List of Debaters radio episodes

Al Rae argues in favour of opening the borders and increasing immigration, while his opponent, Korean Canadian Paul Bae says, "Enough is enough!" Next up, Gary Jones argues that legalizing prostitution will take all the fun out of "snagging a hooker," while Deb Kimmett counters that legalizing the sex trade will make it easier for kids to pick out a Father's Day present.^[2]
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Immigration: Bae (1-0) def. Rae (0-1)

Prostitution: Kimmett (1-0) def. G. Jones (0-1)

Veteran stand-up Glen Foster matches wits with Trevor Boris on the topic of "Free Speech - sometimes is it better to just shut up?" In Round Two, Winnipegger Bruce Clark and Maritimer Brad Muise debate the merits of that passing fad - The Internet.^[3]
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Freedom of Expression: Boris (1-0) def. Foster (0-1)

The Internet: Muise (1-0) def. B. Clark (0-1)

Deb Kimmett and Al Rae debate about same sex marriage. Irwin Barker and Simon Rakoff debate about the military. NOTES: In this episode, Deb Kimmett and Al Rae became the first debaters to return to the show.^[4]
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Same-sex Marriage: Kimmett (2-0) def. Rae (0-2)

Military Spending: Barker (1-0) def. Rakoff (0-1)

Should we be able to use the miracles of modern cosmetic surgery to repair, replace or enhance the bits of ourselves we don't like? Or are the things we don't like just a normal part of living and aging - something we should accept? Deborah Williams and Diana Frances tackle this topic. Also: is it ever okay to smack your kid? Does the caterwauling child in the mall need a lesson in getting along with others or simply a well-placed swat from Mum or Dad? Erica Sigurdson and Ian Boothby take this one on.^[5]
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Cosmetic Surgery: Frances (1-0) def. Williams (0-1)

Corporal Punishment: Sigurdson (1-0) def. Boothby (0-1)

Just how sick is Canada's healthcare system? Should it be privatized? That's Question One this week as The Debaters brings wit and wisdom to bear on the topics of the day. Deb Kimmett and Irwin Barker face off on how to heal the system. Then it's Winnipeg's Bruce Clarke against Vancouver's Gary Jones on the issue of colonizing space. Should any nation - can any nation - claim sovereignty over a chunk of the universe?^[6]
NOTES: This is the first episode in which every debater is a return guest.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Health Care: Barker (2-0) def. Kimmett (2-1)

Space Exploration: B. Clark (1-1) def. G. Jones (0-2)

It's dueling Don Cherry imitators, as comedians Peter Kelamis and Dan Licoppe face off on whether Donald S. Cherry should be benched. Kelamis argues that Grapes is the conscience of puck loving Canucks. Licoppe can't believe we voted him the 7th greatest Canadian. It's a "rock 'em sock 'em" debate. Next up, comedian Erica Sigurdson berates comedy veteran Jeff Rothpan on his belief that psychological counseling helps build self esteem.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Don Cherry: Kelamis (1-0) def. Licoppe (0-1)

Psychotherapy: Sigurdson (2-0) def. Rothpan (0-1)

Elvira Kurt and comedy heavyweight Scott Thompson duke it out over whether our celebrity obsession is a sickness. Next up, sparks fly as Winnipeg funnyman Al Rae and Vancouver comedy veteran J.P. Mass debate whether smoking should be allowed in public spaces.
NOTES: The celebrities debate is the first one to ever be declared a tie. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Celebrity: Kurt (0-0-1) TIED Thompson (0-0-1)

Smoking in Public: Rae (1-2) def. Mass (0-1)

Gary Jones takes on Tim Rykert in a battle over which is the better city - Toronto or Vancouver? And Mom's the Word's Deb Williams debates Tonight Show veteran Jeff Rothpan on the topic of Senior Care - should we keep our ailing parents at home or stick 'em on the nearest ice floe?
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Toronto vs. Vancouver: G. Jones (0-2-1) TIED Rykert (0-0-1)

Elder Care: Williams (1-1) def. Rothpan (0-2)

Vancouver comedians Paul Bae and Charlie Demers debate the sanity of spending millions on the Olympics. Next up, Simon Rakoff is beside himself as he debates none other than Simon Rakoff - no, really! NOTES: This was the first time one debater (Simon Rakoff) argued both sides of the same debate.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Olympics: Demers (1-0) def. Bae (1-1)
Mixed Marriages: Rakoff (1-2) def. Rakoff (1-2)

Rakoff is credited with both a win and a loss, for defeating himself.

Trevor Boris and Glen "That Canadian Guy" Foster try to muzzle each other as they face off on the limits of free speech. Also, Deb Kimmett and Al Rae battle over same sex marriage. It's rights and freedoms, this week on The Debaters. This is a re-edited episode including two previously aired debates ("Free Speech" from S01E02 and "Same Sex Marriage" from S01E03) edited together as a new episode pairing.

This is the first "repackaged" Debaters episode to air.

Is an arranged marriage really the way to go? Diana Frances and Veena Sood (as The Maharani) debate the subject of arranged marriages in the age of internet dating. Then Irwin Barker and Sean Proudlove peer into a cloudy, smoke-filled room and try to bring some clarity to the subject of marijuana trafficking.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Arranged Marriage: V. Sood (1-0) def. Frances (1-1)

Legalizing Marijuana: Barker (3-0) def. Proudlove (0-1)

It's American Thanksgiving so The Debaters takes on the Yanks! Shaun Majumder moderates as former U.S. Marine Danny Bevins pulls out the big guns to prove to Winnipegger, Al Rae that U.S. foreign policy is justified. And American radio personality Mark Maron challenges our own Simon Rakoff's misguided notion that Canada and the U.S. should merge.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
U.S. Foreign Policy: Rae (2-2) def. Bevins (0-1)

U.S./Canada Merger: Maron (1-0) def. Rakoff (1-3)

Dan Redican and Simon Rakoff argue whether we should put the Christ back in Christmas. Next up, Carrie Gaetz and Steve Patterson face off on the issue of fur and whether we need to skin little animals to keep our chestnuts toasty.
NOTES: This is Steve Patterson's first appearance on the show as a debater. He would be one of the guest hosts in season two, and become the show's full time host beginning in season three.
Simon Rakoff became the first debater to appear in back-to-back episodes. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Christmas: Rakoff (2-3) def. Redican (0-1)

Wearing Fur: Gaetz (1-0) def. Patterson (0-1)

Codco legend Greg Malone faces off against writer Deb Kimmett on the subject of religion. Then things really heat up when Toronto funnyman Albert Howell and "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster, debate Canada's role in halting the ravages of global warming.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Global Warming: Howell (1-0) def. Foster (0-2)

Religion: Kimmett (3-1) def. Malone (0-1)

First up this week: just how sick is Canada's healthcare system? Should it be privatized? Deb Kimmett and Irwin Barker grab their pads to write a prescription for funny on this hot topic. Then Erica Sigurdson and Ian Boothby turn their attention to spanking... no, not each other! How much punishment is OK? When should you start and should we be allowed to spank other people's kids?

This is a re-edited episode including two previously aired debates ("Spanking" from S01E04 and "Health Care" from S01E05) edited together as a new episode pairing.

Newfoundlander Jonny Harris schools Winnipeg funnyman Irwin Barker on why rap music is corrupting our youth. Next up, "22 Minutes" star Cathy Jones goes toe to toe with comedian Jan Whalen on whether school uniforms should be mandatory.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Rap: Harris (0-0-1) TIED Barker (3-0-1)

School Uniforms: Whalen (1-0) def. C. Jones (0-1)

Mary Walsh battles "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster over Stephen Harper's proposed "Three Strikes" legislation. Next up, Cape Breton funnyman Ed Macdonald serves up jibes and dishes out insults as he takes on 22 Minutes' Gavin Crawford on the issue of trans-fats and the food industry.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Processed Food: Macdonald (1-0) def. Crawford (0-1)

Three Strikes: Walsh (1-0) def. Foster (0-3)

Shaun Majumder tries to keep tongues civil as Toronto comedian Dan Redican fights Quebecer Derek Seguin on the issue of bilingualism. Next up, "Little Mosque on the Prairie's" Deb McGrath squares off against Ottawa comic Rick Currie over the relevance of the monarchy.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Royalty: McGrath (1-0) def. Currie (0-1)

Bilingualism: D. Seguin (1-0) def. Redican (0-2)

Pat McKenna (aka Harold on the "Red Green Show") squares off against fellow Second City Alumnus Deb Kimmett on whether adult kids who live at home should be given the boot. Next up, that sardonic funnyman Simon Rakoff tries to convince aboriginal comedian Don Kelly that Canada's native population would be better off without special status.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Adults Living with Parents: McKenna (1-0) def. Kimmett (3-2)

Native Rights: Kelly (1-0) def. Rakoff (2-4)

Carrie Gaetz and Pat Mckenna duke it out over whether customer service is an oxymoron. Next up, the man we call "The Professor," Irwin Barker, tries to teach that whippersnapper Elvira Kurt that parents today are just too darn protective of their kids. The words are so sharp that somebody could poke an eye out!
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Customer Service: Gaetz (2-0) def. McKenna (1-1)

Protective Parents: Kurt (1-0-1) def. Barker (3-1-1)

Stand-up comic Dave Nystrom battles funnyman Irwin Barker over whether even polite panhandlers should be allowed on our streets. Next up, comedian Elvira Kurt argues that technology has not helped us as much as her techno-geek opponent Albert Howell would have us believe.
NOTES: Irwin Barker and Elvira Kurt both appear in back-to-back episodes. In the previous episode, they debated each other. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Technological Innovation: Kurt (2-0-1) def. Howell (1-1)

Panhandlers: Barker (4-1-1) def. Nystrom (0-1)

Calgary funnyman Cris Nannarone and Edmonton comic Lars Callieou duke it out over which city is the true capital of the province. Also on the bill, transplanted Maritimer Andrew Grose is out to prove to Winnipegger Al Rae that Alberta is a great place to move to. They call Alberta "big sky" country but this week it's "big mouth" country! Elvira Kurt guest hosts.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Move to Alberta: Grose (1-0) def. Rae (2-3)

Alberta's Capital: Callieou (1-0) def. Nannarone (0-1)

Funny white guy Pat McKenna tries to convince black comic Kenny Robinson that Canada is a racially tolerant society. Then, doused with body spray and waxed to a hairless shine, comedian Tom Rubins tries to prove to old-fashioned comedienne Carrie Gaetz that "metrosexual" is as manly as a man can be.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Racial Tolerance: McKenna (1-1-1) TIED Robinson (0-0-1)

Metrosexuals: Rubins (1-0) def. Gaetz (2-1)

Roman Danylo (Comedy Inc.) and Neil Grahn (Three Dead Trolls) exchange blows about whether the telephone has brought us closer together or not. Next up, Calgary comics Brad Muise and Cory Mack mix it up "old school" as they debate the merits of attending one's high school reunion.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Telephones: Danylo (1-0) def. Grahn (0-1)

School Reunions: Muise (2-0) def. Mack (0-1)

