter spats and Larry the Cat.
2019-01-2620 minBackchatBONUS EPISODE: Brave New WorldNatasha Livingstone chats to Carl Miller, author of The Death of the Gods – a book which explores new forms of power in today’s digital world.
2018-12-1521 minBackchatBest of Series OneNatasha Livingstone sits down with Backbench director Sam Bright and editor-in-chief Daniel Clark to moan about Brexit and reflect on their favourite moments of series one.
2018-12-0823 minBackchatTruth: The First CasualtyNatasha Livingstone chats with Peter Greste, an award-winning foreign correspondent who was imprisoned in Egypt for 400 days in 2013, about the war on journalism and truth.
2018-12-0114 minBackchatBrexit: What’s Happening?!To bring clarity to this week’s madness, Natasha Livingstone spoke to Dr Simon Usherwood from ‘The UK in a Changing Europe’ about immigration, Chihuahuas and Theresa May’s next steps.
2018-11-2427 minBackchatBad EducationFollowing this week's Brexit bedlam, Natasha Livingstone chats to Backbench writer Alisa Anwar about how the lack of political education prevents young people from engaging in public affairs.
2018-11-1712 minBackchatSaudi Arabia: Friend or Foe?Natasha Livingstone gives context to the Khashoggi murder and Backbench editor Ali Goldman debates whether the UK is diplomatic or cowardly with writer Maheen Behrana.
2018-11-1023 minBackchatCrushing the midtermsOn 6th November, American voters will go to the polls two years after Trump's election. In conversation with Marisa Kabas, a New York-based writer and activist, Natasha Livingstone unpacks the US midterms.
2018-11-0329 minBackchatWTF?Natasha Livingstone chats with Kishan Koria, producer of ITV’s Peston and researcher for Robert Peston’s book, WTF?. A former Backbench editor, Kishan shares his political insights and offers tips for breaking into the media.
2018-10-2626 minBackchatSocial media's hidden mental health dilemmaNatasha Livingstone chats to Jess Insall and Lauren White about Backbench's investigation into social media and mental health, which found kindness in unexpected places.
2018-10-2022 minBackchatMarketing MayismCalum Henderson, Mahdi Assan and Natasha Livingstone discuss Tory party bluffs and whether Theresa May is in line for next year's Strictly Come Dancing.
2018-10-1320 minBackchatSpecial Guest: Lord Andrew AdonisThe Labour peer and former cabinet minister spells out his plan to keep Britain in the EU and save young people from being "stuck on an island with Jacob Rees-Mogg and Nigel Farage."
2018-10-0621 minBackchatThe revolution will be CorbynisedNatasha Livingstone explains the Labour conference 101, getting further insight from editor and delegate Abby King alongside Backbench writer Leuan Cox.
2018-09-2826 minBackchatPlaying PoliticsTom Mitchell and Natasha Livingstone discuss student politics and debate whether the NUS is an "irrelevant echo chamber".
2018-09-2313 minBackchatA dog's BrexitSam Bright, Daniel Clark and Natasha Livingstone discuss why Mike Pence definitely (maybe) wrote *that* New York Times op-ed and how Brexit will affect tourist Chihuahuas.
2018-09-1632 minBackchatIntroducing BackchatWhat is Backchat all about? Backbench Director Sam Bright provides an insight.
2018-09-1100 min