With the next long weekend of summer on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to unwind with something entertaining, insightful, or binge-worthy. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the deck, enjoying a countryside escape, or sneaking in a podcast on your morning walk, the Newport team has you covered with their favourite audio and screen picks to carry you through the rest of the summer.
Smart & Entertaining Podcasts
Evgeniya Pollock is hooked on Curse of Politics, a sharp and witty take on Canadian political strategy hosted by seasoned insiders. Also on her list is The Line, which dives deep into military and political storytelling, and The Macko & Cauz podcast — a lighthearted mix of sports talk, wine tasting, and reflections on life.
For true crime fans, Erika Friesen recommends Up Against the Mob, hosted by former federal prosecutor Elie Honig. “It’s true crime light,” she says — intriguing, but not nightmare-inducing.
Steve Hafner enjoys The Rest is Politics: US, offering smart takes on American affairs, and The Decibel by The Globe and Mail, which delivers a distinctly Canadian lens on current events.
Clarkson’s back — but not in the driver’s seat. Caitlin Chapman recommends Clarkson’s Farm, a docuseries that captures Jeremy Clarkson’s unexpected pivot from Top Gear host to English farmer. “It’s funny and surprisingly relatable,” she shares. “It reminds us that retirement doesn’t have to be about slowing down—it can be a passionate, hands-on next chapter.”
Michelle Ali recently binged The Residence on Netflix, a murder mystery with a sharp political edge. “It’s an entertaining ‘whodunit’ that playfully pokes at the inner workings of the White House,” she says.
Rosa Beltijeh recommends the Taylor Sheridan universe — Yellowstone, 1923, and 1883. These binge-worthy dramas mix family, legacy, and grit in beautifully filmed settings, perfect for summer evenings.
Owen Clark’s latest streaming pick is Your Friends & Neighbors, offering clever character dynamics and plenty of intrigue.
Laura Jacobs is a big fan of Owen Riegling, a small-town Ontario country artist with a big heart. “Not only is he incredibly talented, but he’s also a kind soul,” she says, recounting a VIP event where donations to a local charity earned entry. “That really stuck with me.”
Ryan Coogler’s latest movie is a must-see—and a must-hear. The soundtrack to Sinners blends grit and soul, with standout guitar work by newcomer Miles Caton. “It’s raw, bluesy, and unforgettable,” says Elizabeth Pizzinato. “I loved the film, and I’ve had the soundtrack on repeat ever since.”
Whether you’re in the mood to laugh, learn, or get lost in a gripping storyline, we hope these picks add something fresh to your summer queue.