The journalist Jesse Brown talks with Joseph Planta, about Canadaland, a dynamic new podcast that attempts to bring thoughtful media criticism to Canada, looking at the Canadian journalism and media scene.

Text of introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, at TheCommentary.ca.

Jesse Brown joins me now. The journalist and humorist, formerly of Maclean’s, TVO, and the CBC recently debuted a new podcast: Canadaland. It’s a terrific program where he presents insightful discussions about the Canadian media scene. And Mr. Brown is eminently acquainted with it, what with his programs The Contrarians, and Search Engine, which aired on CBC Radio, the latter which went over to TVO’s website until it ended last year. He’s written for Saturday Night, winning a National Magazine Award for humour, as well his writing has appeared in the Globe and Mail, the National Post, and Vice. On his program he pricks the pomposity of journalism in Canada, holding the insular world of media to account. The subtitle of the show is: ‘Old Canada vs. New Canada.’ His guests provide marvelous insight. When the program began in October, his first guest was the CBC’s Michael Enright. It’s a fascinating conversation between the two, as are later episodes which deal with everything, from the politics at the public broadcaster, the wireless business in this country, the nature of creating television and film in Canada—the business and art side; as well as two Canadians who are making a go of it in Los Angeles, among others. I’ll get him to tell us about the show, what he wants to accomplish, and the feedback he’s gotten thus far. Though this is a program we need in this country, I suspect it’s not a comfortable experience for those of us listening, and I’m curious to know what he’s heard back so far. Go to www.canadalandshow.com to stream and/or download the show. It’s a really fine program. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, in Toronto, Jesse Brown; Mr. Brown, good morning.

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