Vancouver comedian Ellie Harvie takes on Edmonton's Andrew Grose on whether lies are essential to a good marriage. Next on the bill, Calgary comic Jebb Fink takes the moral high ground as he clashes with Vancouver's Erica Sigurdson on the topic of government involvement in the gambling biz. Guest Host: Elvira Kurt.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Lying in Marriage: Grose (2-0) def. Harvie (0-1)

Government in Gambling: Sigurdson (3-0) def. Fink (0-1)

From the CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival, hometown favorite Irwin Barker is out to prove to Ottawa native Rick Currie that The Peg should really be our Nation's Capital. Also on the bill, Toronto funny gal Laurie Elliott tries to rehabilitate Montreal ladies' man Sugar Sammy, and show him why dating rules and etiquette are essential.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Winnipeg as Capital: Barker (5-1-1) def. Currie (0-2)

Dating Rules: Elliott (1-0) def. Sugar Sammy (0-1)

Guest host Patrick McKenna moderates as musical funnyman Sean Cullen attempts to prove to diva Mary Lou Fallis that opera is bombastic, incomprehensible and much too loud. Then Debra Digiovanni and Trevor Boris face off on the subject of YouTube and whether user-generated content is the future of entertainment.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Opera: Fallis (1-0) def. S. Cullen (0-1)

YouTube: DiGiovanni (0-0-1) TIED Boris (1-0-1)

From the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, aboriginal actor and Corner Gas cop Lorne Cardinal makes an arresting argument that Louis Riel was a hero, while Prairie funnyman Al Rae insists that the Metis leader deserved his fate. Next up, two comedians of South Asian descent, Veena Sood and Sabrina Jalees, go toe-to-toe on whether immigrants should make more of an effort to fit in.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Louis Riel: Cardinal (1-0) def. Rae (2-4)

Immigrants Fitting In: V. Sood (2-0) def. Jalees (0-1)

Prairie comics Big Daddy Tazz and Dean Jenkinson fling the fertilizer as they debate whether the government should shovel subsidies onto family farms. Next up, self-proclaimed feminist Dan Licoppe tries to convince Erica Sigurdson that bare-breasted sun-tanning is every woman's right.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Farm Subsidies: Jenkinson (1-0) def. Tazz (0-1)

Naked Tanning: Sigurdson (4-0) def. Licoppe (0-2)

Have women's lives improved since the 1960s? In honour of Mothers Day, funny guy Tim Steeves attempts to subjugate Second City veteran Deb Kimmett to the point at which she admits that "gals" are better off now than forty years ago. Next up, author and comedian John Wing is in a state of disbelief as Quebec comic Derek Seguin tries to demonstrate that the state of the English language has never been "more better".
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Feminism: Kimmett (4-2) def. Steeves (0-1)

English: Wing (0-0-1) TIED D. Seguin (1-0-1)

George Westerholm sets out to prove to Steve Patterson that our love affair with cars has made the world a better place. That could only be on The Debaters. Then New York comedienne Leigh Ann Lord tries to convince Simon Rakoff that our governments' post-911 snooping, probing, and shampoo confiscating is not worth any increased security it may seem to provide.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Auto-topia: Patterson (1-1) def. Westerholm (0-1)

Homeland Security: Lord (1-0) def. Rakoff (2-5)

Comedy pugilists Gary Jones and Peter Kelamis drop their gloves to debate whether our hockey obsession actually benefits the nation. Also on the bill, funny gals Erica Sigurdson and Ellie Harvie take sides as they argue the merits of prenuptial agreements. The gloves are off in either case!
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Canadian Hockey: G. Jones (1-2-1) def. Kelamis (1-1)

Prenups: Sigurdson (5-0) def. Harvie (0-2)

Eccentric Winston Spear tries to convince an incredulous Steve Patterson that advertising makes our world a better place. Also on the bill, Toronto comic Lawrence Morgenstern aims to shoot holes in Erica Sigurdson's assertion that all handguns should be outlawed.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Gun Laws: Sigurdson (6-0) def. Morgenstern (0-1)

Advertising: Patterson (1-1-1) TIES Spear (0-0-1)

The Debaters stands up for national pride this week (it's Canada Day after all) with a no-verbal-holds-barred slugfest over what it means to be Canadian. First up, comedian Ryan Belleville battles funny guy Tim Nutt over whether this country's "maple syrup and Mounties" national image needs a makeover. Also on the bill, Montrealers Derek Seguin and Joey Elias exchange comedic blows over whether Quebec deserves to be called a nation.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Canada's Image: Nutt (1-0) def. Belleville (0-1)

Quebec Nation: D. Seguin (2-0-1) def. Elias (0-1)

In a tribute to the waning days of summer, funny gal Deb Kimmett and gravel-voiced comic Mike Wilmot square off on the great Canadian pastime of camping. Next up, TV writers Tim Steeves ("The Mercer Report") and Al Rae ("Little Mosque on the Prairie") debate whether talented Canadians should resist the lure of Hollywood and stick it out in Canadian show business. Guest host Sean Cullen is sure to weigh in with a few thoughts of his own.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Camping: Wilmot (1-0) def. Kimmett (4-3)

Canadian Talent: Rae (3-4) def. Steeves (0-2)

Former teachers Paul Bae and Jeffrey Yu square off over whether teachers are under-appreciated. Also - still in back-to-school mode, Christian comic Leland Klassen is out to prove to the skeptically funny Bruce Clark that creationism is as legitimate a theory as evolution. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Teachers: Yu (1-0) def. Bae (1-2)

Creationism: B. Clark (1-1-1) TIED Klassen (0-0-1)

Writer and comedian Tim Steeves is out for blood this week on The Debaters, as he tears into funny lady Laurie Elliot on the topic of vegetarianism. Next up, poor hard-done-by Glen Foster tries to prove to black comedian Kenny Robinson that the middle-aged white man faces more discrimination than anybody else in the country. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Vegetarians: Steeves (1-2) def. Elliott (1-1)

Reverse Racism: Robinson (1-0-1) def. Foster (0-4)

Mike MacDonald and John Wing, both currently living in Los Angeles, go toe-to-toe over whether America should look to Canada for leadership and direction. Next up, internet developer and comedian Jamie Ollivier tries to convince a skeptical Allyson Smith that online dating is a great way to meet that special someone. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
U.S. Like Canada: Wing (1-0-1) def. MacDonald (0-1)

Online Dating: A. Smith (1-0) def. Ollivier (0-1)

Greg Proops (Whose Line is it Anyway) takes on Elvira Kurt on the topic of cameras and privacy. Then two adopted children (now all grown up) - Diana Frances and Ian Boothby - argue about whether looking for birth parents is a sensible thing to do. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Too Many Cameras: Kurt (3-0-1) def. Proops (0-1)

Adoption: Frances (2-1) def. Boothby (0-2)

Mike Wilmot is out to prove to Kate Davis (The Breastfeeding Diaries) that men have no place in the hospital delivery room. And then, it's the first-ever musical debate as comedy duo The Doo Wops challenge songwriter George Westerholm on his belief that cloning humans would be a bad idea. NOTE: This is the first episode in the hosting chair for Steve Patterson who would later become the show's full time host. NOTE: This is the first time one side of the debate is represented by more than one person (the musical duo The Doo Wops). TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Dads in the Delivery Room: Wilmot (2-0) def. Davis (0-1)

Human Cloning: Westerholm (1-1) def. The Doo Wops (0-1)

It's Halloween! But is this so-called holiday just an excuse for bad nutrition and even worse behaviour? West Coast comedienne Erica Sigurdson tries to convince funnyman and TV host Jon Dore that Halloween should be banned. Then conspiracy theorist J.P. Mass has the frightening task of convincing pragmatic funnyman Irwin Barker that aliens have walked among us. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Hallowe'en: Sigurdson (7-0) def. Dore (0-1)

Alien Visitors: Mass (1-1) def. Barker (5-2-1)

Cigar smoking, scotch drinking comic veteran John Wing tries to convince a fit and funny Erica Sigurdson that we are over-obsessed with health and fitness. Also on the bill, American comics Marc Maron and Darryl Lenox battle it out over whether technology has made us free and powerful. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Fitness Obsession: Wing (2-0-1) def. Sigurdson (7-1)

Technology: Maron (2-0) def. Lenox (0-1)

It's a comedy cage match this week as youngster Jeff McEnery and Trevor Boris go toe to toe over whether pro wrestling can be called a sport. But first, forty-something funnyman Mike Wilmot tries to pin Deb Kimmett to the mat and prove that our middle years are the best years of all. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Immigration: Wilmot (3-0) def. Kimmett (4-4)

Prostitution: McEnery (1-0) def. Boris (1-1-1)

From the CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival, hometown favorite Irwin Barker is out to convince Ottawa native Rick Currie that The Peg should really be our nation's capital. Also on the bill, eccentric funnyman Winston Spears tries to promote his message and prove to Steve Patterson that advertising makes the world a better place.

This is a re-edited episode including two previously aired debates ("Advertising" from S01E24 and "Winnipeg the Capital" from S01E31) edited together as a new episode pairing.

Surrey housewife Mrs. Gupta (Veena Sood) nearly pops her bindi when Vancouver comic Drew McCreadie tries to convince her that men should be allowed to have more than one wife. Also on our comedy double bill, it's an outright war when funnyman Damonde Tschritter tries to convince Montrealer Derek Seguin that mandatory military service would be good for our nation. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Military Training: D. Seguin (3-0-1) def. Tschritter (0-1)

Polygamy: V. Sood (3-0) def. McCreadie (0-1)

Are racial stereotypes all that bad? Vancouver comedians Paul Bae and Jeffrey Yu argue over whether stereotypes actually have value. Also on the bill, Derek Seguin tries to sweet talk Erica Sigurdson into agreeing that flirting is harmless fun. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Stereotypes: Bae (2-2) def. Yu (1-1)

Flirting: Sigurdson (8-1) def. D. Seguin (3-1-1)

In light of dog-fights, doping and dumb behaviour, do pro athletes deserve our adulation? Guest host Sean Cullen moderates this week on The Debaters as Toronto's Elvira Kurt and New York heavyweight Darryl Lenox go toe-to-toe over whether sports stars should be our role models. Also on the comedy card, Tim Reichert tries to convince Charlie Demers that atheism is superior to faith. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Athlete Role Models: Kurt (4-0-1) def. Lenox (0-2)

Atheism: Reichert (1-0) def. Demers (1-1)

Guest host Sean Cullen presides as Daryn Jones ("MTV Live") and Trevor Boris (Much Music's "Video on Trial") argue whether celebrity activists such as Sean Penn and Susan Sarandon do any good at all. Next up, Toronto funny gal Judy Croon administers a lethal dose of comedy as she tries to prove to Simon Rakoff that certain criminals deserve to be executed. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Death Penalty: Rakoff (3-5) def. Croon (0-1)

Activists: Boris (2-1-1) def. D. Jones (0-1)

Steve Patterson takes over as host starting this week on The Debaters. Alan Park goes AWOL from the Air Farce to take on West Coast funnyman Peter Kelamis over whether we should come down harder on China's human rights transgressions. Later, Debra DiGiovanni of Last Comic Standing and Kristeen von Hagen of Comedy Now fight tooth and claw over whether our obsession with pets has gone too far. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
China Relations: Park (1-0) def. Kelamis (1-2)

