Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud

Vish Khanna, podcaster and music commentator, and Carl Wilson, writer and music critic, unpack rapid-response protest songs and how new platforms amplify them. They debate Springsteen’s quick-release politics, why some anthems endure, Jesse Welles’ viral reaction tunes, and how YouTube and TikTok reshape protest music distribution.

Radheyan Simonpillai talks with El Jones, a Halifax poet and professor who brings African Nova Scotian history and literary context; Reanna Cruz, a music critic who dissects performance and cultural politics; and Rosa Clemente, an organizer and Afro-Latinx political commentator. They debate Bad Bunny’s Spanish-language Super Bowl halftime performance, its political symbolism and production, and unpack Aquakultre’s history-rich album 1783.

Sarah-Tai Black, film critic known for sharp cultural readings. Jackson Weaver, CBC senior writer covering music and film. Joan Summers, Paper Magazine editor and culture commentator. They break down Charli XCX’s mockumentary, satire and cringe in pop branding. They unpack the Safdie brothers controversy and debate media focus. They discuss Tate McRae’s polarizing Olympics ad and its commercial logic.

Sonya Ballantyne, Swampy Cree filmmaker and wrestling fan who reviewed Brawl at the Hall. Kira Hall, CBC Kids puppeteer who performs as Cottonball the Cat. Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture culture critic. They talk Muppet nostalgia and why tactile puppetry still delights. They discuss Seth Rogen’s take on the franchise. And they describe a pro-wrestling match scored by a live symphony and its theatrical effects on the crowd.

Hanna Puley, costume and production designer behind Heated Rivalry, explains the Team Canada fleece and other iconic looks. Jay Smooth, veteran hip-hop broadcaster and culture critic, discusses what Netflix carrying video podcasts means for media. Michelle Santosuosso, music industry insider and professor, analyzes audience habits and platform strategy. They focus on viral wardrobe choices, video podcast distribution, and how podcasts are evolving on big platforms.

David Dennis Jr., Atlanta-based journalist and culture critic known for sharp commentary on race and politics. He breaks down why Nike’s MLK tribute sneaker—notably its Lorraine Motel–inspired teal—felt wrong. He critiques Nike’s PR and lack of meaningful collaboration, explores who was left out of the process, and suggests what respectful alternatives could have looked like.

Niko Stratis, a culture critic and author who comments on music and Canadian representation. Pablo The Don, a culture critic and podcaster known for sharp pop culture takes. They dissect Bad Bunny’s big win, notable performances and tributes, surprising snubs, Canadian nominees, and how artists used the Grammys for political moments.

Jennifer Whalen, comedian and actor (Baroness von Sketch), offers a performer’s view of Catherine O'Hara. Paul Myers, podcaster and writer, gives historical context and memories. Andrew Barnsley, TV and film producer (Schitt's Creek), shares behind-the-scenes stories. They discuss Catherine’s comic genius, Moira Rose’s enduring appeal, her career choices, cross-generational roles like Home Alone, and her late-career turns.

Radheyan Simonpillai, film critic known for sharp reviews; Emilie Hanskamp, music journalist and recommender; Ashley Ray, comedian and cultural commentator. They dissect Rachel McAdams thriller Send Help and its tone. They debate Kanye West's Wall Street Journal apology and what accountability looks like. They react to the 2026 Juno nominations and highlight notable snubs and standouts.

Michelle Cho, University of Toronto professor and pop culture critic, weighs in on representation and story choices. Jackson Weaver, senior entertainment writer, brings skeptical media analysis. Roxana Hadadi, entertainment journalist, highlights tone and worldbuilding. They discuss Bridgerton’s Cinderella storyline and East Asian lead, Dunk and Egg’s low-key Game of Thrones prequel, and Starfleet Academy’s teen-tinged reinvention of Star Trek.