The Third Take Pod

In this introductory episode of our mini-series on Cuba, we go over the Cuban energy crisis, the blockade imposed by the US, and how the country has developed an economy rooted in care.

In consecutive episodes, we'll be taking a deeper dive into the topics we introduce here: healthcare, education, energy, labour, agriculture, and the environment.

The Cuban people remind us that better is possible, and that we must not dream so small; that the leadership and economy of a country should be determined by all its' people.

As we enter another "unprecedented times" moment, yet again, in this episode we shed a light on the history of US-Iran relations, the recent escalations, and the probability of WWIII which many believe has already begun. Join us as we try to cover a century of history and provide context on the goals of the different parties involved.

In this episode Lubaba and Tuaha share three big wins--flashes of joy--that we must celebrate as we navigate the volatile times we are in. This episode was recorded before Feb 27, 2026.

In this episode, we discuss the recent US regime change operation in Venezuela. Is it a democratic Venezuela that the US wants, or is it all about oil and power?

In this episode, we dive into Mr. Cardamom's (Zohran Mamdani) groundbreaking win in the Democratic primary and what this means for leftist politics on both sides of the border. From grassroots organizing to policy implications, we explore how Mamdani’s victory signals a shift in progressive momentum and offers hope for activists, policymakers, and anyone invested in building a more just and equitable future.

Join us for a critical look at the intersections of truth, mobility, and workers’ rights in our rapidly changing world. In this episode, we focus on targeted Israeli attacks on Palestinian journalists, like Anas al-Sharif, in Gaza and their implications for press freedom in conflict zones. We also examine the evolving inhumane and unfair visa policies faced by Gazans seeking entry to Canada and the United States. Additionally, we highlight Zohran Mamdani’s affordability campaign as a beacon of hope for leftist movements fighting economic inequality. Finally, we discuss the recent Air Canada flight attendants’ strike victory, which demands fair wages and better working conditions.

Just weeks into Donald Trump's second term, it feels as though an entire year has passed. In this episode, we recap the seismic shifts of the Trump Administration 2.0 and explore the aftershocks reverberating across the globe - from the political landscape in Ontario to the upcoming Canadian federal election. Join us as we analyze how these monumental changes are reshaping events worldwide.

For the longest time, Canadians have prided themselves for their "universal healthcare" system when comparing it to the U.S. However, due to years of austerity measures and funding cuts by mostly Conservative provincial governments, the future of "universal healthcare" hangs in the balance. Join us as we shine a light on why we must act now to save -- arguably -- our most vital public service.

Join us as we reflect on the whirlwind of events that began on this year's Spotify Wrapped Day, reshaping the global landscape in just 10 days. From the fall of Assad's dictatorship in Syria to President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed self-coup attempt in South Korea, we explore how these monumental changes are setting the stage for unexpected shifts in the world order. We also discuss the recent collapse of the French government, Israel's ongoing violations of international law, and the arrest of Luigi Mangione, which is sparking a resurgence of class consciousness in the U.S. Tune in for insights on these pivotal moments!

Did you know Tr*mp was elected president recently in the US? (hint: we did an episode on it)

D.Tr*mp has released a tentative list of people he wants to appoint to his cabinet, and we, like many others, have a lot to say about them. From modern day crusaders to podcast bros who have stated that they want to "enact revenge on Tr*mp's critics," learn more about his picks to lead the (arguably) most powerful nation in the world.

The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, Yoav Gallant, the former Defence Minister. However, like clockwork we are seeing some powerful Western nations to a 180, and going back on their promises to uphold international law. So, what does this mean for the sanctity of international law? Will this set a precedent for future war criminals to dodge accountability? Find out more in this episode of the Third Take.

In this engaging episode, Lubaba and Tuaha dive into the complex world of identity politics. As South Asians, how might our leaders work against our own people? They further explore origins of identity politics in radical Black feminism, originally intended to foster solidarity, and how it has since been weaponized by both right-wing groups and neoliberals for their own agendas. With the current geopolitical climate and the rise of far-right movements—including Trump’s second presidential victory—Lubaba and Tuaha share the dangers of such weaponization.

During her visit to Canada last week, Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, reiterated that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Join Lubaba and Tuaha as they share insights from two events featuring Albanese in Toronto, exploring how labour movements intersect with Palestinian issues and why solidarity is essential.

Do we need to send the US Empire to therapy? As we approach the eve of the 2024 US Election, Lubaba and Tuaha explore the origins and current state of the US Empire, the consequences and repercussions the election will have on the most vulnerable at home and abroad, and what the future might hold for the empire itself.