Pet Obsession: DiGiovanni (1-0-1) def. von Hagen (0-1)

People who dislike former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney tend to be quite passionate in their antipathy. Non-fans of the late Pierre Trudeau are equally so. Ottawa comic Carrie Gaetz defends Mulroney and Simon Rakoff goes to bat for Trudeau. Still on the subject of Great Canadians, Edmonton funnyman Neil Grahn reaches deep into his tautological tickle trunk to convince Dan Redican (The Frantics) that Mr. Dressup beats The Friendly Giant any day of the week. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Mr. Dressup vs. The Friendly Giant: Grahn (1-1) def. Redican (0-3)

Mulroney vs. Trudeau: Rakoff (4-5) def. Gaetz (2-2)

From Regina, writer/comedian Al Rae is out to teach Little Mosque on the Prairie's Muslim curmudgeon Baber (Manoj Sood) that he better have knowledge of our nation's history if he wants to call himself a true Canadian. And then, Ottawa funny gal Carrie Gaetz finds it hard to swallow Big Daddy Tazz's argument that genetically modified foods must be outlawed. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Canadian History: M. Sood (1-0) def. Rae (3-5)

GMOs: Taz (1-1) def. Gaetz (2-3)

In a program devoted to Valentine's Day, Romantic realist Judy Croon tries to convince author and comedian "Humble" Howard Glassman that the holiday actually does nothing to promote love. Next up on our hearts and flowers episode, surprisingly romantic Al Rae does his best to prove to newly single Deborah Kimmett that "till death do us part" is still relevant. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Valentine's Day: Croon (0-1-1) TIED Glassman (0-0-1)

Wedding Vows: Kimmett (5-4) def. Rae (3-6)

Montrealers Derek Seguin and Sugar Sammy debate whether Quebec's reasonable accommodation of minorities has gone too far. Next up, Angelo Tsarouchas ("The Funny Greek") tries to convince fellow second generation Canadian Rodney Ramsey that the children of immigrants should help their parents fit in. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Accommodation: D. Seguin (4-1-1) def. Sammy (0-2)

Immigrant Kids: Tsarouchas (0-0-1) TIED Ramsey (0-0-1)

Actor Patrick McKenna ("The Red Green Show") is riled up and ready to prove to TV talent show finalist Debra DiGiovanni (NBC's "Last Comic Standing") that all reality programs should be voted off the air. Next up, Ottawa comedians Carrie Gaetz and Don Kelly take on the topic of Conrad Black and argue whether this fallen idol of Canadian commerce should be allowed to serve his jail time in Canada. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Reality TV: McKenna (2-1-1) def. DiGiovanni (1-1-1)

Conrad Black: Kelly (2-0) def. Gaetz (2-4)

It's almost St. Patrick's Day and Montreal comics Mike Paterson and Derek Seguin square off over whether this is a legitimate holiday or just a celebration of drunkenness and Irish stereotypes. Also on our "magically delicious" double bill, "Just for Laughs" veterans David Pryde and Scott Faulconbridge exchange verbal blows on the topic of cursing and whether it is time we cleaned up our "BLEEPING" language. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
St. Patrick's Day: D. Seguin (5-1-1) def. Paterson (0-1)

Bad Language: Pryde (1-0) def. Faulconbridge (0-1)

Are comedy news programs such as The Colbert Report and The Rick Mercer Report good sources of news information? Writers Tim Steeves ("Rick Mercer Report") and Barry Julien ("The Colbert Report") do battle over whether Colbert and Mercer keep viewers informed. Next up on our hilarious half hour of "info-tainment", funny gals Heidi Foss and Deb Kimmett exchange a barrage of accusations and allegations over whether workplace gossip should get you fired. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Colbert News: Steeves (2-2) def. Julien (0-1)

Workplace Gossip: Foss (1-0) def. Kimmett (5-5)

Do we get too hot and bothered over the notion of teen sex? Second City veterans Deb Kimmett and Elvira Kurt tangle over whether sex between sixteen-year-olds is dangerous or just good clean fun. Next up on the subject of full contact sports, funny guys Jocko Alston and Denis Grignon drop the gloves over the merits of minor hockey, and whether this highly competitive youth activity deserves a game misconduct. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Teen Sex: Kimmett (5-5-1) TIED Kurt (4-0-2)

Children's Hockey: Alston (1-0) def. Grignon (0-1)

Madonna, Angelina Jolie and fellow celebrities make the headlines when they adopt children from Africa and Asia. Sabrina Jalees and Debra DiGiovanni lock horns over whether celebrity adoption of kids from the developing world is good for the child or anybody else. Later, comics Elvira Kurt and Don Kelly exchange verbal blows over big-box stores, and whether giant outlets such as Costco, Wal-Mart and Home Depot are a blight on the urban landscape. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Celebrity Adoption: DiGiovanni (1-1-2) TIED Jalees (0-1-1)

Big Box Stores: Kelly (3-0) def. Kurt (4-1-2)

Comedians Harry Doupe and Tim Steeves debate whether steroids have turned major league baseball "foul." Next up, Calgary's Brian Stollery tries to convince Winnipegger Dean Jenkinson that corporate sponsorship is giving our sports and entertainment facilities a bad name. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Baseball Steroids: Doupe (1-0) def. Steeves (2-3)

Corporate Sponsorship: Jenkinson (2-0) def. Stollery (0-1)

Warmer weather has finally arrived, and the boys - and girls - of summer are at it again, playing baseball. This week on The Debaters, comedians Harry Doupe and Tim Steeves hit comedy home runs as they debate whether steroids have turned this fair game - at least in its major-league incarnation - foul. Also still in a spring mood, Al Rae tries to convince Ottawa's Rick Currie that Canadians' obsession with their lawns is not good for them or the environment.

This is a re-edit combining two debates from other episodes ("Steroids in Baseball" from S02E24 and "Lawns" from S02E32) into a new episode. Notably it actually aired several weeks before the regular "Lawns" episode premiered.

The Arctic ice cap is melting, and foreign powers are eyeing Canada's Northern riches. This week on The Debaters, Alan Park of "Air Farce Live" is out to shoot down funny gal Carrie Gaetz's argument that Canada must protect her Arctic sovereignty with military might. Also on the show, First Nations comics Dawn Dumont and Darrell Dennis tackle the question of reserves, and whether growing up on the "rez" prepares you for life in the mainstream. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Native Reserves: Dennis (1-0) def. Dumont (0-1)

Arctic Protection: Park (2-0) def. Gaetz (2-5)

It's Mother's Day weekend, so what better question for the Debaters to tackle than whether a woman can ever be complete without children? John Wing says yes, but Teresa Pavlinek of "The Jane Show" disagrees. Later, comedians Sabrina Jalees and Erica Sigurdson go toe-to-toe on the topic of fashion, and whether the excess and narcissism of the fashion industry make it less than a model biz. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Childless Women: Pavlinek (1-0) def. Wing (2-1-1)

Fashion Business: Sigurdson (9-1) def. Jalees (0-2-1)

Are pit bulls just too dangerous? Jonny Harris and the aptly named Irwin "Barker" sink their teeth into the subject of pit bulls and whether this breed deserves to be banned across the country. Then Mark Forward tries to convince an exuberant Debra Digiovanni that the fads and fashions of the 1980s should be buried and forgotten. Taped at the Halifax Comedy Festival. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: Halifax Comedy Festival (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
RESULTS:
Pitbull Bans: Harris (1-0-1) def. Barker (5-3-1)

The 80s: Forward (1-0) def. DiGiovanni (1-2-2)

The Debaters comes to you from Nova Scotia this week, a place where Gaelic language and great Celtic culture are very much alive and well. So it's not surprising that Scottish comedian Fred MacAulay tries to convince Al Rae that Canada needs to get in touch with its Gaelic roots. Next up on our double bill of laughs and logic, comic Greg Morton uses many a funny voice to prove to Ron Sparks that "Star Wars" is better than "The Lord of the Rings. Taped at the Halifax Comedy Festival. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: Halifax Comedy Festival (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
RESULTS:
Canada Scottish: MacAuley (1-0) def. Rae (3-7)

Star Wars vs. Lord of the Rings: Morton (0-0-1) TIED Sparks (0-0-1)

It's Country Mouse versus City Mouse as rural raconteur Derek Edwards tries to convince urban advocate Mike Wilmot that small towns are the heart and soul of this country. Also this week - Arab-American comic Ray Hanania does battle with Toronto funnyman Simon Rakoff on the topic of Palestinians and whether Canada should do more to help them. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Small Towns: Edwards (1-0) def. Wilmot (3-1)

Palestinians: Rakoff (5-5) def. Hanania (0-1)

Vancouver funnyman Graham Clark tries to prove to John Beuhler that bottled water is a drain on our resources. Also, comedienne Erica Sigurdson proves herself an anti-stage mother as she tries to convince Christine Lippa that kids have no business in show business. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Bottled Water: G. Clark (1-0) def. Beuhler (0-1)

Showbiz Kids: Sigurdson (10-1) def. Lippa (0-1)

Outdoorsy comedian Toby Hargrave debates Vancouver comic Damonde Tschritter on the topic of Summer Camp this week on The Debaters. Do today's kids need to be weaned from their Wiis with a week in the woods? Next up, comedians Laurie Elliott and Kristeen Von Hagen lock horns over workplace romance, and whether it's safe to mix work and play in quite that way. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Summer Camps: Hargrave (1-0) def. Tschritter (0-2)

Workplace Romance: Elliott (2-1) TIED von Hagen (0-2)

Most suburban Canadians have a love/hate relationship with their lawns, but is growing grass really "green?" Winnipeg comic Al Rae is out to prove to Ottawa funnyman Rick Currie that trying to rescue fescue is a waste of resources. Next up, half-man half-gorilla comedian Mel Silverback (a.k.a. Dan Licoppe) wants to convince cagey comedian Bruce Clark that zoos should be outlawed. Why put a man in a gorilla suit on the radio? Well why not? TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Ban Zoos: B. Clark (2-1-1) def. Licoppe (0-3)

Ban Lawns: Currie (1-2) def. Rae (3-8)

"The Colbert Report" and "Rick Mercer Report" are popular TV shows that use headlines as a source of laughs. But are they also a good source of news? Writer-comedian Tim Steeves of the "Rick Mercer Report" and Barry Julien of "The Colbert Report") square off this week on The Debaters over whether Colbert and Mercer actually do anything to inform viewers. Later, guest host Sean Cullen (also host of CBC Radio's Simply Sean) presides as two expatriate Canadian comedy heavyweights, Mike MacDonald and John Wing, go toe-to-toe over whether America should look to Canada for direction.

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes, Canadian Leadership (S02E04) and Colbert/Mercer (S02E21).

Two bizarre twists on Reality this week on The Debaters. Gemini Award-winning comedic actor Patrick McKenna ("The Red Green Show ") is riled up and ready to prove to TV talent show finalist Debra DiGiovanni (NBC's "Last Comic Standing") that all reality programs should be voted off the air. Also, Surrey housewife Mrs. Gupta - a.k.a. comedian Veena Sood - nearly pops her bindi when Vancouver comic Drew McCreadie tries to convince her that men should be allowed to have more than one wife.

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes ("Polygamy" from S02E10 and "Reality TV" from S02E19) as a new debate pairing.

