Claim OwnershipThe Debate with Mike Le Couteur
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Panelists join host Mike Le Couteur each night to debate 3 topical issues.
172 Episodes
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In this episode Samantha Kemp-Jackson and Kari Vierimaa debate:
Is a Royal reconciliation possible? Prince Harry rushed to London to be with his father following King Charles' cancer diagnosis. Could this repair relations in the Royal family?
Taylor Swift's lawyers are threatening legal against a college student. The 21-year old posts private jet flights used by celebrities, posting routes, fuel costs and Co2 emissions. Do celebrities have the right to privacy when it comes to their travel?
Comedian Shane Gillis is hosting Saturday Night Live this week. In 2019, he was hired by the show but then fired after videos surfaced showing him making racist and homophobic jokes. Are you okay with him hosting?
In this episode Giselle Kovary and Andrew Perez debate:
A U.S. appeals panel has ruled Donald Trump is not immune from prosecution in connection with the 2020 election interference case. Despite that, Trump remains the leading Republican nominee. Will this case affect Trump's bid for the White House?
Birth control for pigeons? A pilot project in Toronto aims to control the population by distributing contraceptives via their feed. It does not harm them, and costs $24,000 a year. Is this a fair use of taxpayer money?
Southwest Airlines unveiled a new cabin design including smaller and thinner seats. The airline says the seat offers 'ultimate comfort while maximizing seat width and overall support.' Online reaction has been negative. Are smaller and thinner seats a deal breaker?
In this episode Kate Carnegie and Mohit Rajhans debate:
Controversy at the Grammys as some believe Taylor Swift snubbed Celine Dion on stage. The Canadian singer made a surprise appearance as she battles health issues. The two were spotted hugging backstage after. Did Swift snub Celine? Or was she caught up in the excitement?
A U.K. study says allowing children to play impact sports like rugby and boxing amounts to a form of child abuse. The authors say those sports' governing bodies "effectively groom children into ... accepting brain trauma." Do you agree?
'Sittervising' is a new hands-off parenting approach, encouraging parents to step back more and make kids play on their own. Some critics argue this was commonplace before the trend of helicopter parenting. Do parents need to be reminded to “sittervise?”
In this episode Luba Magnus and Chris Bumbray debate:
A new survey finds most Canadians under the age of 55 could not handle an unexpected expense of more than $1,000. Would you be able to handle an unexpected expense of that amount?
The first human to get an implant brain-chip from Elon Musk's Neuralink is said to be doing well. The goal is to help patients overcome paralysis and a host of neurological conditions. Would you trust this type of technology?
Fitness guru Richard Simmons is distancing himself from a biopic being made about his life. Simmons says he never gave permission for the movie, while its star, Pauly Shore says it's "all about love.” Do you care if the real-life subject of a movie gives their permission?
In this episode Sean Tepper and Neil Hedley debate:
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologized to families whose kids were exploited on social media. It happened during U.S. Senate hearings into social media safeguards. Do you think this could signal a change from social media companies?
Some popular music has vanished from TikTok as Universal Music Group is locked in a contract dispute with the platform. UMG claims TikTok has offered to pay its artists a fraction of the rate other platforms do. Who will win this battle?
More school boards are changing an up-coming day off for students because of a solar eclipse. There are concerns kids may look at the afternoon eclipse with a naked eye, as they leave school. Do you agree with this move?
In this episode Sabrina Nanji and Samantha Kemp-Jackson debate:
The interim ethics commissioner said PM Trudeau's Jamaican vacation was 'clearly a generous gift,' but not against the rules. There remain questions about what's considered an acceptable gift from friends. Should there be a limit on the value of gifts MPs can receive?
Canada's fertility rate has hit an all-time low, at 1.33 children per woman. While our country has no policy to raise fertility rates, other counties do. Should Canada offer incentives to have children?
A TikToker is facing backlash for scolding a Gen Z employee who skipped an early work meeting for their workout class. The debate is pitting 'work/life balance' against 'working harder to get ahead.’ Should employees be willing to come in outside of work hours?
In this episode Komal Minhas and Clive Veroni debate:
The Liberals could reportedly be considering it as a way to counter confusion about how the program works. Is a rebranding necessary?
Deepfake images of Taylor Swift have prompted calls for action. After fake explicit photos circulated online, some U.S. lawmakers say sharing those images should be a crime punishable by jail and fines. Is it possible for governments to clamp down on deepfakes?
