The Current The Current

"I'd like to rip someone's throat" Frank McKenna on the trade war

Sep 10, 2026 · 25m

Summary

Former New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna discusses Canada's trade strategy with the U.S., emphasizing the need for interprovincial free trade and global market diversification to build leverage. He also reflects on national unity and his $20 million donation to St. Francis Xavier University. The episode features a beachside interview with musician Lisa LeBlanc, who shares the story behind her new album, Patchwork, and her connection to Acadian culture and Louisiana.

Topics discussed

Midas Tire advertisement Introduction to The Current special edition Introduction of Frank McKenna and his home McKenna on trade deal optimism and Canadian economy Diplomatic strategy and the Will Rogers quote Praise for Dominic LeBlanc's negotiation style Challenges of diplomacy and maintaining discipline Retaliation strategies and building leverage Barriers to interprovincial free trade Is Canada working? A national perspective Critique of referendums and provincial separatism National unity and pride in Canadian identity Frank McKenna's $20 million donation to St. FX Pride in national resilience and support for government Why Frank McKenna stays in New Brunswick Transition to La Boiteau Beach and Lisa LeBlanc Introduction to Lisa LeBlanc and her camper van Lisa LeBlanc's musical upbringing and banjo The charm and conversation-starting nature of the banjo Early songwriting and desire to be a rock star Explaining the Acadian language and patois New album 'Patchwork' and Louisiana influences Meaning behind the album title 'Patchwork' Beach performance and closing remarks Outro and podcast credits
Listen ad-free on Castria