Elvira Kurt and Don Kelly exchange verbal blows over box stores and whether giant outlets such as Costco, Wal-Mart and Home Depot are a blight on urban landscapes. And after that, guest host Sean Cullen presides as funny gal Deb Kimmett and gravel-voiced comic Mike Wilmot square off on whether that quintessential Canadian pastime, camping, is good for the soul.

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes, Camping (S02E01) and Box Stores (S02E23).

Comic Greg Morton uses many a funny voice to prove to Ron Sparks that "Star Wars" is better than "The Lord of the Rings. Then, Mark Forward tries to convince an exuberant Debra Digiovanni that the fads and fashions of the 1980s should be buried and forgotten. Both debates were taped at the Halifax Comedy Festival.

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes ("The 1980s" from S02E27 and "Star Wars vs. Lord of the Rings" from S02E28) into a new debate pairing.

Do today's kids need a week in the woods, away from their Wiis? That's the question this week on the Debaters. Outdoorsy comedian Toby Hargrave debates Vancouver comic Damonde Tschritter on the virtues of summer camp. Later, guest host Roman Danylo presides over a comedy free-for-all when the hilariously unpredictable Greg Proops (Whose Line is it Anyway) takes on funny lady Elvira Kurt on the topic of cameras and privacy. Whether it's cell phone cameras in the change room or police cameras downtown, are there just too many lenses focused on you these days?

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes, Privacy and Cameras (S02E05) and Summer Camps (S02E31).

Warmer weather is upon us, but before you get too thirsty, Vancouver funnyman Graham Clark wants to prove to John Buehler and everyone else on The Debaters this week that bottled water is a drain on our resources. Next up, in light of dog fights, doping and dumb behaviour, do pro athletes deserve our adulation? Guest host Sean Cullen moderates as Toronto veteran Elvira Kurt and New York heavyweight Darryl Lenox go toe to toe over whether sports stars should be our role models.

This is a re-edit of two debates from previous episodes ("Athlete Role Models" from S02E12 and "Box Stores" from S02E30) as a new debate pairing.

After a summer of blockbuster movies including "Hell Boy," "Batman" and "Iron Man," comic book super-fans Ian Boothby and David Pryde engage in an epic battler over whether comic book superheroes make good role models. Next up on our double bill of laughs and logic, funny man Charlie Demers and "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster exchange verbal blows over whether nuclear energy is an essential part of Canada's energy diet. Faster than a speeding expletive! More powerful than a punchline! TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Superheroes: Pryde (2-0) def. Boothby (0-3)

Nuclear Energy: Demers (1-1) def. Foster (0-5)

Curmudgeonly comic Mike Wilmot tries to convince "Funny Mummy" Kate Davis that today's school-aged kids receive too many undeserved ribbons and rewards. Then self-taught debater Bruce Clark sets out to prove to Irwin "The Professor" Barker that higher education is unnecessary and over-rated.^[9] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
University: Barker (6-3-1) def. B. Clark (2-2-1)

Praising Children: Davis (1-1) def. Wilmot (3-2)

Green shift or bull shift? Humourist Debra Kimmett assails environmentally friendly funnyman Billy Mitchell for his support of Stephan Dion's carbon tax. Also on the bill, Filipino-Canadian Ron Josol takes on Korean Canadian Paul Bae over which ethnic group has contributed more to Canada's multicultural mélange.^[10] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Dion's Green Shift: Kimmett (6-5-1) def. Mitchell (0-1)

Koreans vs. Filipinos: Josol (0-0-1) TIED Bae (2-2-1)

Is it OK to make fun of adults who still live at home with their parents? Erica Sigurdson tries to convince "stay at home son" Phil Hanley that he needs to stop being chicken and fly the coop. Also on the bill, Latina funny lady Martha Chaves debates Vancouver comic Charlie Demers on the topic of Che Guevara and whether this South American rebel is worthy of being on so many T-shirts and dorm room walls. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Adult Kids at Home: Hanley (1-0) def. Sigurdson (10-2)

Che Guevara: Demers (2-1) def. Chaves (0-1)

Comedians John Beuhler and Graham Clark take a hilarious look at second hand shopping. And Deborah Kimmett and musical funnyman Todd Butler battle over whether senior citizens should go back to work.^[12] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Thrift Shops: G. Clark (2-0) def. Beuhler (0-2)

Mandatory Retirement: Kimmett (7-5-1) def. Butler (0-1)

It's election time! Quebec comedian Derek Seguin battles with Winnipegger Al Rae about whether Stephen Harper is a better leader than Stephane Dion. Then Tim Steeves and Harry Doupe take a look at majority and minority governments. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Harper vs. Dion: D. Seguin (6-1-1) def. Rae (3-9)

Minority Governments: Doupe (2-0) def. Steeves (2-4)

Comedian Pete Zedlacher is certain that hunting is a great Canadian pastime, so he takes pot shots at gun shy Erica Sigurdson to prove it. Also on the bill, a slightly paranoid Roman Danylo tries to convince to Calgary funny lady Rebecca Northan that society's obsession with eliminating germs is completely justified. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Hunting: Zedlacher (1-0) def. Sigurdson (10-3)

Germs: Northan (0-0) vs. Danylo (1-0) (TIED???)

This episode is all about contests. Comedian Bruce Clark discusses the battle for the White House and tries to convince New York comic Darryl Lenox that the U.S. election might not result in the changes some people are expecting. Next up, Derek Seguin tries to convince Debra DiGiovanni that the competitive world of beauty pageants actually celebrates women. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Obama: Lenox (1-2) def. B. Clark (2-3-1)

Beauty Pageants: D. Seguin (7-1-1) def. DiGiovanni (1-3-1)

Air Farce's Alan Park and funny guy Simon Rakoff go head-to-head in a discussion about human rights commissions. And tune in for a look at the gender divide in comedy. Also: Al Rae of The CBC Winnipeg Comedy Festival battles it out with Erica Sigurdson about whether men are funnier than women. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Women in Comedy: Sigurdson (11-3) def. Rae (3-10)

Human Rights Commission: Park (3-0) def. Rakoff (5-6)

New York comic Darryl Lenox tries to convince Canadian Tim Steeves that the NFL is superior to the Canadian game of three downs. And then, veteran comic Mike MacDonald battles newcomer Nick Beaton on the tasty topic of restaurants - are chain and franchise operations superior to "Mom and Pop" eateries?^[13] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
CFL vs. NFL: Steeves (3-4) def. Lenox (1-3)

Chain Restaurants: MacDonald (1-1) def. Beaton (0-1)

Despite the financial downturn, youngsters across the country are doing their part to improve the economy. They pester their parents to buy all sorts of toys - and who's to blame for this annoying behaviour? Oh, the advertisers of course! Funny gal Jennifer Robertson does her best to sell writer/comedian George Westerholm on the concept that marketing to kids is just plain wrong. Later on this shopping-themed double bill, comic Steve Levine and "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster go toe-to-toe on whether the environmentally unfriendly plastic bag takes the prize for the worst invention of all time.
When the "plastic bags" debate was remade for television, Glen Foster reprised his role but Graham Clark argued the other side instead of Steve Levine.
TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Plastic Bags: Foster (1-5) def. Levine (0-1)

Ads for Kids: J. Robertson (0-0-1) TIED Westerholm (1-1-1)

It's a musical showdown on The Debaters. Comic Kenny Robinson reckons that country music rules the airwaves. But can he convince Sean Cullen that western swing is king? Also on the program, comedians Irwin Barker and Jennifer Grant debate the merits of tipping. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Country Music: S. Cullen (1-1) def. Robinson (1-1-1)

Tipping: Grant (1-0) def. Barker (6-4-1)

To most kids, Christmas is all about Santa. But, is this round spreader of consumerism actually good for the youth of today? Surrogate scrooge Kevin Foxx is out to prove to funny lady Mrs. Gupta (Veena Sood) that the jolly man from the North Pole is a bad role model. Then Vancouver comic Graham Clark wants movie critic Patrick Maliha to admit that when it comes to the cinema experience, home theatre beats movie theatre every time.^[14] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Santa Claus: Sood (4-0) def. Foxx (0-1)

Home Theatres: G. Clark (3-0) def. Maliha (0-1)

Is it time to get rid of the penny? Carrie Gaetz says yes but Mark Forward says no. Also, should age difference be a factor in romantic relationships? Comic Diana Frances tries to prove to "cougar" advocate Debra DiGiovanni that relationships between older women and younger men are doomed. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
The Penny: Forward (2-0) def. Gaetz (2-6)

May–December: DiGiovanni (2-3-1) def. Frances (2-2)

Have emails made snail mail redundant? Nostalgic funnyman Derek Edwards tries to convince upstart Pat Thornton that old-fashioned letter writing beats emails hands down. Then musical duo The Doo Wops make a melodic argument to try to prove to funny gal Laurie Elliott that exes can still be friends.
- This marks the first debate where one of the sides is represented by more than one debater - in this case, Toronto musical comedy duo The Doo-Wops. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Email vs. Mail: Edwards (2-0) def. Thornton (0-1)

Friends with Your Ex: Elliott (3-1) def. The Doo Wops (0-2)

Are baby boomers to blame for the state of the economy and the environment? Comedians Bob Robertson and Linda Cullen tackle these age-old issues. Then, Aaron Berg and Charlie Demers take a hilarious look at fitness. Tune in as they flex their comedy muscles in a discussion about bodybuilding. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Bodybuilding: Demers (2-1) def. Berg (0-1)

Baby Boomers: B. Robertson (1-0) def. L. Cullen (0-1)

The Debaters celebrates Canadian multiculturalism. Comedians Shaun Majumder and Nile Seguin take a hilarious look at the cultures that come together in our country. Then comics Laura Landauer (as Celine Dion) and Trevor Boris discuss Céline Dion and her contributions to Canada.^[15] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Mixed Race Kids: Majumder (1-0) def. N. Seguin (0-1)

Celine Dion: Landauer (0-0-1) TIED Boris (2-1-2)

Many countries are in the midst of an economic meltdown. But does the downturn have an upside? Montreal comedian Scott Faulconbridge sure thinks so. This week on The Debaters, he tries to convince comic Harry Doupe that the recession isn't too depressin'. Also on the program, a look at whether parents should be required to get a licence to have children. Comedian Glen Foster tries to convince "funny mommy" Kate Davis that parents should be no exception, since people require licences to own a dog, drive a car and catch a trout. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Economic Downturn: Faulconbridge (1-1) def. Doupe (2-1)

Parenting: Foster (2-5) def. Davis (1-2)

Royal Canadian Air Farce's Alan Park does battle with Ottawa funnyman Don Kelly on the topic of the Governors General -- whether these representatives of the monarch do our nation proud or just royally screw things up. Next up, Montreal comic David Pryde battles Latin American-born Martha Chaves on the topic of vacations to developing nations and whether these tequila-soaked, sun-seeking expeditions do more harm than good. Yes, this week The Debaters has the topical and the tropical, too. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Governor General: Kelly (4-0) def. Park (3-1)

Tourism: Pryde (3-0) def. Chaves (0-2)

