Beyond a Ballot

In our new series, THE BIG STORY, we look at the major news stories happening around the world. 
Our first conversation delves into the complexities of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in the United States with the women of Pantsuit Politics, Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland. We explore ICE's origins, functions, and the political controversies surrounding it. The discussion highlights the shifts in immigration policy under different administrations, the militarization of immigration enforcement, and the impact of media and public perception on the agency's operations. 
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2026 has already been wild -- how are you feeling? 
We do a dive into everything that has happened globally in 2026 including Venezuela, Iran, Davos and Carney's trip to China and Qatar.  
Chapters
00:00
Leadership in Crisis: Carney's Davos Speech
02:53
Contrasting Leadership Styles: Carney vs. Trump
05:25
Canada's Global Positioning: Middle Power Dynamics
08:11
Navigating Trade Relationships: The China Deal
10:57
The EV Controversy: Balancing Trade and Domestic Interests
13:52
Military Preparedness: The Reality of U.S. Relations
16:41
The Future of Canadian Sovereignty: A Call to Action
23:03
Trump's Controversial Strategies and Backlash
24:23
Canada's Presence at Davos: A Pop Star Moment
31:20
Venezuela's Political Turmoil and Global Implications
41:40
Political Landscape in Canada: Upcoming Challenges and Changes
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Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Our federal election pod band is back! We welcome back Hannah Thibedeau and Kathleen Monk join us this week to talk about the tumultuous political landscape in Canada throughout 2025 and share predictions for politics in 2026!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! - Amanda & Rachael 
Programming note: We will be back with a new episode on January 23rd 2026!
Chapters
00:00
Political Whiplash in Canada
03:01
The Story of 2025: Turbulence and Change
05:39
Mark Carney: The New Political Force
08:41
Pierre Poliev: Leadership Challenges
11:36
Opposition Dynamics: NDP and Bloc Quebecois
14:27
Looking Ahead: The Future of Canadian Politics
21:06
The Importance of Cooperation in Canadian Politics
23:49
The Future of the NDP and Leadership Choices
26:27
Provincial Politics and Their Impact on Federal Dynamics
29:30
Provincial Leaders and Their Influence
31:50
Looking Ahead to 2026: Predictions and Concerns
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Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!

Katie Telford, former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, reflects on her extensive political career, the evolution of Canadian politics, and the challenges faced during her time as Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister. 
The conversation includes the rise of Trudeau, the impact of the pandemic, and the political tensions surrounding the convoy protests. Telford shares insights on leadership, the importance of diversity in politics, and her personal reflections on navigating a demanding career in public service.
Chapters
00:00
Reflections on a Year of Change
02:45
The Early Political Journey
05:28
Defining Values and Political Alignment
08:00
The Rise of Justin Trudeau
10:59
Navigating the 2015 Election
13:36
The Significance of Gender Parity in Cabinet
16:20
Cannabis Policy and Its Implications
19:20
Challenges and Controversies
21:51
Leading Through a Global Pandemic
37:29
Navigating Communication During the Pandemic
40:21
The Pressure of Vaccine Distribution
42:31
Addressing Vaccine Mandate Opposition
45:09
The Invocation of the Emergencies Act
48:12
Toxicity in Politics and Its Impact
55:37
Leadership Challenges and Political Dynamics
01:01:31
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
01:08:31
Reflections on Achievements and Future Directions
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LIVE FROM THE EMPIRE CLUB OF CANADA! 
The conversation focuses on the pressing housing crisis in Canada, emphasizing the need for affordable housing and innovative construction methods. Ana Bailão, CEO of Build Canada Homes, discusses the importance of collaboration among government, private sector, and non-profits to address the challenges in the housing market. The discussion highlights the urgency of action, the role of skilled workers, and the necessity of a coordinated approach to housing and infrastructure development.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Acknowledgments
01:35
The Housing Crisis in Canada
04:26
Building Canada's Future: The Role of Labor
07:22
The Need for Affordable Housing
10:00
Innovations in Housing Construction
12:39
The Role of Build Canada Homes
15:17
Collaboration and Partnerships for Housing Solutions
18:14
The Future of Housing in Canada
20:55
Closing Remarks and Call to Action
31:23
The Economic Case for Housing Investment
32:12
Accelerating Housing Development
35:00
Building Partnerships for Housing Solutions
37:51
Vision for Affordable Housing
39:43
Transitional Housing Initiatives
43:44
Personal Commitment to Housing
46:06
Success Metrics for Housing Initiatives
47:42
Creating Complete Communities
Support the show
Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/beyondaballot/
Thank you to our Title Sponsor, DoorDash!