Shows
Inside Policy TalksJohn Ioannidis: What's shaken public confidence in science?Science is often seen as the gold standard in policymaking – objective, rigorous, and self-correcting. But what happens when the science itself is uncertain, contradictory, or unreproducible?Over the past two decades, concerns about replication, statistical misuse, and institutional bias have shaken public confidence in science – from medicine to psychology to public health. On the other hand, institutional confidence in science seems unshakeable, defensive, and resistant to change. And with rising polarization and decreasing trust in institutions, the need for both epistemic humility and stronger standards of evidence has never been clearer.To discuss this, Dr. John...2025-07-2457 minInside Policy TalksHow mortgage fraud costs Canadians and fuels organized crimeIn this episode, Peter Copeland, deputy director of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Domestic Policy Program, speaks with Cameron Field, a Toronto Police veteran and financial crimes expert. Field explains that there are three types of mortgage fraud in Canada. First, there's fraud for shelter, whereby some homebuyers committ fraud to obtain a mortgage. Next, there's fraud for profit, in which actors in the mortgage industry act fraudulently in order to complete a sale. Finally, there's fraud committed by organized crime, which sees mortgages used as a way to launder money. Field describes how these types of fraud work, and their...2025-05-2241 minInside Policy TalksReconciliation at risk? Data shows spike in church arsons after unmarked grave reports in CanadaKen Coates, director of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Indigenous Affairs Program, is joined by journalist and economist Edgardo Sepulveda, an expert data storyteller. Sepulveda's new study for MLI analyzed data for church arsons in Canada and around the world. He found that following reports in 2021 of unmarked graves at residential schools, Canada saw a spike in church arsons compared to other Anglosphere countries, suggesting a correlation to news of the unmarked graves. He says the lack of serious policy response puts reconciliation at risk. Please like, share, and subscribe to Inside Policy Talks for thought-provoking analysis on the key issues...2025-05-1632 minInside Policy TalksIndigenous students thrive earning degrees in their communities: Ken Coates & Sheila NorthWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future! In this episode, Ken Coates, director of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Indigenous Affairs Program, speaks with Sheila North, a journalist, storyteller, and former Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak. When it comes to post-secondary education, North tells Coates that some of the greatest successes happen when programs are designed to allow students to complete a large part of their studies while remaining in their home community. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to Inside Policy Talks for more thought-provoking analysis on the key...2025-05-0936 minInside Policy TalksHow provincial trade barriers rip off Canadians: Peter Copeland & Ryan ManuchaWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute, sits down with Ryan Manucha, a leading expert on interprovincial trade.Manucha offers a compelling vision of how Canada's provinces can recognize each other's professional licenses, business certifications, and regulations to unlock billions in economic potential and strengthen Canada's economic unity in an increasingly complex global environment.Be sure to share, and subscribe to Inside Policy Talks for more thought-provoking...2025-04-2951 minInside Policy TalksCan Europe guarantee its own security? Balkan Devlen and Peter HefeleWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, Balkan Devlen, Studio Fellow at the Macdonald Laurier Institute, sits down with Peter Hefele, Policy Director at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies.Hefele pulls back the curtain on Europe's high-stakes challenges: Can Germany reboot its economic engine? Will Europe finally build a credible defence capability? And where does Canada fit into this complex geopolitical puzzle?From Germany's political chess match to Europe's urgent defense overhaul, this episode is a front-row seat to...2025-04-1741 minInside Policy TalksCan the CBC survive without government subsidies? Peter Copeland and Peter MenziesWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute (MLI), sits down with Peter Menzies, MLI Senior Fellow, former publisher of the Calgary Herald, and past Vice Chair of the CRTC.Menzies offers a provocative analysis of the CBC's future, challenging its current funding model and exploring radical solutions for Canadian public broadcasting. With the federal election looming, he examines how government subsidies impact media trust, journalistic objectivity, and the broader news...2025-04-1557 minInside Policy TalksTackling Canada's housing crunch: Peter Copeland and Ross McKitrickWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, sits with Ross McKitrick, professor of economics at the University of Guelph.In a recent commentary series for MLI, McKitrick looks at income levels, demography and population change, and housing construction and price data, from the 1970s and ‘90s onwards, to get a sense of what’s causing the ‘housing crunch’, as he calls it.McKitrick explains that the issues confronting Canada i...2025-04-0844 minInside Policy TalksHow are First Nations' fish farms transforming the West Coast?: Ken Coates and Dallas SmithWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this compelling episode, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Director of Indigenous Affairs, Ken Coates, sits with Dallas Smith, spokesperson for the First Nations for Finfish Stewardship (FNFFS) and a member of the Tlowitsis First Nations in Campbell River, B.C., to unpack the nuanced world of salmon aquaculture on British Columbia's coastal regions.Smith provides a fascinating insider's perspective on the salmon farming industry, discussing its evolution, economic importance, and critical role in supporting remote First Nations communities....2025-03-2133 minInside Policy TalksMore regulations, fewer families—explaining North America's housing crisis: Peter Copeland and Tim CarneyWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada today!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute, sits down with Tim Carney, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.In their discussion, Carney provides a comprehensive overview of the alarming trends around declining marriage rates, birth rates, and community belonging across North America. He shares insights from his extensive research, examining how government regulations, cultural shifts, and the erosion of civil society contribute to these challenges.Carney...2025-03-1241 minInside Policy TalksDoes salmon farming have a future in Canada?: Ken Coates and Linda SamsWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Ken Coates sits down with Linda Sams, biologist with over 37 years of business and management experience in the aquaculture sector, and an expert in the Canadian salmon farming industry. In this insightful discussion, Sams shares her extensive background and experience in salmon aquaculture, and provides an inside look at the evolution of salmon farming, the ecological challenges the industry has addressed, and the vital role it plays in supporting rural coastal communities.2025-03-0432 minInside Policy TalksHappily ever after? The case for marriage in Canada: Peter Copeland, Andrea Mrozek & Peter Jon MitchellWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we dive into the ideas and policies shaping Canada's future!