Comic Andrew Grose tries to convince funnyman Harry Doupe that blogs like his are worth the read. Then Vancouver comedians Darcy Michael and Morgan Brayton take on the topic of gays in the media and whether the portrayal of homosexuals in mainstream film and TV has furthered the purple cause. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Blogging: Doupe (3-1) def. Grose (2-1)

Gays in the Media: Michael (0-0-1) TIED Brayton (0-0-1)

It's "snobby topics" only on this episode of The Debaters. First, should Canadians be going for Baroque? CBC Radio 2 host and award winning humourist Bill Richardson does battle with The Frantics' Dan Redican over Bach, Beethoven and Berlioz and whether Canadians need more classical music in their lives. Then "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster goes toe to toe with Toronto funny lady Jo-Anna Downey on the topic of private schools and whether they do the public any good at all.^[16] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Classical Music: Richardson (0-0-1) TIED Redican (0-3-1)

Public School: Foster (3-5) def. Downey (0-1)

Canada has more hockey fans than you can shake a stick at. But many Canadians also love lacrosse. So, which sport best represents Canada? Ottawa comics Rick Currie and Mike Beatty face off on the issue. Also, how hard is it to find a good man these days? Comedians Jenn Grant and Nile Seguin have varying opinions on that topic. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Hockey vs. Lacrosse: Beatty (1-0) def. Currie (1-3)

Good Men: N. Seguin (1-1) def. Jenn Grant (1-1)

The Debaters is in Ottawa to find out whether the goose and beaver are as powerful as the bald eagle and Uncle Sam. American ex-pat DeAnne Smith tries to prove to comic Pete Zedlacher that Canada's symbols beat America's by a country kilometre. Plus, comedian Dan Redican is on a mission to convince freedom of speech advocate Darren Frost that our society could use a little more censorship. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
U.S. vs. Canadian Symbols: D. Smith (1-0) def. Zedlacher (1-1)

Censorship: Frost (1-0) def. Redican (0-4-1)

Canada has two founding European cultures, but does that make us stronger? Montrealer Derek Seguin is on a quest to convince Winnipeg's Al Rae that the historic struggles between French and English have made us 'plus forte.' Next up, Craig Lauzon (Air Farce) dodges the paparazzi long enough to try to prove to Teresa Pavlinek (The Jane Show) that celebrities deserve to be left alone. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Britain vs. France: D. Seguin (8-1-1) def. Rae (3-11)

Paparazzi: Pavlinek (2-0) def. Lauzon (0-1)

The flood waters in Manitoba are finally subsiding, and to raise spirits The Debaters is at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival taking the laughs to an all time high. First up, local funny man Al Rae tries to convince New York headliner Marc Maron that the loss of the traditional newspaper is not bad news. Next up on our double bill of laughs and logic, perky self-improvement addict Allyson Smith is out to prove to comic Dan Licoppe that self help books truly do help the self. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Newspapers: Maron (3-0) def. Rae (3-12)

Self Help: A. Smith (2-0) def. Licoppe (0-4)

Should Canadians spend their way out of these troubled economic times? Alberta funny man Andrew Grose tries to convince penny-pinching Maritimer Nathan Macintosh that it isn't nifty being thrifty. Up next, comedian and nature lover Jen Grant tries to prove to supercilious cynic John Beuhler that Canadians should do everything they can to save endangered species. As usual, it's survival of the funniest as the debaters fight to the finish in a battle of laughs and logic. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Thriftiness and the Economy: Macintosh (1-0) def. Grose (2-2)

Extinction: Beuhler (1-2) def. Grant (1-2)

Does a short man have any business dating a tall woman? Karen O’Keefe tries to prove to "vertically challenged" comedian Scott Faulconbridge that tall women should always ‘overlook’ short men. Then, Caribbean Canadian Gilson Lubin and South Asian Canadian Ali Rizvi go toe to toe on the topic of multiculturalism and whether visible minorities becoming the majority in Canada is going to be a good thing. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Tall Women/Short Men: Faulconbridge (2-1) def. O'Keefe (0-1)

Visible Minorities: Rizvi (1-0) def. Lubin (0-1)

Road hog Glen Foster (That Canadian Guy) puts the polemic pedal to the metal to prove to bike booster Peter Wildman (The Frantics) that bicycles are a menace and should be banned from the road. Next up, young social networker Sabrina Jalees tries to convince grouchy grandpa Jebb Fink that Facebook is good for friendship. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Bicycles: Foster (4-5) TIED Wildman (0-1)

Facebook: Fink (1-1) def. Jalees (0-3-1)

Who ages better - men or women? Comedian Teresa Pavlinek tackles that age-old question, trying to convince funnyman John Wing that when it comes to wrinkles, sags and senility, females fare better than males. Next up, comics Dean Jenkinson and Tim Nutt go console to console in a debate over playing video games. Does this popular pastime help teach important life skills? TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Gender & Aging: Pavlinek (3-0) def. Wing (2-2-1)

Video Games: Jenkinson (3-0) def. Nutt (1-1)

How useful are Canadian content regulations for film and TV? The Debaters explores that question on Saturday's show. Tune in as comedian Mark Critch tries to convince Derek Seguin that subsidies and quotas don't necessarily do the trick. And later, veteran performers John Wing and Cory Kahaney take a hilarious look at family life. Get ready to laugh as they discuss whether kids enhance marriages- or ruin them. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Kids & Marriage: Kahaney (1-0) def. Wing (2-3-1)

Canadian Content: Critch (0-0-1) TIED D. Seguin (8-1-2)

Is Monotheism or Polytheism the way to go? Ron Sparks and Sean Cullen debate. Then: Are we spoiling our children too much today? Remember the days when kids enjoyed the simple things in life: playing in the sandbox, bike riding, tobogganing? Nowadays, it seems like parents spend a lot more money to keep their children entertained. But just how spoiled are today's kids? Funny father George Westerholm and doting mommy Maryellen Hooper tackle the issue.^[17]
The "One God or Many?" debate won the 2010 Canadian Comedy Award as that year's Best Radio Clip. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Spoiled Children: Westerholm (2-1-1) def. Hooper (0-1)

Polytheism: Sparks (1-0-1) def. S. Cullen (1-2)

Is it OK to solve problems with your fists? How should young offenders be treated? This week, The Debaters presents a hilarious look at problem solving. Comedians Rob Pue and Bruce Clark explore various ways people tackle disputes. And later, comics Mike Bullard and Irwin Barker discuss the best ways to put an end to crime. Who has the right mix of fact and funny to be named debater extraordinaire? TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Fist Fighting: Pue (1-0) def. B. Clark (2-4-1)

Youth Crime: Barker (7-4-1) def. Bullard (0-1)

Are Newfoundlanders the sexiest people? Are car salesmen the worst people? Some surveys indicate that Newfoundland and Labrador is the most sexually active province. This week, The Debaters travels to St. John's to find out why. Local celeb Cathy Jones and fellow "townie" Jonny Harris take a hilarious look at the issue. Later, comics Carrie Gaetz and Chuck Byrn shift gears and get plenty of comedy mileage when they explore the plight of the poor car salesperson.^[18] TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Sex in Newfoundland: Harris (2-0-1) def. C. Jones (0-2)

Used Car Sales: Byrne (1-0) def. Gaetz (2-7)

On the fall premiere of The Debaters, find out whether H1N1 really worth all the hysteria. Hear U.S. funnyman Alonzo Bodden try to prove to Montreal immunology major Scott Faulconbridge that swine flu is nothing but hog wash. Next on this highly contagious mix of fact and funny, it's another round of Americans versus Canadians. Quebec-born comedy star Debra DiGiovanni tries to convince incredulous New Yorker Judy Gold that true success only comes from making it big in the U.S.A. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Pandemics: Bodden (0-0-1) TIED Faulconbridge (2-1-1)

Making it in the U.S.: Gold (1-0) def. DiGiovanni (2-4-1)

The Barbie doll is now 50 years old - but has this curvaceous toy ever been good for girls? Debra DiGiovanni dresses up her argument to convince comedian Elvira Kurt that Barbie, though made of plastic, is fantastic. Next, hear from the well-aged musical comedy team, The Williamson Playboys. They're out to prove to cheesy young rapper White Cheddah that today's youth should show a little more respect. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Barbie: Kurt (5-1-2) def. DiGiovanni (2-5-1)

Respect: The Williamson Playboys (1-0) def. Easton (0-1)

The Debaters wants to know if it's time to ban the "N" word. The show is in Newfoundland this week to join local comics Shaun Majumder and Snook. Tune in as they go toe to toe to decide whether the term "Newfie" is an amiable appellation or malignant moniker. Next, learn how to speak pirate as stand-up comics John Ki and Darren Frost rattle sabers and cross swords. Hear them duel over whether the modern day variety should to be wiped off the map. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
"Newfies": Majumder (2-0) def. Snook (0-1)

Pirates: Ki (1-0) def. Frost (1-1)

In this the day of the bro-mantic comedy and the metrosexual male, is it too outrageous to suggest that all men are a little gay? Straight but curious Charlie Demers is out to prove to hetero He-man Mike Wilmot that there's no such thing as a 100% heterosexual man. Next, an acerbic Al Rae tries to teach mischief-makers Mike Patterson and Tim Rabnett that class clowns are zeros not heroes. TAPING DATE: TBC
TAPING LOCATION: TBC
RESULTS:
Men's Sexuality: Demers (3-1) def. Wilmot (3-3)

Class Clowns: Rae (4-12) def. Class Clowns (0-1) (Rabnett 0-1, Paterson 0-2)

The Debaters are in St. John's as local comics John Sheehan and Trent McClellan go toe-to-toe and gum boot to gum boot over the province of Alberta. They’ll hash out whether that land of elk and money has been good for Newfoundland. Then, it's a double-double showdown between laid-back B.C. raconteur Damonde Tshritter and Toronto comedienne Rebecca Kohler. He’ll try to convince her that when it comes to Canadian coffee shops, Starbucks smashes Tim Horton's to Timbits.

This week on The Debaters, they're talking comedy as comic heavyweights Ed Byrne and Andy Kindler go toe to toe on the topic of heckling, to determine whether the heckler's high jinx hinders hilarity. In part two of the show, Montreal's David Pryde tries to prove to New England funnyman Bob Marley - no relation - that digital pirates should be pilloried for their pilfering.

The Debaters is in St. Albert for an all-Canadian showdown. Alberta booster Peter Brown does battle with Toronto tar sands terminator Alan Park. He’ll try to prove that as long as there are pick-ups, ponies and petroleum it ain't over for Alberta. Then, from way out West, aboriginal comic Dawn Dumont tries to convince middle-aged white guy, Andrew Grose that advanced wisdom does not necessarily come with advanced age.

Asian comedian Paul Bae tries to prove to Edmonton's Neil Grahn that he is both out of tune and out of touch, if he thinks that karaoke hits any right notes. Part two of the show is all about air travel, as "plane" speaking funny man Al Rae tries to convince comic Graham Clark that with Westjet flying high, it wouldn't hurt Canadians if we grounded Air Canada for good.

It's a surname showdown as patriarchal pontificator Sean Lecomber tries to coerce Vancouver funny lady Erica Sigurdson into admitting that when it comes to mom, dad and the kids, there should only be one last name - the sir's! Then Atomic Improv's Mark Meer and Donovan Wurkun debate the merits of intelligent machines and whether society should fear their rise.

