The Decibel

Nojoud Al Mallees, an economics reporter with The Globe and Mail, breaks down Canada’s supply management system and its entanglement in Trump’s trade war. She reveals how strict regulations shape dairy production and imports, making it a target for U.S. tariffs. The discussion dives into the impact on Canadian farmers and consumers, exploring the delicate balance between protecting local industries and the pressures of international trade. Al Mallees also raises the question of whether Canada can afford to maintain this system amid escalating trade tensions.

Measles cases in Ontario are higher than we’ve seen in a decade, and we’re only three months into the year. Measles is one of the world’s most contagious viruses that can, in some cases, be deadly. While the virus has been effectively eliminated in Canada since 1998, rates of infection and hospitalization in Southern Ontario are growing, along with cases across Canada.But this is a vaccine-preventable disease. So why is it suddenly re-emerging?Today, Globe health reporter Kelly Grant is here to explain why we’re seeing this surge in measles cases, and the measures we can take to best protect ourselves – and others – from getting sick.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.

The host of The Globe and Mail's newest podcast, Garvia Bailey, gets some crowd-sourced wisdom from people nominated by loved ones as ‘the happiest people in Canada’ for a recent Globe and Mail feature. They live across the country, in cities and rural areas. They include toddlers and seniors, men and women, and people who have been through extremely hard times. She speaks with Erin Anderssen, The Globe and Mail’s happiness reporter, about these happy people and checks in with the nominees themselves to discuss how to live a happier life. Who are these happy people living among us? And can they let us in on their secrets? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this discussion, Susan Krashinsky Robertson, a retailing reporter for The Globe, analyzes the financial turmoil of Hudson's Bay, Canada's oldest retailer. The company recently filed for creditor protection after significant losses, sparking concerns about potential store closures. Susan highlights how external competition and internal missteps, particularly during the pandemic, have exacerbated their challenges. She also sheds light on the emotional impact this crisis has on employees and customers, and the urgent need for Hudson's Bay to innovate and adapt in today's retail landscape.

Rob Carrick, a personal finance columnist for the Globe and Mail and co-host of the Stress Test podcast, dives into the current economic turmoil caused by trade wars and tariffs. He discusses how Canadians can protect their finances amid market volatility and recession fears. Rob emphasizes the importance of diversifying investments and maintaining cash reserves for short-term goals, especially for those nearing retirement. He also highlights the benefits of high-interest savings accounts and suggests seizing opportunities in the current market despite economic uncertainties.

Andrew Willis, a business columnist for The Globe, shares his insights on Pierre Poilievre's unconventional relationship with Canada's corporate elite. He delves into Poilievre's rare public criticisms of business leaders and how this populist approach might affect Canada's economic landscape. The discussion highlights the crucial need for collaboration between politicians and businesses during economic uncertainty. Willis also contrasts Poilievre's strategies with those of Justin Trudeau, revealing the complexity of navigating corporate relations in modern politics.

For the last four years, Dave Lavery — a former soldier and UN security advisor — has helped Afghans safely evacuate to Canada. But this past November, during his most recent trip to Afghanistan, he was detained by Taliban Intelligence and Security Forces.But what happens when the person sent in to rescue needs saving?The Globe’s international affairs reporter, Janice Dickson, sat down with Dave at his home in Doha where he recounted his detainment, where he was taken, and how he survived 77 days in captivity.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.

Mark Carney, the former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, has just been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party, making him Canada's next Prime Minister. He discusses his unprecedented journey into politics, facing significant challenges as an untested leader. Carney's victory, capturing an astounding 86% of the vote, signals a shift in the party's direction. With looming threats from opponents and international pressures, he highlights strategies for economic conservatism and party unity as he prepares for a tumultuous political future.

Doug Saunders, an international affairs columnist for the Globe and Mail, shares his insights on how Trump's presidency has reshaped global alliances. He discusses the unexpected pause on tariffs and the resulting strain on U.S. relationships with Canada and Mexico. Saunders also explores the shift in European defense strategies and the resurgence of U.S. imperialism echoing historical practices. He emphasizes the fragility of global democracies amid rising authoritarianism and the urgent need for cooperative efforts to counter these threats.

Nathan VanderKlippe, an international correspondent for The Globe, dives into the recent trade tensions and negotiations between the U.S. and Canada. He sheds light on a pivotal phone call between President Trump and Prime Minister Trudeau and discusses the role of Howard Lutnick in the trade talks. VanderKlippe also unpacks the temporary reprieve from automotive tariffs and its significance for both economies. The conversation further explores the complexities surrounding trade, fentanyl issues, and the push for economic stability amidst uncertainty.