The Big Five Podcast

Join reporter Akil Alleyne, known for his insights on legal and social issues, and strategic consultant Justine McIntyre, a former city councillor, as they tackle Quebec's new secularism bill. Akil critiques the bill as political pandering aimed at specific communities, while Justine defends its intent for neutral public services. They also dive into Mark Carney's recent comments on Trump and weigh Elon Musk's claim about the future of work, debating the implications of automation and the concept of universal basic income.

In this discussion, political operative Jimmy Zubris and punk rock musician Paul Gott dive deep into the chaotic landscape of Quebec politics. They explore Mark Carney's nonchalant stance towards trade talks with Trump, with Zubris warning it might tarnish Carney's image. Gott critiques a recent tweet from JD Vance targeting Canada's immigration policies, labeling it as politically motivated. They also analyze the fracturing within political parties in Quebec, reflecting on the potential fallout from internal conflicts and past scandals.

Political analyst Karim Boulos, known for his insights into city relations and bike lanes, joins Lionel Perez, former Montreal city councillor, to discuss pressing local issues. They ponder what Mayor Soraya Martinez-Ferrada should discuss with Premier François Legault. They also debate the controversy over allegedly paid-off voters in the Liberal leadership race, questioning its legality. Plus, they celebrate Sherbrooke Street West being ranked fifth on Time Out's coolest streets list, comparing it to other vibrant Montreal neighborhoods. Tune in for lively local politics!

Graham Singh, Pastor at St. Jack's Church, shares insights on community and youth mental health, emphasizing the importance of faith in fostering resilience. Caroline Codsi, founder of Women in Governance, tackles the gendered impacts of politics on mental health, linking polarization and cultural pressures to rising anxiety among young women. They discuss the consequences of social media on mental health, particularly for liberal young women, and highlight how traditional values can provide grounding in today's chaotic world.

Justine McIntyre, a strategic consultant and former city councillor, joins political analyst Raphaël Melançon for a deep dive into the chaos within the Quebec Liberal Party. They discuss Marwah Rizqy's suspension and allegations of vote-buying during the leadership race. The panel debates whether Pablo Rodriguez can weather these scandals and what it means for party dynamics. They also touch on extravagant nurse salaries and a controversial Ontario proposal forcing impaired drivers to pay child support after fatal incidents. Political intrigue abounds!

Join Montreal journalist Sue Smith and public affairs specialist Victor Enriquez as they dive into this week's hot topics. They analyze the shaky fate of the REM network after an unfortunate accident raises questions about its reliability. The duo debates the implications of Prime Minister Carney's narrow budget survival and the fairness of provinces like Manitoba poaching Quebec doctors. They also tackle the confusion around food labeling and the political fallout of Health Minister Dubé's trip to Florida, highlighting how optics can make or break a politician.

In this discussion, Dan Delmar, a political commentator and co-founder of TNKR Media, joins former Montreal advisor Jimmy Zubris to dive deep into current political events. They analyze the potential fallout of Mark Carney's upcoming budget vote and predict a nail-biting outcome. The pair also unpack the Parti Québécois's intriguing proposal for a provincial currency, exploring its implications for Quebec's economy. To lighten things up, they celebrate the successful launch of the new REM transit line, highlighting its positive impact on Montreal.

Jonathan Kalles, Vice President at McMillan Vantage and former advisor to Justin Trudeau, joins Alain Vaillancourt, former Montreal city councillor, for a lively discussion. They dive into Soraya Martinez Ferrada's inaugural challenges as Montreal's mayor, tackling issues like homelessness and transit. The panel also analyzes the recent STM strike and the promising yet shaky launch of the REM transit system. Additionally, they address Quebec's controversial decision to threaten social assistance cuts for asylum seekers, exploring the political implications.

Elias Makos is joined by Caroline Codsi, Founder & Chief Equity Officer, Women in Governance, and Paul Gott, Lead singer and guitarist for Montreal Punk Rock band the Ripcordz and a journalism professor at Concordia. Is Mark Carney’s honeymoon with voters coming to an end? Quebecers are seemingly not impressed with Mark Carney’s first budget. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre spoke to reporters yesterday for the first time since two MPs announced they were leaving his caucus.  As it stands right now, there will be no bus or metro service this weekend.  Doctors leaving for Ontario may not be getting the better lifestyle that was promised to them. 

Meeker Guerrier, a sharp political commentator from Noovo and RDS, joins Daniel Tran, Director of Communications at Casacom, to dissect Quebec's political landscape. They dive into Premier François Legault's staggering 71% disapproval rating and explore potential party shifts. The conversation turns to an ambitious urban renewal proposal for the Metropolitan Expressway, and they react to the striking news of Apple’s bizarre $320 phone sock. Insights on public health reforms and the latest on the STM strike add depth to an engaging discussion.