Too old to rent a car? A 76-year-old Ottawa man was surprised to be turned away at the counter because he was two years over the age limit. He also was not initially given a refund, and told the rules are in the fine print. Is 74-years-old a fair cut-off to rent a car?
In this episode Sunira Chaudhri and Matt Cauz debate:
Former Prime Minister Joe Clark says the House of Commons has become "more a stage than an institution." Clark also voiced concern that there will be growing cynicism about politics. Do you agree with the former Primer Minister?
Taylor Swift's NFL era is worth $331 million to the Kansas City Chiefs. Apex Marketing Group estimates the singer's relationship with Travis Kelce has boosted the team's brand value. Is Taylor Swift good for football? Toronto club and bar owners continue to push for a later 'last call.’ Some want to see alcohol served until 4 or 5 a.m. to generate more revenue and attract large events. Would you be on board with a later last call?
In this episode Kari Vierimaa and Raj Girn debate
Coding for kindergartners. Ontario's revamped school curriculum may include coding. It comes as experts warn about excessive screen time. Do you think kindergarten is too young for coding?
New York declares social media as a public health hazard. Mayor Eric Adams calls it an 'environmental toxin', comparing the designation to a surgeon general warning on tobacco or guns. Do you think social media is a public health hazard?
A Formula 1 team is being widely mocked for its name, 'Visa Cash App RB'. The name is being called an example of blatant corporatism in sports. If a company sponsors a team/stadium should they be able to name it as they wish?
In this episode Anita Kirkbride and Neil Hedley debate:
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith shared the stage with U.S. commentator Tucker Carlson. The former Fox News personality was in Calgary on Wednesday. Was it a bad move politically for Smith to appear on stage with Carlson?
Some 'risky play' can be good for children according to The Canadian Pediatric Society. Despite some parents' reluctance, the new guidance says unstructured, outdoor activities can be good for their mental health. Do you agree?
'Loud budgeting' is the latest online trend helping people state their financial goals and save money. It's being called GenZ's take on financial accountability through oversharing. Do you think it's a positive trend?
In this episode Samantha Kemp-Jackson and Dan Laxer debate:
The Trudeau government is preparing for the possibility of another Trump presidency, with a 'Team Canada engagement strategy.' PM Trudeau says Trump represents a level of 'unpredictability.’ Would another Trump presidency be bad for Canada?
Toronto Police might not get the budget increase they hoped for, according to the city’s proposed budget. Mayor Chow is proposing an extra $18M – while the Police Board had asked for a boost of $30M. Is the City of Toronto’s proposal enough?
Model and cookbook writer Chrissy Teigen admits her son isn't a good eater. Teigen says her 5-year-old has 'never' eaten a vegetable. Should you force your kids to eat their veggies?
In this episode Clare Blackwood and Mike Kakuk debate:
The Doomsday Clock is set at 90 seconds to midnight, warning the world is in a time of unprecedented danger. The clock doesn't measure threats, but is meant to spark conversations. Do you put any stock in the Doomsday Clock?
Less than two months after being suspended for 'unacceptable' conduct, NHLer Corey Perry has signed with the Edmonton Oilers. Perry says his conduct was related to mental health and substance abuse. Does Perry deserve another chance in the league?
Barbie snubbed at the Academy Awards? Neither lead actor Margot Robbie nor director Greta Gerwig were nominated, but Ryan Gosling was. Should Robbie & Gerwig have been nominated?
In this episode Laura Babcock and Mel Woods debate:
Canada is reducing the number of international student permits by 35%. The Immigration minister hopes this will clamp down on institutions and 'bad actors' while helping the housing crisis. Is this a good first step in addressing the housing crisis?
Halifax is no longer testing ice thickness on lakes, saying climate change has limited people's ability to skate on the bodies of water. The money saved will go into maintaining manufactured ice. Does it make sense to stop testing the ice?
A cheeseburger with a waiver on the side? A U.S. customer was asked to sign a waiver after ordering their burger cooked medium. Ontario food safety laws say ground beef should be well done. Would you eat a meal if it came with a waiver?
In this episode Paola Samuel and Andrew Perez debate:
-Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre claims the mayors of Quebec City and Montreal are blocking construction projects. The mayors say he's playing petty politics. Is taking on Quebec mayors a smart political move by Poilievre?