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute, sits down with Cardus' Senior Fellow Andrea Mrozek and Program Director Peter Jon Mitchell.The discussion covers the trends and social effects surrounding marriage and family formation in Canada - Mrozek and Mitchell provide a comprehensive overview of the declining marriage rates and their implications, from poor economic and social well-being to the challenges young adults face in starting families....2025-02-1959 minInside Policy TalksBritish Columbia's salmon farmers caught in the net: Ken Coates and Brian KingzettWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we discuss the ideas and policies shaping Canada today!In this episode, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Ken Coates sits down with Brian Kingzett, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farming Association, to discuss the future of salmon farming in British Columbia. Kingzett provides a comprehensive overview of the salmon farming industry - its history, economic impact, and the complex relationships between Indigenous communities and environmental groups.He shares his concerns about the federal government's decision to ban open-net pen salmon farming by 2024, and emphasizes the vital role salmon...2025-02-1139 minInside Policy TalksIdentity politics and the capture of canadian research funding: Peter Copeland and Dave SnowWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we discuss the ideas and policies shaping Canada today!In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute, sits down with Dave Snow, MLI senior fellow and associate professor at the University of Guelph, to discuss the growing influence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at Canada's major federal research granting agencies.The discussion delves into how DEI policies impact intellectual diversity, as the language of DEI becomes increasingly pervasive in research funding guidelines.Professor Snow provides a...2025-02-0552 minInside Policy TalksNavigating 2025, foreign policy in the year ahead: Double Trouble with Balkan Devlen and Jonathan Berkshire MillerWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, hosts Balkan Devlen and Jonathan Berkshire Miller look at the year ahead in foreign policy and global security. They talk about Trump's return to the Whitehouse, shifting global alliances, a dangerous year ahead for Ukraine, and much more.The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you...2025-01-2334 minInside Policy TalksEmpowering First Nations' economic growth in Canada: Ken Coates and Kody PennerWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we discuss the most pressing policy issues shaping Canada's indigenous economic development!In this episode, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Indigenous Affairs Program Director, Ken Coates, is joined by Kody Penner, Vice President of Corporate Development for Nations Royalty. Penner provides valuable insights on the innovative model that Nations Royalty is pioneering to transform the financial basis of indigenous involvement in the mining sector. He explains how Nations Royalty is using a mining royalty business model to consolidate and diversify the royalty payments that indigenous groups receive, allowing them to rapidly g...2025-01-2131 minInside Policy TalksTariffs, Trump, and the Canadian oil and gas sector: Heather Exner-Pirot and Lisa BaitonWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. Please like, comment, share, and subscribe!In this episode, Heather Exner-Pirot, MLI's director of energy, natural resource, and environment, sits down with Lisa Baiton, President and CEO of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, to discuss the future of Canada's oil and gas sector, particularly in light of the tariff threats from President-Elect Donald Trump. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever you get your audio.2025-01-1728 minInside Policy TalksReclaiming Sir John A. Macdonald for the next generation: Patrice Dutil and Lindsay ShepherdWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, where we discuss the most pressing policy issues shaping CanadaIn this episode, Patrice Dutil, a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, sits down with Lindsay Shepherd, the author of the new children's book "A Day with Sir John A."Shepherd discusses her motivation for writing the book, which aims to introduce Canada's first Prime Minister to a young audience in a positive and engaging way. Shepherd shares how the recent controversies surrounding Sir John A. Macdonald's legacy inspired her to create a fictionalized story that allows children t...2025-01-1427 minInside Policy TalksRussia after the fall of Assad: Balkan Devlen, Alexander Lanoszka, and Richard ShimookaWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, host Balkan Devlen sits down with MLI Senior Fellows Alexander Lanoszka and Richard Shimooka to discuss the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the decline of Russia's power globally.The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio.Like, comment...2025-01-0932 minInside Policy TalksThe promise and peril of the AI Revolution: Peter Copeland and Ryan KhuranaWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the flagship video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI’s Domestic Policy Program, is joined by Ryan Khurana, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation and Machine Learning Lead at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE). Together, they discuss first what it is and what it is not, and the many prospects it has, both good and bad. Khurana delves into the great deal of warranted and unwarranted hype and concern for AI across its many applications: it hol...2024-12-1951 minInside Policy TalksDoes Canada's lack of an "Intelligence Culture" put us at risk?: Alexander Dalziel and Michelle TessierWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the flagship podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode, Senior Fellow Alexander Dalziel explores intelligence in Canadian policy-making with Michelle Tessier, a former Deputy Director of Operations at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). The discussion highlights challenges in developing an "intelligence culture," integrating intelligence into decision-making, and intelligence sharing outside the federal government.They explore the differences between intelligence and evidence, the importance of the feedback loop between intelligence agencies and policymakers, and the evolution of CSIS's outreach and transparency efforts. Tessier also shares her insights on...2024-12-1827 minInside Policy TalksSPECIAL FEATURE - Intellectual discourse in Canadian's public and educational landscapes: Peter Copeland with Christopher Dummitt & Lindsay ShepherdWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the flagship video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this special feature episode of Inside policy, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director in the domestic policy program here at MLI, is joined by Christopher Dummitt, Professor of History at Trent University, National Post columnist, and MLI Senior fellow, as well as Lindsay Shepherd, Researcher, Author, public intellectual and MLI contributor.In two separate segments, they discuss the state of intellectual discourse in the Canadian educational and university landscape, and in our public sphere more broadly, finding that censoriousness and ideological conformity, are...2024-12-1330 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: The challenge of China and Russia (Live in Calgary)On December 3, 2024, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute (MLI) hosted a live panel event in Calgary entitled: The challenge of China and Russia, in the Arctic and in our supply chains. The panel featured four of MLI's esteemed thought leaders:- Balkan Devlen, director of the transatlantic program (moderator)- Jonathan Berkshire Miller, director of foreign policy, national defence, and national security- Heather Exner-Pirot, director of natural resources, energy, and environment - Rob Huebert, senior fellowThe Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on...2024-12-1259 minInside Policy TalksIndigenous entrepreneurs are going global – and succeeding: Ken Coates w/ Karen Ogen-Toews & Matt VickersWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute!In this episode, Ken Coates, Director of Indigenous Affairs at MLI, sits down with Karen Ogen-Toews, President and CEO of the First Nations LNG Alliance, and Dr. Matt Vickers, CEO of Northern Nations, and a long-time advocate for indigenous economic development.They discuss the growing involvement of indigenous communities in international business and trade.Ogen-Toews and Vickers share their experiences leading indigenous trade missions to countries like China to leverage their natural resources and economic partnerships to build prosperity for...2024-12-1155 minInside Policy TalksConfiscating Russia's frozen assets for Ukraine's reconstruction: Double Trouble with Balkan Devlen and Aaron Gasch BurnettWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, MLI's Balkan Devlen sits down with Aaron Gasch Burnett to discuss an innovative policy solution to fund Ukraine's war effort and reconstruction: confiscating the approximately $300 billion US of Russian assets frozen in G7 countries and give it to Ukraine. Western tax payers wouldn't need to pay a cent.The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside...2024-12-0535 min