This week we are in T.O. where Caribbean-Canadian comic Jean Paul is out to prove to Ugandan-born funnyman Arthur Simeon that Toronto's new "Africentric Curriculum School" helps black kids succeed. Also on our double bill of facts and funny, feminine film fan Laurie Elliott tries to convince nay-sayer Nile Seguin that he should put away his pride and prejudice and admit that guys can learn a lot from "Chick Flicks."

Bard basher Teresa Pavlinek tries to prove to classically trained funny man Raoul Bhaneja that in this day and age Shakespeare is "Much Ado About Nothing." Then sports fans Harry Doupe and Tim Steeves do battle over professional pugilism to decide whether Mixed Martial Arts like the UFC is superior to the sweet science of boxing.

Pete Zedlacher is revved up and ready to blast comic Irwin Barker with a blizzard of reasons why the growth of snow-mobiling is good for Canada. Then, the show furiously turns to a showdown over anger as diminutive debater Darren Frost tries to convince funny lady Rebecca Kohler that it's never over-the-top to blow one's top.

Is recycling worthwhile? Glen "That Canadian Guy" Foster attempts to prove to comedian Deborah Kimmet that as a green strategy, recycling is garbage. Then, gateau-lover Sean Cullen tries to convince filling-fan Dave Hemstad that anyway you slice it, cake whips pie.^[20] LOCATION: TBC WINNERS:

Dave Hemstad def. Sean Cullen ("For reasons of vandalism.")

John Wing uses his guile and experience to convince comedienne Teresa Pavlinek that an older man romancing a younger woman is both wholesome and natural. Next up, dialectic doomsayer J.P. Mass demonstrates to funnyman Barry Kennedy that the Mayan calendar is absolutely correct and the human race is on the eve of annihilation.

Kristeen von Hagen uses her comedy muscles to prove to comic Debra DiGiovanni that gym class is the best class. Then philosophically funny John Ki tries to convince forward- and backward-looking comedian Mark Forward that a time machine would be a terrible invention.

Should people stranded in the wilderness have to pay for their own rescue? Vancouver comic Graham Clark tries to bury outdoorsy funny man Paul Bae in a flurry of facts as he argues that when it comes to backcountry rescue, if you're out of bounds, you're out of pocket. Also, Bjorn-again Abba fan Morgan Brayton wants comedian Gary Jones to meet his Waterloo as she argues that Abba not Ikea is Sweden's greatest export.

The Games are finally upon us but will the Olympics bring Vancouver happiness or just heart break? Peter Kelamis owns the podium as he sets out to achieve his personal comedic best by convincing comic Charlie Demers that the 2010 Games are great for Vancouver. Next, the ridiculously upbeat comedy duo "It's Good to Know People" (Jason Bryden and David Milchard) try to convince morose funny man Marc Maron to open his heart, turn his frown upside down and accept the optimistic adage -- it pays to think positively!

Would closer ties between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico be good for our nation? This week North American Union booster Ali Rizvi tries to convince an incredulous Alan Park that joining our three nations would be "muy bien." In the second half of the double bill of verbal fisticuffs, Jewish comedian Simon Rakoff tries to prove to Catholic-raised funnyman Derek Seguin that guilt trips are useful and nothing to be ashamed of.

The Debaters has Olympics fever! This episode comes from Vancouver, home of the 2010 Winter Games, with a double bill of Olympic-themed comedy match-ups. First out of the gate, American funny man Alonzo Bodden tries to out-maneuver comic Sean Cullen in his attempt to prove that the Summer Games are superior to the Winter Games. Next up, First Nations comedian Don Kelly "owns the podium," as the tries to prove to overly-apologetic white guy Charlie Demers that the Olympics have been great for Canada's aboriginals. You won't want to miss a second of the action as these world-class comedians go for the glory, go for the gold and most importantly go for the gags.

The Debaters talk texting as tech savvy comedian Ivan Decker tries to convince funny lady Erica Sigurdson that texting spells an advance in communication. Next topic up is full body scanners as Vancouver comic Graham Clark gives CBC Radio personality Bill Richardson a dressing down when Bill asserts that airport screening has not gone far enough.

Is the cruise ship a good way to holiday? Enthusiastic cruiser Darcy Michael tries to convince funny lady Diana Frances that a holiday on the high seas will really float her boat. Next up, Japanese food fan Tetsuro Shigematsu serves up the funny as he tries to persuade squeamish eater Ian Boothby that even though it's cold -- sushi is hot!

Spring has sprung and with it the promise of birdies and eagles. Duffer Derek Edwards takes a whack at convincing scratch golfer Dave Hemstad that, any way you slice it, golf is a ridiculous pastime. Next up Arthur Simeon wants to royally trounce Elvira Kurt as he tries to convince an Oakville, Ontario audience that Queen Elizabeth should give up the throne and make Charles our king.

Taped in Oakville, Ontario.

Who poses the greatest parenting challenge for fathers: teenage sons or teenage daughters? This week on The Debaters, perplexed papa Humble Howard Glassman is out to prove to delirious dad Patrick McKenna that teenaged girls deliver more dilemmas. In the second half of the show, it's all about the big three automakers, as hilarious Harry Doupe tries to convince Glen "That Canadian Guy" Foster (and his Oakville neighbours) that Canada has no biz being in the auto biz.

The debaters talk garage and yard sales as comic Carrie Gaetz kicks Graham Chittenden's argument to the curb as she tries to prove that these week-end retail rituals are good for the community. Next up, funny man Evan Carter needles Deborah Kimmett mercilessly in an effort to convince her that medical check-ups are scarier for men.

Recorded in Winnipeg. Canada's other favourite past-time is being hacked on today. Hurry hard, to hear John Wing sweep away Derek Seguin's argument that curling should not really be considered a sport. Following that, Kids in the Hall star Kevin McDonald tries to convince Elvira Kurt that the discovery of intelligent life beyond the heavens would be stellar.
Taped in Winnipeg.

WINNERS: John Wing, *TBC*.

Spud lover Mark Little tries to convince island native Patrick Ledwell that the potato is a better symbol for P.E.I. than Anne of Green Gables. Next up on our double bill of facts and funny, hopeless romantic Phil Hanley is out to prove to relationship realist Erica Sigurdson that long distance love affairs have legs.

Is British Cuisine unfairly maligned? U.K. comic and food lover John Moloney serves up the laughs and logic as he tries to convince Rebecca Kohler that dishes like "Bubble and Squeak" and "Spotted Dick" are more delicious than their names might indicate. Next up Winnipeg funnyman Bruce Clark is out to prove to Yippie co-founder and 60's icon, Paul Krassner, that the hippies were nothing but disheveled, doped-up degenerates.

This week we take on the cottage as funnyman Gilson Lubin does his comedic best to convince fevered cabin convert Derek Edwards that life in the woods (or at the lake) is for the birds. Up next, cynical single Karen O’Keefe wants married man Scott Faulconbridge and the rest of society to finally admit that single people are discriminated against in this country.

Italian North Americans Franco Taddeo and Tammy Pescatelli go toe-to-toe on the topic of Italians in film, and whether there are way too many Guidos, goombahs and Goodfellas. In part two of the show, comic Al Rae tries to convince tech fan Ali Rizvi-Badshah that there's such a thing as too much information.

First up, former teacher Dylan Mandlsohn has a laugh-filled lesson plan to teach comedian Ryan Belleville that kids should study science not the arts. Next up, feline fanatic Debra DiGiovanni tries to convince dog devotee Nikki Payne that when it comes to pets, cats rule while dogs just drool.

This week we take on tattoos, as the totally-tattooed Aaron Berg tries to prove to ink-inclined comic Charlie Demers that body art is leaving a black mark on our society. Up next, comedian Ron Vaudry tries to dictate the rules of engagement and prove to autocratic critic Don Kelly that when it comes to political systems, a dictatorship is a reasonable alternative.

The Debaters celebrate dads this week as new father David Pryde tries to convince Star Wars fan and Dark Lord devotee Greg Morton that even though he did try to get his son to join the family business, Darth Vader remains the worst dad of all time. Next up, domestic daddy Tim Nutt doffs his apron and throws down an oven mitt as he tries to prove to patriarchy propagator David Hemstad that "stay at home dad" is a job title any man can be proud of.

Al Rae tries to convince the lovely Maureen Langan that a woman's looks have nothing to do with her success. To which Maureen says, ya right.... Then Pardis Parker and Arthur Simeon debate whether it's a good idea for immigrants to settle in Canada's more rural communities.

Should Canada be proud of its membership in the G8? This week, The Debaters are in Muskoka, as Francophone flag-waver Derek Seguin tries to prove to antagonistic Alan Park that the G8 is GRRRR-8. In part two of the show, funnyman Albert Howell tries to convince comedic conspiracist Matt Billon that asserting the '69 moon landing was faked is pure lunacy. Yes, they're discussing global issues this week on The Debaters.^[22]

Are Big Oil Companies really so bad? This week, UK resident and anti-petro pontificator Pete Johansson tries to convince slick oil defender Dave Hemstad that companies like BP are truly evil. In the second half, two European comics - Ireland's Andrew Maxwell and Germany's Michael Mittermeier go toe to toe on the topic of Hollywood and whether Tinseltown has been a bad influence on the EU.

Recorded July 17, 2010 at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal.

Is the best school house your own house? Winnipeg funnyman Al Rae deflects the anti-home school attacks of former teacher Allyson Smith as he attempts to prove that, when it comes to education, there's no place like home. Next up two small town Ontario adversaries, Jeff McEnery and Tyler Morrison, go toe to toe over animal rights activists and whether their publicity seeking antics should be ignored.

Graham Clark and Ron Sparks duke it out over whether movies and TV are better in 3D. Then Kristeen von Hagen and Pete Zedlacher butt heads over zombies and vampires. (Recorded July 17, 2010 at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal. Both re-recorded for TV April 1, 2011 at CBC Studio 40 Vancouver.)

The games begin as funny lady Rebecca Kohler spells it out for comedian Simon Rakoff in her attempt to prove that Scrabble is a scream but Monopoly will just leave you "bored." Next up, two titanic tipplers - Mike Wilmot and Glenn Wool - do battle on the topic of the drinking age and whether society would be better off giving teens the right to legally imbibe at a younger age.

Moustache trasher DeAnne Smith tries to convince 'stache supporter Mark Little that the furry facial ornament will never grow on her. Then: is stand-up dead? Comedic heavyweights Andy Kindler and Harland Williams drop the gloves and exchange punch-lines. (Recorded July 17, 2010 at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal.)

The Debaters comes to you from the True North – Whitehorse. But is Whitehorse really the true north? Comedic character, Jim from Dawson, will try to convince funny man Anthony Trombetta that Dawson City trumps Whitehorse for True North-ness. And next up on our double bill of laughs and logic – Gold. Its value is at an all time high, but will buying it pan out? Charlie Demers and Graham Clark try to strike it rich in this shiny debate.

Barry Kennedy tries to convince city boy Graham Clark that survival skills are necessary skills. Next up, the diary – Jane Stanton says it's the superhighway to creative self awareness while Darcy Michael argues it's the dusty road to self indulgent drivel.

