The Decibel

Mariya Postelnyak, a consumer affairs reporter for The Globe and Mail, sheds light on how Canadian small businesses are grappling with U.S. tariffs linked to China. She discusses the challenging landscape these businesses face, especially post-COVID-19. From navigating price hikes and operational hurdles to employing inventive strategies like stockpiling and adapting supply chains, Mariya reveals the resilience of entrepreneurs amid trade uncertainties. Her insights expose the delicate balance between competition and survival in a complex global economy.

Carolyn Whitzman, an adjunct professor and senior housing researcher at the University of Toronto, discusses Canada’s pressing housing crisis. She highlights Prime Minister Mark Carney’s ambitious plan to build millions of affordable homes using modular construction. The conversation analyzes historical housing policies from the 1940s and explores innovative solutions to overcome challenges in the current market, including zoning laws and rising costs. Whitzman emphasizes the need for collaboration among different government levels to create sustainable housing solutions.

Meera Raman, a financial and retirement planning reporter at The Globe and Mail, breaks down the dire situation facing Canada Post. With a looming strike and significant financial losses, she explains the company's struggles amid decreased mail volume and fierce delivery competition. Raman sheds light on the intense negotiations focused on wages and weekend services, which could greatly impact Canadians' mail delivery. As the clock ticks, the podcast explores the potential consequences of these negotiations on jobs and the future of postal services in Canada.

Hamida Ghafour, The Globe's deputy foreign editor, discusses Israel's new military operation in Gaza, highlighting the humanitarian crisis and easing aid access. She examines international reactions to Prime Minister Netanyahu's strategies and the complexities of ongoing ceasefire talks. The conversation addresses the desperate living conditions for Palestinians, the implications of recent hostage releases, and the changing dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations amid increasing global condemnation.

Joe Castaldo, a business reporter with The Globe and Mail specializing in artificial intelligence, dives into Alberta's ambitious plan to become a data center hub. He discusses the significant rise in electricity demand tied to these centers, primarily fueled by natural gas, and the environmental implications. The conversation also navigates the balance between technological growth and sustainability, examining the challenges and opportunities presented by this data center boom in Alberta's energy landscape.

Robyn Doolittle, a staff reporter for The Globe and Mail, provides insightful analysis on the recent developments in the Hockey Canada trial. She discusses the dramatic dismissal of the jury for a second time, shedding light on the implications for the complainant, E.M., who will avoid retesting. The conversation touches on allegations of jury bullying and how these led to concerns over impartiality. Doolittle also explores the complexities of consent and the contrasting narratives presented in court, revealing the challenges of such a high-profile case.

Join investigative journalist Jenn Thornhill Verma and fisherman Joey Agnetok as they delve into how Labrador Inuit communities are grappling with climate change. They discuss the critical role of sea ice in Inuit culture and the numerous Inuttitut terms that reflect this connection. The guests highlight innovative adaptations, like the SmartICE project, which melds traditional knowledge with modern technology to enhance ice navigation safety. Elder stories reveal both the cultural challenges and community resilience in a warming world.

Mark Rendell, an economics reporter for The Globe's Report on Business, dives into the implications of recent U.S. trade deals with Britain, China, and the Middle East. He discusses how these agreements impact Canada's economy, especially in the auto industry and under the USMCA framework. Rendell breaks down the details of the new tariffs and their potential risks, as well as the challenges Canada faces amidst evolving trade negotiations. Expect insights on market reactions and the complexities of global trade dynamics.

Campbell Clark, chief political writer for The Globe and Mail, dives into the recent formation of Prime Minister Mark Carney's cabinet. He discusses the blend of seasoned politicians and newcomers, and what their roles indicate about the government's direction. Notably, he highlights rookie ministers like Tim Hudson and their potential impact on crucial issues such as housing and Indigenous relations. The conversation also touches on the cabinet's strategic dynamics and priorities for upcoming parliamentary sessions, revealing a shift towards more collaborative governance.

After several tense weeks of escalating military action across the de facto border in Kashmir, India and Pakistan have agreed to a fragile ceasefire. For the last week there have been reports of gunfire, drone attacks, and missile strikes in the region. This current conflict started after an April 22 terrorist attack left 26 people dead at a Kashmir tourist resort. But this isn’t the first time these two countries have been at odds. Dr. Reeta Tremblay is the former provost at the University of Victoria and a political scientist and expert on the Kashmir region. She’s on the show today to give us insight into the decades-long fight between India and Pakistan, and what needs to happen in order for the two countries to have lasting peace. Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.