The Promised LandIsrael's multi-front war: The physical, legal, and narrative battlegroundOn November 18, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute hosted Arsen Ostrovsky for a compelling discussion on Israel's conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, exploring the broader implications for Canada and global stability. In this episode, we’d like to share that discussion with you. Arsen Ostrovsky is a distinguished expert in international law and human rights, and the CEO of the International Legal Forum: a global network combating extremism, terror, and antisemitism. His work has taken him to the United Nations, the U.S. Congress, the British Parliament, and beyond, where he’s been at the forefront of advocating for justi...2024-12-0534 minInside Policy TalksA Hereditary Chief's transformative vision: Ken Coates and Tyee Hasheukumiss (Richard George)Welcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Ken Coates, Director of Indigenous Affairs at MLI, sits down with Tyee Hasheukumiss (Richard George), Ha’wiih (Hereditary Chief) of the Ahousaht Nation on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, to discuss the unique governance structure and economic development initiatives within First Nations communities on the West Coast.Hasheukumiss provides insight into the role of hereditary chiefs and how they work alongside the elected band council to steward their nation's lands, waters, and resources.They delve into th...2024-12-041h 02Inside Policy TalksThe evolving battlegrounds of free speech: Peter Copeland and Kristopher KinsingerWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, is joined by Kristopher Kinsinger, an Ontario lawyer and civil liberties advocate, to discuss the pressing issues surrounding freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly in Canada.They delve into the legal framework and jurisprudence around our fundamental Charter rights, and highlight recent Supreme Court cases that have grappled with the limits of hate speech and offensive expression.They also explore a current case Kinsinger is involved in...2024-11-1947 minInside Policy TalksTrouble at the Canada-US border? Alex Dalziel and Jamie TronnesWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Alex Dalziel, Senior Fellow and National Security Project Lead at MLI, sits down with Jamie Tronnes, the Executive Director of MLI's Center for North American Prosperity and Security in Washington, DC. They dive deep into the pressing issues surrounding Canada's immigration policy and its impact on the Canada-U.S. border:What changes has Canada made to its immigration system in the wake of COVID-19, and how is this affecting the flow of people across the northern border? How are...2024-11-1518 minInside Policy TalksEXTENDED CUT - The disturbing truth of Canada’s euthanasia program: Peter Copeland and Ramona CoelhoWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the flagship video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this extended episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI’s Domestic Policy Program, continues his conversation with Senior Fellow Dr. Ramona Coelho, a family physician from London, Ontario, whose practice largely serves marginalized communities. This longer format offers deeper insights into Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program.Together, they explore:The history of MAiD in Canada, from its initial legislative framework to the current expanded regime;The criteria and terminology for MAiD eligibility, examining issues like vagueness, lack of m...2024-11-0855 minInside Policy TalksCanada’s struggle against transnational crime & money laundering: Alex Dalziel and Jamie FerrillWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Alex Dalziel sits down with Jamie Ferrill, Head of Financial Crime Studies & Lecturer at the Australian Graduate School of Policing and Security, to tackle Canada’s growing challenges with transnational crime and money laundering.Ferrill explains how criminal networks exploit global trade routes and complex supply chains to shift massive illicit funds across borders and through Canada.She explore the vulnerabilities in Canada’s trade relationships with the U.S. and China, the rise of trade-based money laun...2024-11-0533 minInside Policy TalksThe disturbing truth of Canada’s euthanasia program: Peter Copeland and Ramona CoelhoWelcome to Inside Policy, the flagship video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI’s Domestic Policy Program, is joined by Senior Fellow Dr. Ramona Coelho, a family physician from London, Ontario, whose practice is dedicated to serving marginalized communities.Together, they discuss Dr. Coelho's recent work with Ontario’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) Death Review Committee and the disturbing findings from its first report. They delve into the systemic challenges facing marginalized groups who are disproportionately affected by MAiD.Dr. Coelho contends that MAiD shou...2024-10-3118 minInside Policy TalksUsing the Notwithstanding clause to fix our justice system: Peter Copeland and Ryan AlfordWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, is joined by Ryan Alford, a professor of law and MLI Senior Fellow. They delve into the pressing issues surrounding mandatory minimums and the evolving landscape of criminal justice reform in Canada.They examine the implications of recent court rulings on mandatory minimums and the ongoing speculation regarding the use of the Notwithstanding Clause in response to perceived judicial overreach.The conversation further explores the broader implications of crime...2024-10-2537 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Our fear of escalation makes the West look weak / Balkan Devlen with Edward Hunter ChristieWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, MLI's Balkan Devlen sits down with Edward Hunter Christie, a senior research fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs and former deputy head of NATO's Innovation Unit, to discuss how the West's policy of fear and non-escalation projects weakness and places Europe and even North America in greater danger. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.F...2024-10-2441 minInside Policy TalksIs Canada winning the fight against crime?: Peter Copeland and Dave SnowWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, is joined by Dave Snow, a professor of political science at the University of Guelph and MLI Senior Fellow, to explore the complexities of bail legislation and crime trends in Canada.Both discuss MLI's recently released Urban Crime Report, the implications of Bill C-48, which introduced a reverse onus for bail in specific cases, and the potential consequences of this approach on violent crime and the criminal justice system. The conversation...2024-10-1637 minInside Policy TalksThe real story behind Canada's housing crisis: Peter Copeland and Matthew SpokeWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, is joined by Matthew Spoke, a Canadian tech entrepreneur and Founder of Moves, a fintech company for the gig economy, to discuss what lies at the root of Canada's current housing crisis.Both discuss how restrictive land use policies, high development charges, and rent controls have driven up housing costs, while underscoring the urgent need for provincial leadership to tackle supply shortages and streamline housing policy.Like, review, share...2024-10-1041 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Looking at China from the Baltics, from economic opportunity to authoritarian challengeWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, MLI's Balkan Devlen sits down with Una Bērziņa-Čerenkova, political scientist and China scholar, to discuss the shifting attitudes towards China across the Baltic countries. In recent years, China has gone from being seen as an economic opportunity (one that the Balkans were in danger of missing out on) to an authoritarian security challenge. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the supp...2024-10-1037 minInside Policy TalksWe must preserve safety and fairness in women's sport: Peter Copeland and Emma HiltonWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, interviews Emma Hilton, a leading expert on sex and sports, on the complexities of gender categories in athletic competition, particularly at the Olympics:What are the performance disparities between males and females in sports? Can testosterone suppression level the playing field? How are individual sports federations redefining fairness?Like, review, comment, share, subscribe2024-10-0328 minInside Policy TalksCanada-US border security - A North American perspective: Alex Dalziel and Alan BersinWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Alex Dalziel sits down with Alan Bersin, a former Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security and Commissioner of the US Customs and Border Protection, to explore modern border management between the U.S. and Canada.They discuss how a trilateral, technology-driven approach to border security can bolster trade, combat illicit activities like fentanyl trafficking, and make North America more competitive globally.Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio.Like, review...2024-10-0235 minInside Policy TalksThe new censorship, professional regulators erode free speech: Peter Copeland and Christine Van GeynWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of MLI's Domestic Program, interviews Christine Van Geyn, Litigation Director for the Canadian Constitution Foundation, on the growing impact of regulatory creep on free expression in Canada:How are professional regulators limiting freedoms? What are the implications for Canadians' rights? Can we reverse this trend?Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-09-2735 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Reflections from GLOBESECWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, MLI senior fellows Jonathan Berkshire Miller, Marcus Kolga, and Alexander Lanoszka discuss their experience in Prague at a premier global security forum, GLOBESEC. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio.Like, comment, share, subscribe!2024-09-1925 minInside Policy TalksThe hidden world of organized crime in Canada: Todd Hataley and Alexander DalzielWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode, Alex Dalziel sits down with Dr. Todd Hataley to discuss the growing threat of transnational organized crime in Canada, the fentanyl crisis, and how Canada can better secure its border with the U.S.Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-09-0626 minInside Policy TalksBridging Canada and Latvia: Balkan Devlen and Artis PabriksWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Dr. Artis Pabriks, Minister of Defence and Deputy Prime Minister of Latvia, to discuss Canada-Latvia relations, with a focus on cooperation in the development of defence technologies, including drones. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-08-1527 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Neo-Idealism, a new approach to geopolitics / Balkan Devlen and Benjamin TallisWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode, Benjamin Tallis joins Senior Fellow Balkan Devlen to discuss neo-idealism, an ideological framework by which western democratic nations can promote the fundamental values of freedom and democracy on the world stage and counter the forces of authoritarianism and tyranny.The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else...2024-08-0840 minInside Policy TalksCanada in the global energy transition: Alexander Dalziel and Heather Exner-PirotWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Alexander Dalziel in conversation with Heather Exner-Pirot on the geopolitical implications of energy security, focusing on Canada's strategic position as a major energy producer and exporter.Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-08-0229 minInside Policy Talks$100 Billion a year?!? Financial Crime in Canada: Christian Leuprecht and Alexander DalzielWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Alexander Dalziel in conversation with Christian Leuprecht on the rise of financial crime in Canada and what our government should be doing about it. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-07-2525 minInside Policy TalksUnpacking Canada's announcements at the NATO Summit / Double TroubleWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode you'll hear transatlantic program director Balkan Devlen in conversation with MLI Senior Fellows Alexander Lanoszka and Richard Shimooka. Devlen, Lanoszka and Shimooka unpack Canada's announcements at the NATO Summit and the governments tendency to substitute policy press releases for concrete action. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or w...2024-07-1756 minInside Policy TalksCanada hangs its head in shame, NATO Summit Wrap-up: Brian Lee Crowley, Jamie Tronnes, Balkan DevlenIn this special episode of Inside Policy Talks, Balkan Devlen sits down with the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's managing director Brian Lee Crowley and the Center for North American Prosperity and Security's (CNAPS') executive director Jamie Tronnes to discuss their experiences and impressions at the NATO Summit in Washington, D.C.In sum, Canada was chastised for its freeriding and an unwillingness to fulfill its commitments to the alliance which guarantees our security in an increasingly dangerous world. Learn more at: https://cnaps.org/2024-07-1229 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble / NATO and the Indo-PacificWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Alexander Lanozska and Jonathan Berkshire Miller on their recent paper, Hard constraints – The supply and demand of NATO in the Indo-Pacific.https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/hard-constraints-the-supply-and-demand-of-nato-in-the-indo-pacific-alexander-lanoszka-balkan-devlen-and-jonathan-berkshire-miller/The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio.2024-07-0446 minInside Policy TalksRussia and China, partners in the Arctic? / Double Trouble: Balkan Devlen with Alex DalzielWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Alex Dalziel on his new paper Eurasian North: The Geopolitics of Russia and China in the Arctic.https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/eurasian-north-the-geopolitics-of-russia-and-china-in-the-arctic/The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio.2024-06-2044 minInside Policy TalksAntisemitism on campus / Aaron Wudrick and Sydney GreenspoonWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Sydney Greenspoon, Jewish student leader within the University of Windsor's Law School, on the trials faced by Jewish students since the Oct. 7 terror attacks. Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, or wherever else you get your audio.