- Ontario MPPs won't get a raise this year - and they haven't had one since 2008. Some see it as prudent during a cost of living crisis, while others worry it could deter the best & brightest from running for provincial politics. Should MPPs get a raise?
- Madonna is being sued by two fans for 'false advertising and negligent misrepresentation.’ They're upset her Brooklyn concerts were supposed to start at 8:30pm, but she appeared on stage at 10:30pm. Do you think the fans have a case?
In this episode Kate Carnegie and Neil Hedley debate
The Toronto District School Board is creating a policy to limit cellphone use in class. Some believe it distracts from learning, while others say it's a communication tool between parents and children. Should cellphone use be limited in class?
The federal government may start looking at emissions from restaurants and bakeries that use wood-fired ovens. Public health authorities warn that fine particulate pollution in wood smoke is a health risk. Should these businesses have to meet emissions standards?
Are influencers ruining the gym experience? A number of people film their workouts at the gym, but some see it as an invasion of privacy if they appear in the background. Should filming your workouts at the gym be allowed?
In this episode David Moscrop and Christine Maydossian debate:
Opposition MPs continue to have questions about PM Trudeau's vacation in Jamaica. PMO says the Trudeau family stayed with family friends, which Conservatives claim was worth $80k. Should there be a limit to how much a PM’s vacation costs?
Some Service Ontario locations are closing, while pop-up locations will be in some Staples Canada stores. The province says it will be easier for Ontarians to access services like renewing driver's licenses. Do you think it will mean better service?
Benefits to oversharing? A new study shows sharing embarrassing secrets could strengthen both personal and professional relationships. Do you feel closer to someone after they tell you a secret
In this episode Angela Champ and Dave Traffod debate:
Canada's inflation rate rose to 3.4% in December, thanks to a drop in gasoline prices. The Bank of Canada is watching inflation as it decides whether or not lower the key lending rate of 5%. Will the central bank lower interest rates next week?
The city of Brampton, ON is considering fines for inappropriate 911 calls. From complaints about a wrong coffee order, to their TV not working, local police say 40% of 911 calls are non-legitimate. Do you agree with a penalty for misusing 911?
C. has become the first province no longer consider pets as property in divorce proceedings. Instead, animals will be seen as family members where care of the animal will be considered. Do you agree with the changes?
In this episode Stewart ‘Brittlestar’ Reynolds and Mohit Rajhans debate:
Loblaws is ending its 50% discounts on 'nearly expired' food and replacing it with a 30% reduction. The grocer says the move is more consistent with their competitors. Is it fair for Loblaws to change their discount policy?
Toronto is banning tobogganing at 45 hills that have been deemed 'unsafe.’ The hills don't have a clear path from the top to the bottom without trees, ditches, etc. in the way. Is this overreach or safe planning, by the city?
The third Monday in January is also known as 'Blue Monday.’ It was started as a gimmick by a travel company, but some mental health experts say it makes sense because of the weather and holiday bills arriving. Do you believe today is the 'most depressing day of the year?’
In this episode Amanda Cupido and Chris Bumbray debate:
Financial issues could force Queen's University to close, according to the school's administration. The provincial NDP blames underfunding by the PC government. Should the school cut spending or should the province step in?
A recent poll shows Canadians are finding social media sites less enjoyable than a year ago. Many users say the overall experience on X, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram have worsened. Do you agree?
An A-I generated stand-up comedy special is being blasted by George Carlin's daughter. The hour-long show sounds like the comedian who died in 2008. Kelly Carlin warns we're on a slippery slope Are you worried about AI-generated specials like this?
In this episode Deirdre Mitchell-MacLean and Neil Hedley debate
New polling numbers show the Conservatives continue to hold a double-digit lead over the Liberals. Nanos numbers show the Tories are 12 points ahead of the Liberals in voter intentions. Are Conservatives most likely to win in the next election?
Restaurants Canada warns 1 in 5 establishments could close if the government doesn't extend the CEBA repayment deadline. Loans were first due at the end of 2022, but the deadline was moved to January 18, 2024. Should the deadline be extended again?
A new parenting trend has emerged called the "whatever makes you happy hour.” Parents allow their kids free-range play time to expend energy while the adults get a break. Some say it can help children learn how to clean up their own mess. Do you agree with the technique?
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