On today’s Speak Easy edition, we tackle rising tensions with Iran, the situation in Cuba, separatism in Canada, and the political issues making headlines at home. Different perspectives, lively debate, and plenty of unscripted conversation.

Episode 11 01/26 – Who Shapes the Next World?

Power is shifting, the rules are breaking, and the winners aren’t asking for permission.

Robert and Josh break down the 2025 “Canada Strong” federal budget, outlining the major highlights while locking horns over what qualifies as wise investments versus outright foolish spending.  No floor crossings – just a fast, funny look at how this budget will shape Canada’s next year.

We turn a satirical eye on local politics. From the Downtown ShoeBus – a bright yellow double-decker bus that’s running but often empty to the wild hair-brained idea of a swimming pool in the river – we tackle the issues shaping city life. We discuss the deteriorating state of the roads, whether councilors should have the freedom to share personal opinions without consequences, and the early speculation about who might run for Mayor and Council next year.

Data proves that voters are diminishing. The United Kingdom is grappling with the notion of lowering their voting age to 16. Is it a valid idea to attract more voters? Or is it a short-term vote-getting gimmick with problematic long-term consequences? The Speak Easy examines the political apathy and disinterest existing in the land. And of the folks that do fill the ballot, are they even fully informed?

As the western world experiences a rise in right-wing populism, a political ideology blending right-wing politics with populist rhetoric and images in opposition to the establishment, the movement claims to be the best choice representing the common folk. The Speak Easy explores the trend where right-wing populists aim to defend a national culture, identity, and economy against attacks by outsiders.

At Prime Minister Mark Carney’s request, King Charles of England was invited to highlight the opening session of Canada’s parliament. Speculation as to how Charles would further use the platform in delivering the historic speech had been building for weeks. The Speak Easy took in the proceedings for themselves to file their own report on a royal performance the nation hasn’t seen since 1977.

The “Ring of Fire” is in northern Ontario, a vast mineral-rich region known for containing significant deposits of various minerals, with several First Nations under treaty surrounding these resources. The Speak Easy invites former Batchawana FN Chief Dean Sayers to comment on the uneasy negotiations with federal and provincial governments, as the tension and controversy escalates.

The Corporation of the City of Sault Ste. Marie is investigating the possibility of major changes to the way the community is policed. On the news of a significant budget overage report, The Speak Easy calls on retired police officer and current City Councillor, Sonny Spina, to provide answers and insight.

The Vatican conducts a highly secretive process to elect a new pope to lead the Catholic institution. Over 130 Cardinals sequester in isolation until one of them has earned two-thirds of the vote. The Speak Easy gives a hot-take on the 2025 process now underway, to replace the deceased Pope Francis.