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-05-2322 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Cold War 2.0 / Balkan Devlen with George TakachWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with George Takach on his book COLD WAR 2.0 Artificial Intelligence in the New Battle Between Russia, China, and America.Read George's recent article for MLI here: https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/an-urgent-agenda-for-canada-in-a-cold-war-2-0-george-s-takach-for-inside-policy/The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, o...2024-05-1646 minInside Policy TalksSoutheast Asia and the Indo-Pacific Construct / Stephen Nagy and Jonathan Berkshire MillerWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Jonathan Berkshire Miller in conversation with Stephen Nagy on his new book Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific Construct: https://novapublishers.com/shop/southeast-asia-and-the-indo-pacific-construct/Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, or wherever else you get your audio.2024-05-0924 minInside Policy TalksDouble Trouble: Goodbye globalization? Balkan Devlen with Elisabeth BrawWelcome to Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West. In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Elisabeth Braw on her book Goodbye Globalization: The return of a divided world.https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300272277/goodbye-globalization/The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio.2024-05-0236 minInside Policy TalksHow a trans activist group undermined medical science / Aaron Wudrick and Mia HughesWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Mia Hughes on her research documenting how WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) undermined medical science. Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-04-2527 minInside Policy TalksFacing the Sino-Russian axis / Double Trouble: Balkan Devlen and Jonathan Berkshire MillerIntroducing Double Trouble, a special foreign policy focused podcast series within MLI's Inside Policy Talks, to address the growing challenge of the Sino-Russian axis of authoritarianism facing the West. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Canada.Find Inside Policy Talks on Apple, Spotify, Google, or wherever else you get your audio. 2024-04-1831 minInside Policy TalksHuman Rights Tribunal has no business policing 'hate speech': Aaron Wudrick with David ThomasWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with David Thomas, former chair of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and author of a recent National Post op-ed entitled: I chaired the Human Rights Tribunal. It has no business policing 'hate speech'.https://nationalpost.com/opinion/david-thomas-canadian-human-rights-tribunal-has-no-business-policing-hate-speechLike, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-04-0223 minInside Policy TalksOut of control immigration is breaking the Canadian social contract: Aaron Wudrick with Siavash SafaviWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Siavash Safavi."You come here for better opportunities. Why? Why is Canada able offer better opportunities for you?... it is because of these ideals that [Canada] has been built around," said Siavash.Siavash's article for the National Post: https://nationalpost.com/opinion/canadas-clueless-immigration-policy-will-not-end-wellLike, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-03-2829 minInside Policy TalksCanada could do more in the 'cyber domain': Aaron Wudrick and Christian LeuprechtWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Christian Leuprecht discussing his recent article "Coalition Strategic Cyber Campaigns: Functional Engagement as Cyber Doctrine for Middle Power Statecraft"Canada is on a downward trend in our influence in the cyber domain."When we hear criticisms of Canada not doing enough, cyber space is one of those [areas]... there is an opportunity for Canada to be a more serious player." - Christian LeuprechtLike, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-03-1427 minInside Policy TalksThe harms of Covid policy: Aaron Wudrick and Kevin BardoshWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Kevin Bardosh of Collateral Global on his work to understand the harms of Covid policy, the politicization of science throughout the pandemic, and the ways in which Covid policy represented an unprecedented departure from the prior consensus of the global health community."There is an astronomical amount of academic research on the negative impacts of lockdown and all of the other non-pharmaceutical interventions that were rolled out during Covid." - Kevin Bardosh2024-02-2917 minInside Policy TalksIn defence of civilization: Aaron Wudrick and Michael BonnerWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Michael Bonner on his new book, In defence of civilization: How the past can renew our present.Available here: https://sutherlandhousebooks.com/product/in-defense-of-civilization/"What makes the situation in Canada... troubling is that we have an entire class of people, an elite, governing class, who seem to really believe that the way out of humanities problems is to forget history and that being divorced from it is to be free from...2024-02-2231 minInside Policy TalksIt is time to permanently defund UNRWA: Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Casey BabbWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Jonathan Berkshire Miller in conversation with Dr. Casey Babb. "[UNRWA] was a noble organization with a clear, justifiable cause 75-or-so-years-ago. In the time since it has morphed into something far beyond that and has in a variety of ways made the situation much worse for Palestinians and Israeli's alike."Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-02-2026 minInside Policy TalksThe decline in the rule of law in Canada and the Israel-Gaza protests: Aaron Wudrick and Ryan AlfordWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Ryan Alford on the decline in the rule of law in Canada. "The key problem that we have is the notion that the boundaries for police enforcement are not consistent with uniform and neutral principles but rather that [the law] is being selectively enforced based on political considerations." - Ryan AlfordLike, review, comment, share, subscribe!2024-02-1519 minInside Policy TalksUnderstanding the threat from AI: Balkan Devlen and Darren McKeeWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Darren McKee on his new book, Uncontrollable, The threat of artificial super intelligence and the race to save the world.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-12-1444 minInside Policy TalksAttitudes to immigration are reshaping political alignment: Aaron Wudrick with Eric KaufmannWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the in-house podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Eric Kaufmann on the rise of immigration as a central issue shaping political alignment in Canada and across the Western world.Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-12-0727 minInside Policy TalksAntisemitism, Iran, Ukraine, and Trump 2024: Marcus Kolga and David FrumWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Marcus Kolga in conversation with prominent political commentator and author David Frum. Marcus and David discuss everything from the rise of antisemitism in Canada to the fading support for Ukraine in parts of the GOP, to populist movements across North America and the possibility of a Trump re-election in 2024. Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-11-3022 minInside Policy TalksIs 'from the river to the sea' hate speech?: Aaron Wudrick and Kaveh ShahroozWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Kaveh Shahrooz on the shifting sides in the battle for free speech. "People need to understand why free speech is an important value. I would argue in fact that it is the most important value. It's the corrective to everything else that can go wrong in a society, you can fix anything else so long as you can talk about it," notes Kaveh.Read Aaron and Kaveh's article for Inside P...2023-11-2325 minInside Policy TalksSpecial Episode: Brian Lee Crowley's CNAPS launch speechOn November 14, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute launched a new DC based initiative: the Center for North American Prosperity and Security or CNAPS (pronounced, 'synapse'). The launch event was cohosted with the Hudson Institute in Washington, DC.Learn more at: CNAPS.org2023-11-1734 minInside Policy TalksA principled path forward for free speech in Canada: Aaron Wudrick and Ryan AlfordWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Ryan Alford on the fraying foundations for free speech in Canada. Whether aimed at the Freedom Convoy or at pro-Hamas / pro-Palestine protestors, calls for censorship have come from actors across the political spectrum. Aaron and Ryan asks how we can establish lines that maximize freedom of expression but still protect individuals with legitimate concerns about violence. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, A...2023-11-1729 minInside Policy TalksHybrid warfare and critical undersea infrastructure: Balkan Devlen, Alexander Dalziel and Henri VanhanenWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Alexander Dalziel, and Henri Vanhanen on how Canada and other democratic nations should respond to the threat to critical undersea infrastructure from malicious global actors. Read Alexander and Henri's article for Inside Policy here: https://macdonaldlaurier.ca/undersea-under-threat/Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-11-1137 minInside Policy TalksDirty Money, Financial Crime in Canada: Christian Leuprecht in conversation with Aaron Wudrick / MLIWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Christian Leuprecht on his and Jamie Ferrill's new book Dirty Money: Financial Crime in Canada.Available here: https://www.mqup.ca/dirty-money-products-9780228019053.phpFind Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-10-2621 minInside Policy TalksAntisemitism and terrorism from Tehran to Hamas - Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Kaveh ShahroozWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode you'll hear Jonathan Berkshire Miller in conversation with Kaveh Shahrooz on Hamas' attack in Israel and the thread of antisemitism that runs from Iran to Hamas and other terrorist organizations.Kaveh's article in the Globe and Mail can be read here: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-an-antisemitic-thread-runs-from-hamas-to-tehran/Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-10-1917 minInside Policy TalksThe 'new Ottawa consensus' and our broken economy - Aaron Wudrick and Jon HartleyWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Jon Hartley about his recent article for The Hub, Is the ‘New Ottawa Consensus’ killing our economy?.Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-10-0521 minInside Policy TalksRomanian Energy Minister, Sebastian Burduja, talks energy security with Jonathan Berkshire MillerWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Jonathan Berkshire Miller in conversation with Romanian Energy Minister, Sebastian Burduja. Romania serves as an energy hub for Ukraine, Moldova, and other partners, blunting Russia's capacity to use energy as a weapon. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-09-2111 minInside Policy TalksDoes the foreign-interference inquiry have the right tools?Welcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute.In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen in conversation with Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Charles Burton about the recently announced public inquiry into foreign interference. Our expert panel analyses where the inquiry's mandate falls short and suggests how it might become effective in the task at hand. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-09-1230 minInside Policy TalksCanada's Prime Ministers and the making of foreign policy - Aaron Wudrick and Patrice DutilWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Patrice Dutil about his new book, Statesman, Strategists, and Diplomats: Canada's Prime Ministers and the making of foreign policy. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-07-3126 minInside Policy TalksCan Canada really send more troops to Latvia? - Balkan Devlen and Richard ShimookaWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen and Richard Shimooka discuss Canada's recent commitment to expand our enhanced forward presence in Latvia over the next 3 years. Even the 800 troops currently deployed are significantly straining our Armed Forces. It is unclear how Canada will effectively fulfill these new commitments. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon).Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-07-2439 minInside Policy TalksCanada at NATO's Vilnius Summit - Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Balkan DevlenWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode you'll hear Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Balkan Devlen discuss the importance of NATO's upcoming summit in Vilnius. In their series of op-eds for the National post, Balkan and Jonathan layout three priorities for Canada to bring to the summit: a tangible roadmap for Ukraine's involvement with the alliance, the position of the alliance in countering an increasingly disruptive China, and a recommitment to defence spending. Find Inside Policy Talks on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google...2023-07-0740 minInside Policy TalksThe economic vision of the constitution - Aaron Wudrick and Malcolm LavoieWelcome to Inside Policy Talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. In this episode you'll hear Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Malcolm Lavoie on his new book, Trade and Commerce: Canada's Economic Constitution.Find Inside Policy Talks with video on YouTube and wherever else you get your audio (Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon). Like, review, comment, share, subscribe!2023-07-0518 minInside Policy TalksCanada at NATO's upcoming Vilnius Summit - Balkan Devlen and Alexander LanoszkaWelcome to Inside Policy talks, the premier video podcast of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. At the Macdonald-Laurier Institute we harness the power of Canada's brightest minds to tackle Canada's greatest challenges. In this episode you'll hear Balkan Devlen, Director of the transatlantic program at MLI, in conversation with MLI's senior fellow Alexander Lanoszka. Balkan and Alexander discuss Canada's recent contribution of 15 Leopard tanks, and the necessary personnel, to the enhanced Forward Presence in the Latvia battlegroup. 2023-06-2636 min
Pod Bless CanadaPod Bless Canada Ep. 80 - Competition Policy with Aaron Wudrick and Jack MintzThis episode features Macdonald-Laurier Institute distinguished fellow Jack Mintz in conversation with Aaron Wudrick, domestic policy director on the possibility of changes to Canada's competition law. Proposed changes to Canada's competition law might not make headlines but it will absolutely effect Canadian consumers. Despite what some policy makers seem to think, competition law isn't a 'swiss army knife' capable of solving various social and economic issues for government. Instead competition law needs to stay focused on its purpose, serving Canadian consumers. 2023-06-2015 minPod Bless CanadaPod Bless Canada Ep. 79 - 'Internet Regulation' in Bill C-11 and C-18, Aaron Wudrick and Peter MenziesThis episode of Pod Bless Canada features Domestic Policy director Aaron Wudrick in conversation with Macdonald-Laurier Institute senior fellow Peter Menzies to discuss Bill C-11 and Bill C-18, both of which are before Canada's parliament. They discuss the legislations' misguided attempts to protect Canadian content and how the bills pose a real threat to Canadian content creators who make their living online. 2023-04-1926 min
Pod Bless CanadaL’autre côté de l’étang, épisode 3 : L’avenir des technologies émergentes et de l’OTANEn février 2021, l’OTAN a présenté une stratégie pour les technologies émergentes, ce qui témoigne de l'importance grandissante de ces technologies pour l’avenir de la sécurité collective et pour l’OTAN. Dans le troisième épisode de la série « Across the Pond », Christian Leuprecht, chercheur associé à l’Institut Macdonald-Laurier, s’entretient avec Moritz Zimmerman, de l’OTAN, au sujet du développement de l’intelligence artificielle et de la technologie automatisée ainsi que de leurs répercussions sur le mode de fonctionnement de l’OTAN.