The Debaters adds up to great fun as Ivan Decker tries to convince comedienne Erica Sigurdson that math is a magical pursuit. Then The Debaters takes a stab at fanaticism: funnyman Dave Shumka says it's perfectly fine to be an inflexible fan. But jokester Simon King likes to highlight the ridiculous when it comes to the overzealous.

Sean Cullen gives it to Scott Thompson on the subject of musicals... and anything else he can think of... Then Kenny Robinson gets on his soap box to convince Dana Alexander that Obama has had more impact than Oprah.

Recorded November 3, 2010 at Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.

There's a battle of the sexes brewing between Nikki Payne and Simon Rakoff as Simon asserts that women are irrational and Nikki counters. Next up, greetings! Specifically the handshake. Has it lost its purpose? What with fist-pumps, high fives and secret society finger wags, where does the old handshake stack up? Ron Josol and Darrin Rose discuss.

Recorded November 3, 2010 at Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.

Stand up comics Rob Pue and real life roommate Sam Easton, tackle the touchy subject of shared space - are roommates best mates? Then, is civil disobedience an essential part of democracy? Alan Park and Dave Hemstad square off and the result is a riot.

Recorded November 3, 2010 at Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.

Which is better, showers or baths? Stand up bather, Dave Hemstad tries to shower sit down soaker Debra DiGiovanni with a torrent of facts and funny. Next up it's movies versus books as funny man Al Rae does his best to spell it out for movie maven John Beuhler, who'd rather see it than read it.

Mike Wilmot tries to snuff out Rebecca Kohler's arguments and prove to her that smokers like him are unfairly maligned. Then it's a debate about credit cards: Is the world a better place because of them? Sean Masterson takes on Paul Bae and they both try to buy your votes with their jokes.

First up, should motorists be taxed to pay for public transit? Jeffery Yu and "That Canadian Guy" Glen Foster drive home their points. Then, Walt Disney - is his legacy all that and a bag of chips? Sean Cullen loves the mouse named Mickey whereas Elvira Kurt spells it M-O-U-S-Evil.

Are Drug Companies Bad for Us? Alan Park argues that they're bad medicine while comedian and pharmacy owner Paul Bae says drug companies are great, when used as directed. Next up it's a debate about predators. Which one would you rather be attacked by - a bear or a shark? Mark Little takes it to Peter Kelamis and "pandas" to the audience as he asserts that it would be worse to be attacked by a bear.

The Golden Years - are they really your best years? Comedy veteran John Wing tries to convince youngster Nathan Macintosh that he'd better live it up while he's young - life does not start after 50. Next up on our double bill of laughs and logic - Batman or Spiderman, who's the superior super hero? Two characters from Little Mosque on the Prairie – The Reverend William Throne and the annoying yet lovable Baber Siddiqui - debate this important question.

GPS: is this electronic gadget that much better than a good old paper map? Patrick McKenna tries to convince Dave Hemstad that GPS should just get lost. Next, the Pride Parade. Is it time for this annual display to float away? Lesbian stand-up Elvira Kurt says it's tacky, whereas queer comic Trevor Boris says we need Pride Parades with all their glitz and glitter.

Secrets. Should governments be allowed to keep them? Stand up comic Dylan Rhymer says "no way Jose," whereas comic David Pryde thinks we just can't handle the truth. Then: should common law partners just put a ring on it? Derek Seguin tries to convince Erica Sigurdson that it's high time she and her long term fiancé tie the knot.

Taped at the Capitol Theatre in N.B.

Big Daddy Tazz tries to cash in on his name and convince funny man Scott Faulconbridge that bringing your kid to work is an excellent idea. Next up, Cash Cab's Adam Growe respectfully suggests that good manners should be much higher on Rebecca Kohler's list of things to care about.

Taped at the Capitol Theatre in N.B.

Should city folks be able to keep chickens in their back yards? Urbanite Simon Rakoff takes a crack at Trevor Boris's desire to allow chicks in the city. Next up, hitchhiking. Should we bring it back? Rob Pue thumbs his nose at the idea whereas funny man Jon Steinberg picks up a few laughs in support of hitchhiking.

Paul Myrehaug and Pete Zedlacher debate whether the NHL should stop playing anthems before games - after Steve Patterson gets the entire audience to sing the new Debaters show anthem. To stand on guard or not to stand on guard. And April is national poetry month so why not ask the question, is poetry relevant? Published poet and funny man John Wing waxes poetic while practical Patrick Ledwell points out the pitfalls of a poetic life.
Recorded at the Hubcap Comedy Festival in Moncton.

Winners: Pete Zedlacher, ???.

Francophone funnyman Derek Seguin insists that the language of love is English whereas Anglo comic Charlie Demers says non, le Francais est superior! Next the Debaters celebrates the birthday of a twentieth century icon. Hugh Hefner, creator of Playboy magazine, turns 84 today (April 9, 2011). So The Debaters asks the question, is his legacy a positive one? Funny lady Deborah Kimmett argues that his legacy is a big bust whereas comedian Morgan Brayton asserts that he's a man for the ages.

Is bald really beautiful? Two follically challenged funny men, Dave Hemstad and Scott Faulconbridge, go head to head on this perennial debate. And your host Steve Patterson keeps score, sort of. Also on the show: have scientologists been picked on too much? Paul Bae says we should give them a break while Erica Sigurdson thinks scientology is ripe for the picking on.

Ron Sparks and Alan Park debate whether fast food is good food. (Recorded as part of the Debaters TV tapings in Vancouver.)

Then, we've all heard the saying "behind every great man there's a great woman." The Debaters turns that old adage on its head and asserts: "behind every great woman is an even greater man." Arlene Dickinson of CBC TV's Dragon's Den takes issue with the idea, while Debaters veteran John Wing tells her she shouldn't worry her pretty little head about it. (Recorded April 1, 2011 at CBC Studio 40 in Vancouver.)

Scott Thompson and Elvira Kurt put the gloves on to argue whether weddings are wonderful or a waste. Then Don Kelly and Graham Clark duke it out over whether fur is a sustainable resource.

We all know about the role social networks played in recent democratic uprisings, but do they do more harm than good? Elvira Kurt and Charlie Demers take this one on. Then Sean Cullen and David Pryde argue whether it's a good idea to bring back extinct animals.

Phil Hanley and Laurie Elliott debate whether it's acceptable to break up over the phone or online. And then Don Kelly and Rick Green debate whether America or Rome is the greatest Empire.

Nikki Payne and Dave Hemstad argue about revenge. Then Pete Zedlacher and Glen Foster duke it out over whether Old Rockers should just call it quits.

Roman Danylo and Ellie Harvie debate the merits of lowering one's standards in order to be happy. Then Charlie Demers and Jeffery Yu argue about the value of The Rise of China.

Are there too many TV channels to choose from? Youngster Nathan MacIntosh says the more the merrier, but seasoned comedy veteran Derek Edwards thinks the olden days were golden days. Then it's tea versus coffee - which is the superior beverage? Sean Cullen and Pete Johannson don't hesitate to espresso themselves.

Is Cirque du Soleil art or crap? Is do-it-yourself preferable to hiring a pro? Andrew Younghusband and David Pryde take on do-it-yourself while Derek Seguin and Rebecca Kohler tackle Cirque du Soleil.

Is Walmart a great evil or just a great store? Walmart is the biggest employer in the whole world, but does that mean they're good for business? Walmart champion Darcy Michael is bargaining on besting his anti-corporate opponent Alan Park. Then it's Beauty or Brains? Which gets your farther in this world? Two intelli-gents, Darren Frost and Jon Steinberg hand-some facts and funny around.

Is fidelity un-natural? Pete Johansson and Charlie Demers wrestle with fidelity in the first debate. Then: They call soccer The Beautiful Game but is it really so lovely? Funny man Harry Doupe makes it his goal to convince Tim Steeves that soccer runs circles around every other sport.

Taped at the Newfoundland Comedy Festival. Local favourite John Sheehan takes on Nathan MacIntosh in a debate about raising the driving age to 21. Then Bill MacIntosh and Pete "Snook" Soucy debate the merits of Newfoundland Cuisine. (Recorded at the Newfoundland Comedy Festival.)

Have digital cameras killed the charm of photographs? Trent McClellan says we are way too snap happy? Whereas photo fiend, Erica Sigurdson ‘shutters" at the thought of a world without photos of absolutely everything. Also on the show today, Derek Seguin and Sean Cullen engage in an esoteric argument over which one of them is the master of debating.

It's Canada versus Australia - which is the superior Commonwealth nation? Aussie Tom Gleeson and Canuck Joey Elias make the case for each other's country. Then, Maria Bamford and Debra DiGiovanni square off to discuss whether it helps to be a little emotionally unstable if you're pursuing a career in Hollywood.

Andy Kindler and Marc Maron debate whether there's too much news out there. Then - is haggling acceptable? Montrealer Scott Faulconbridge says no, but New Yorker Hannibal Burress haggles with him. (Recorded at Just for Laughs in Montreal.)

Winners: Marc Maron, Hannibal Burress.

Are bachelor parties acceptable behaviour? Tammy Pescatelli and Darrin Rose fling jokes around on the topic. Then David Pryde and Pat Thornton debate whether Comic Book Movies are the best movies.

Given the recent near collapse of the global economy, The Debaters have decided to ask the question, is it time to take another look at Karl Marx? Charlie Demers tries to socialize Al Rae on the topic, while host Steve Patterson ensures there's "comrade-erie". Then Graham Clark and Erica Sigurdson debate whether video stores be missed?

Taped Oct. 4, 2011 at the Kelowna Community Theatre in Kelowna, British Columbia.

From the sunny shores of Lake Okanagan The Debaters pits mythical creature against mythical creature. Local comic Tim Nutt asserts that the serpent-like Ogopogo is superior whereas interloper Roman Danylo roars the praises of Sasquatch. Also, are all men projects? Rebecca Kohler and Ivan Decker debate.

Taped Oct. 4, 2011 at the Kelowna Community Theatre in Kelowna, British Columbia.

The Debaters celebrates 75 years of CBC by debating about its icons. First Rebecca Kohler and Dave Hemstad duke it out in the News versus Sports Debate. Then Charlie Demers and Sean Cullen argue over who's the better CBC icon, David Suzuki or Don Cherry.

Recorded April 1, 2011 at CBC Studio 40 in Vancouver.

Newfoundland comedians Jonny Harris and Mark Critch debate the seal hunt, with Steve Patterson keeping them both on an even keel. Then, is playing hard to get a good idea? Derek Seguin tries to convince Nikki Payne that it is.

What's better, beer or wine? Comedian Charlie Demers says wine all the way. But "here for the beer" Paul Myrehaug begs to differ. Also on the show, Darcy Michael and Jeffery Yu debate whether kids should be on allowed on the Internet.

Taped Oct. 4, 2011 at the Kelowna Community Theatre in Kelowna, British Columbia.

It's a special Christmas episode of The Debaters, recorded live in North Vancouver. The show features two seasonal debates: Darcy Michael and Damonde Tschritter debate real versus fake Christmas trees. And Sean Cullen debates whether there's just too much Christmas music with Newfoundland's Jonny Harris.