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Across the Pond Ep. 3: The future of emerging technologies and NATO
In...2021-11-1636 min
Pod Bless CanadaTalkin' in the Free World EP. 2 – Kaveh Shahrooz on the Nefarious Influence of Iran’s RegimeThis program was originally recorded as Democracy Matters on November 1, 2021.
Macdonald-Laurier Institute Senior Fellow Kaveh Shahrooz on how a prison massacre was formative to his worldview and his career in pursuit of human rights, about the nefarious influence of Iran's regime in the free world, the downing of flight PS752, Oberlin College's employment of a former Iran regime official responsible for covering up rights abuses, and more.2021-10-3137 min
Pod Bless CanadaAcross the Pond Ep. 1: A new podcast series by MLI’s Transatlantic ProgramCanada is the quintessential transatlantic nation; our security and prosperity are intimately tied to the security and prosperity of both sides of the Atlantic. Our interests and values are deeply linked with and shared by our NATO allies; Canadians have spent considerable blood and treasure in defence of European democracy, and Canadians continue to stand on guard in Europe to this day.
To better understand these issues, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute has produced "Across the Pond" - an 8-part podcast series by MLI's Transatlantic Program, in cooperation with NATO's Public Diplomacy Division. This podcast series explores the current and emerging challenges...2021-09-3027 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 71 - Fighting Back Against Global Hostage-Taking with Sarah Teich and Ai-Men LauSeptember 4th, 2021 marks a grim anniversary for Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; it is their 1000th day of arbitrary detention at the hands Chinese authorities, as part of the regime's retaliation for the lawful arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou. Canada's lack of action in response to Beijing's hostage-taking has signaled to the international community that this belligerent behaviour can occur with impunity. Furthermore, victims and their families are often left in limbo without a coordinated response from Ottawa.
MLI Senior Fellow Sarah Teich joined communications officer Ai-Men Lau to discuss the increasing need for a substantive overhaul of Canada's...2021-09-0315 minPod Bless CanadaEP. 62 - DisinfoWatch with Marcus Kolga and Ai-Men LauLaunched in 2020, DisinfoWatch is the Macdonald-Laurier Institute’s new COVID-19 and foreign disinformation monitoring and debunking platform. During the COVID pandemic, it has become increasingly evident that western democratic societies are more exposed to malign foreign and domestic actors seeking to confuse and polarize our societies through conspiracy theories, blatant fabrications and propaganda. Now more than ever is it important to expose and raise awareness of mis/disinformation to build long-term and broad resilience against it in society.
In the latest episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Senior Fellow and founder of DisinfoWatch Marcus Kolga joins communications officer Ai-Men Lau to...2021-04-0727 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 61 - The COVID Misery Index with Rick Audas and Ai-Men LauA year has passed since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Canada with full force, and the results are in on how severely the impact of the virus has been felt in this country compared to similar advanced economies. But how does Canada compare to the rest of the world?
The Macdonald-Laurier Institute launched the COVID Misery Index this week and is based on data analysis conducted by Richard Audas, the lead methodologist on the Misery Index.
To discuss this, Audas joined communications officer Ai-Men Lau to discuss how Canada’s performance has been compared to the rest of the world on th...2021-03-1119 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 60 – Understanding Russia’s anti-democracy crackdown with Marcus Kolga and Vladimir AshurkovThe world has followed closely the attempted assassination via poisoning, recent arrest, and now conviction of Russian anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny. With thousands of Russian citizens having taken to the streets to protest the corrupt and authoritarian rule of President Vladimir Putin, many have asked whether countries like Canada will do anything in response to Russia’s brazen attempts to target, kill, or otherwise stifle the voices of Russian pro-democracy figures.
To discuss these recent events and what the world ought to consider doing, MLI Senior Fellow Marcus Kolga spoke with Vladimir Ashurkov, the Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Foundation an...2021-02-1818 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 58 - Canada and the Indo-Pacific with Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Brett ByersIn an effort to improve Canada’s approach to the Indo-Pacific region, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute has launched a dedicated “Canada and the Indo-Pacific Initiative.” To discuss this important new project, MLI Communications Manager Brett Byers was joined by Senior Fellow and Director of MLI’s Indo-Pacific Program, Jonathan Berkshire Miller.
Miller and Byers examine the challenges and opportunities in the region - ranging from security, to trade, to multilateral cooperation, and more - as well as the role that Canada can play. They outline the importance of Canada embracing its status as an Indo-Pacific nation, urging policy-makers to develop a clear-ey...2021-01-2924 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 51 - Standing up for freedom and democracy in Tibet with Sherap Therchin and Ai-Men LauThis episode of Pod Bless Canada features a conversation between MLI’s communication officer Ai-Men Lau and Sherap Therchin. Therchin is the executive director of the Canada Tibet Committee, an organization that promotes human rights and democratic freedoms in Tibet.
Therchin and Lau discuss the recent motion that was passed by the Special Committee on Canada-China relations which supported the resumption of dialogue between the representatives of Tibet and the Chinese government. Additionally, they also delve into the current situation in Tibet under Chinese rule as it pertains to freedom, human rights, and democracy.
Lau and Therchin also explore what Tib...2020-09-0421 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 50 - Exploring China and Iran's COVID-19 Liabilities with Sarah Teich and Shuvaloy MajumdarThis episode of Pod Bless Canada features a conversation between MLI’s Director for the Centre for Advancing Canada’s Interests Abroad, Shuvaloy Majumdar, and Sarah Teich, a Canadian attorney and consultant who is the author of the Institute’s most recent paper titled “Not Immune – Exploring liability of authoritarian regimes for the COVID-19 pandemic and its cover-up.”
Teich’s paper argues that hundreds of thousands of deaths and trillions of dollars in economic damages could have been prevented had countries like China and Iran not engaged in illegal cover-ups regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Luckily, Teich outlines that there are a wide array o...2020-07-2425 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 49 - Dissecting Russia's Disinformation with Michael Weiss and Marcus KolgaLike other authoritarian regimes, the Russian government has taken full advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic to spread disinformation. However, while the crisis may serve as a convenient backdrop for Moscow’s campaigns of disinformation, this is only a small part of a much larger trend.
To make sense of this situation, MLI Senior Fellow Marcus Kolga was joined by the Daily Beast’s Editor-at-Large, Michael Weiss. In addition to his role at the Daily Beast, Weiss is also writing a forthcoming book on the history of Russian military intelligence.
Kolga and Weiss discuss the Kremlin’s long-running campaigns of disinformation, partic...2020-06-2235 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 48 - Have We Lost Hong Kong? With Davin Wong, Alex Lee, and Ai-Men LauIn this latest episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Communications Officer Ai-Men Lau was joined by Alex Lee and Davin Wong from Alliance Hong Kong Canada (ACHK) to discuss the recent turbulent events in Hong Kong as a result of China's proposed the controversial National Security Law. Davin Wong is the Director of Youth Engagement and Policy Initiatives and Alex Lee is the Director of Strategy and Policy at ACHK.
Lau, Lee, and Wong also discuss the overall response from Canada’s federal government, Canada-China relations, and the how Canada should approach future relations with China in the context of Hon...2020-05-2733 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 47 - Canada's Brain Waste Problem: How Canada has Overlooked Immigrant DoctorsIn this latest of episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Communciation Officer Ai-Men Lau was joined by Robert Falconer, a reserach associate at the School of Public Policy, University of Calgary. Falconer is a leading expert on refugee, immigration, and border policy with a specific focus on the inclusion of immigrants in the economy, healthcare system, and social life in Canada.
Lau and Falconer discuss the burdensome and challenging process immigrant doctors face in becoming accredited to practice medicine in Canada. As Canada fights the COVID-19 pandemic, many immigrant doctors are unable to join on the frontlines as they face a...2020-04-1528 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 46 - The Philosophy of a Pandemic with Balkan Devlen and David ManheimIn this latest of episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Senior Fellow Balkan Devlen was joined by David Manheim, a post-doc at the University of Haifa in the Health and Risk Communication Research Center. Manheim has done extensive work in terms of modeling risk across a wide variety of domains. Both he and Devlen are superforecasters with the Good Judgement project, currently forecasting global spread and impact of COVID-19.
In their discussion, Devlen and Manheim reflect on existential risks, philosophy, pandemics with a particular eye toward the pandemic the world is currently experiencing: COVID-19. They reflect on the current actions t...2020-03-2741 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 40 - Why MLI Chose Xi Jinping as Policy-Maker of the Year with Charles Burton and Brett ByersEvery year, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute names the person or institution that has had the greatest impact—for good or ill— on Canadian public policy as Canada’s Policy-Maker of the Year.
In this special episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Communications Manager Brett Byers was joined by MLI Senior Fellow Charles Burton to discuss why the Institute named Chinese Communist Party General-Secretary, Xi Jinping, as our 2019 Policy-Maker of the Year.
Though his influence and his impact on public policy is hardly in the best interests of Canadians, few can deny that Xi Jinping has forced more policy responses on Canada than a...2019-12-3133 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 30 - Hong Kong's Imperilled Freedoms with Charles Burton and Martin LeeIn this episode of Pod Bless Canada, MLI Senior Fellow Charles Burton was joined by Martin Lee - the founder of Hong Kong's Democratic Party who is known as “the Father of Democracy” in Hong Kong. Burton and Lee discuss the extradition issue gripping Hong Kong in the larger context of democratic rights and freedoms in the region.
The recent sentencing of nine leaders of Hong Kong’s pro-democratic Umbrella Movement shows that Beijing’s grip is tightening over Hong Kong’s free society, including the judiciary. Furthermore, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government is trying to put in place meas...2019-05-2129 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 16 Part 2 - Canada-US relations and the NAFTA talks with Chris Sands and Brian Lee CrowleyEp. 16 Part 2 - Canada-US relations and the NAFTA talks with Chris Sands and Brian Lee Crowley by Macdonald-Laurier Institute2018-09-2823 minPod Bless CanadaEp. 16 Part 1 - Canada-US relations and the NAFTA talks with Chris Sands and Brian Lee CrowleyEp. 16 Part 1 - Canada-US relations and the NAFTA talks with Chris Sands and Brian Lee Crowley by Macdonald-Laurier Institute2018-09-2622 min