Recorded live at Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto, it's Dylan Mandlsohn versus Nikki Payne in a real life debate about fairytales. Then, Tim Steeves and Derek Seguin debate whether it's time to end the Toronto bashing in Canada.

Sean Cullen and Dave Hemstad debate what's a better breakfast, waffles or pancakes? Then Dave Merheje and Simon Rakoff mix fact and funny to debate the good and the bad of lotteries.

Paul F. Tompkins and Dave Shumka debate the old adage "Clothes Make the Man." Then - are older men better men? Sam Easton and Lori Gibbs debate this age old question.

Handwriting is debated by Debra DiGiovanni and Trevor Boris. Then: Elvira Kurt and Ryan Belleville debate "only childs."

Are robots more fearsome than apes? Sean Cullen says yes but Dan Redican disagrees. Then Laurie Elliott and Terry McGurrin debate restaurant servers.

The War of 1812 - was it the most important war ever fought on North American soil? Don Kelly says yes, Darryl Lenox says no way. Then Darcy Michael and Debra DiGiovanni debate about gay best friends.

Charlie Demers debates Paul Bae on home ownership: is it better to rent or to buy? Then, is menopause harder on men or women? Comedians John Wing and Deb Kimmet take on this debate.

The Order of Canada is debated by Al Rae and Patrick Ledwell. Then: Are the Muppets good role models? Comedians David Pryde and Jon Steinberg debate the fuzzy friends of Fozzie.

From the Nation's Capital comedians Glen Foster and Charlie Demers debate whether taxes are a joy and a privilege to pay, or just taxing? Also on the show it's Mike Wilmot versus Kate Davis in a debate about relationships. Is mystery in a relationship a good thing?

Should we all act our age? Then, did guys in the "Mad Men" era have it made?

Should we continue to fund libraries? Are they still relevant? Ron Sparks and Alan Park debate. Then: Are energy drinks awesome or unhealthy? Jon Steinberg says yes but Rebecca Kohler disagrees.

Should Alberta have only one NHL team? Derek Seguin and Paul Myrehaug take on this touch topic in front of a Calgary audience. Then: The All Inclusive Vacation. Is it the best way to unwind? Erica Sigurdson takes on Trent McClellan.

Winners: Paul Myrehaug, ???.

Should the rodeo be banned? That's the question put to comedians Graham Clark and Neil Grahn in front of a Calgary audience. Also on the show: Lori Gibbs and Brian Stollery argue whether parents should just leave their kids at home already.

Is it okay to imitate someone's accent? Veteran debater Charlie Demers takes on rookie accent-lover Howie Miller. Also on the show, Alberta comics Ryan Belleville and Sean Lecomber argue whether the province's greatest export is oil or artists.

Are there too many museums nowadays? John Wing and Derek Seguin take on this debate. But first: Diamonds - are they anybody's friend? Fraser Young debates Jen Grant
("Museums" recorded April 15, 2012 at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.)

Is live theatre still relevant? "This is That" hosts Pat Kelly and Peter Oldring discuss. Also on the show Elvira Kurt and Judy Gold debate who's the better mom - a younger woman or an older woman.

("Young Moms vs. Old Moms" recorded April 15, 2012 at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.)

Canadians have a reputation for being polite. But are we more polite than the British? UK funny man Matt Kirshen thinks we are, but Canadian comic Charlie Demers says the Brits are way more polite. Also on the show today, purebreds. And who better to debate the merits of blue blood than the Queen herself, (as played by Scott Thompson). And her opponent, that loveable cockney chanteuse Adele (as played by Sean Cullen)

Where would you rather shop for fruits and veg, the super market or the farmer's market? Comedians Darcy Michael and Terry McGurrin debate this. Also on the show today, Star Trek vs. Star Wars: Patrick Maliha and Evany Rosen boldy go where the Debaters have, surprisingly, not gone before. (Recorded April 15, 2012 at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.)

Don Kelly vs. Bruce Clark on the topic of First Nations' Values. And Jon Steinberg vs. John Wing on the Metric System. Taped at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.

Graham Clark and Cory Mack debate the merits of handmade stuff. Then Lori Gibbs and David Pryde duke it out over hugs.

Are BBQs better than picnics? Is it time to change the Canadian flag?

Is Saskatchewan the most boring place? To make it harder on one of the debaters, we recorded it this Saskatoon. James O'Shea supports Saskatchewan while Dean Jenkinson insults the good natured home town crowd. Also, is it harder to be the oldest or the youngest child? Kelly Taylor and Howard Glassman go toe to toe.

Do we have too much stuff? Comedians Jon Steinberg and Dan Redican go head to head in a storage wars challenge. And then Hamilton boy Kyle Radke says "no way" to Peter Anthony in a debate about Hamilton becoming part of Greater Toronto.^[26]

It's the ultimate computer debate: PC vs. Mac. Vancouver comics Ivan Decker and Toby Hargrave go head to head. Also on the show Al Rae and Charles Demers argue about who counts as a greater icon in Saskatchewan: John Diefenbaker or Tommy Douglas?^[27]

Is Gossip Good? Debra DiGiovanni likes nothing better than a good chin wag, while Dave Hemstad claims he's above such petty concerns with Debaters host Steve Patterson doing his best to slay the slander before it gets too out of hand. Also on the show, is it good to be a Muslim in Canada? Eman El Husseini thinks it is, while Ali Hassan says Eman needs a reality check.^[28]

Mike Wilmot and Nikki Glaser argue the veracity of the adage "Early to Bed, Early to Rise." And then Australian comedian Sam Simmons takes on Debaters veteran John Wing in baseball versus cricket.^[29]

From Just for Laughs in Montreal, comic heavyweights Andy Kindler and James Adomian debate whether Vegas is truly awesome. And then it's nerds versus jocks: Nathan Macintosh comes out swinging for the jocks, while Scott Faulconbridge champions his fellow nerds.

Sean Cullen and Mark Little debate whether Jaws is the greatest movie monster. Then: Iliza Shlesinger and Mo Mandel take on the battle of the sexes topic: would everything work better if men were always in charge?

Are we over parenting our children? Elvira Kurt says no but funny man Francois Weber thinks we all need to relax a little. Then Jonny Harris and Jon Steinberg debate whether ghosts are real.^[30] Recorded in Charlottetown, P.E.I. WINNERS:

Jonny Harris TIED Jon Steinberg

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, is plagiarism so bad? Jeff Rothpan and Rebecca Kohler debate. Then: is Burton Cummings the greatest artist Winnipeg ever produced? Dean Jenkinson and Al Rae disagree. (Recorded April 15, 2012 at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.)

Are Old Testament stories the best ever told? K Trevor Wilson and Simon Rakoff show that they are "Abel" to raise a lot of "Cain" with this topic. Also on the show, Ancestry. With the popularity of shows such as "Who Do You Think You Are," we ask - is knowing your ancestry really that important? Vancouver comic Charlie Demers thinks so and he takes on PEI comedian Patrick Ledwell on his home turf in Charlottetown.

Which of Canada's two major coasts is superior, the east or the west? Charlie Demers (BC) and Patrick Ledwell (PEI) debate. Then, who is better at communication - men or women? Derek Seguin takes up the challenge for men everywhere, while Kristeen von Hagen carries the torch for womankind. Recorded in Charlottetown, P.E.I.

Are surprise parties the best kind of parties? Naomi Snieckus and Pat Thornton argue over what it means to have people jump up and yell Surprise! at you. Then: Should we colonize Mars? Award winning comedians Sean Cullen and Ron Sparks duke it out over the red planet.

Pete "The Zed Man" Zedlacher and Scott Faulconbridge duke it out over nicknames. Then, at what point are you too old to accept money from your parents? Daddy's girl Christina Walkinshaw says you're never too old. Whereas independently minded Kristeen von Hagen thinks 30 is the cut off.

Arthur Simeon and Nile Seguin duke it out over chocolate. Arthur champions the dark variety whereas Nile professes his love for milk chocolate, and host Steve Patterson can't resist getting in on the act. Then an argument about dancing men with David Pryde and Ward Anderson.

Are Smart Phones making us dumb? Darcy Michael and Ivan Decker debate. Then: Should people clothe their pets? Graham Clark and Michelle Shaughnessy disagree.

Are the bagpipes the worst instrument every invented? Derek Seguin and Johnny 'Bagpipes' Johston disagree. Then Sunee Dhaliwal and Paul Bae argue over whether Canada would be better off with an ethnic P.M. Recorded in Surrey.

Jon Steinberg and Terry McGurrin debate whether boredom is our friend. Then: women in hip are debated by Evany Rosen and Dave Merheje.

Is ignorance really bliss? Dave Hemstad and DeAnne Smith duke it out over that old adage. Then Darrin Rose and Darren Frost take on the question, did civilization peak in the 80s?

Should we embrace puns as the ultimate form of comedy? Or is the pun the lowest form of humour? That's up for debate with Charlie Demers and Gary Jones. Then: Is love at first sight really possible? Erica Sigurdson and Julie Kim love arguing about it.

Ali Hassan and Alan Park debate jet fighters. Then we debate the old adage "trust your gut" featuring Rebecca Kohler and Graham Chitteneden.

Scott Faulconbridge and Jon Steinberg debate whether what they're doing is relevant. Then Ali Hassan and Evany Rosen debate the merits of living in residence.

Alan Park and Graham Chittenden debate the pros and cons of disposable products. And Mark Little and Christina Walkinshaw disagree over whether men and women can be "just friends." Taped at Bishop's University.

From a February, 2013 taping at Bishop's University. Patrick Ledwell and Derek Seguin debate whether tuition should be free. Then Ron Sparks and David Pryde debate whether hobbits are heroes or just hacks.

In Victoria, B.C., Trent McClellan and Alan Park debate whether the Northern Gateway Pipeline is a good idea. Then Dean Jenkinson and Ian Boothby debate whether Dr. Seuss is a good role model for kids. Taped in Victoria, B.C.

Is it okay for women to propose marriage to men? Charlie Demers and Erica Sigurdson debate that. Graham Clark and Sunee Dhaliwal debate whether Basketball is Canada's greatest invention.

Are bikes or cars the better mode of transportation? Ivan Decker and Sean Proudlove debate. Then: Are buskers artists or just annoying? Kristeen von Hagen says "get ‘em off the street," but Wes Borg loves a good show on the road. Taped at the McPherson Playhouse in Victoria.

Taped at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. We ask whether CGI has ruined movies with John Wing and Ivan Decker. And then Al Rae and Deb Kimmett will duke it out over the uber-popular TV show Downton Abbey.

No bad kids, just bad parents. That'll be debated by Derek Seguin and Michael Gelbart. Then Seán Cullen and Kate Davis debate whether James Bond is the ideal man.

Trent McClellan and Kathleen McGee debate whether online dating is the way to go. Then Charlie Demers and Mark Forward debate whether climate change has a silver lining.^[31]

Darren Frost and Dave Martin debate whether the Gov't will be a good pot dealer once marijuana is legalized. And then Pat Thornton and Elvira Kurt have a big argument about leftovers.

Canada Day Long Weekend broadcast. Are family vacations good vacations? David Pryde and Scott Faulconbridge debate. Taped at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Then: Should fireworks be embraced or banned? Patrick McKenna and Diane Francis take on this explosive debate.

Recorded May 29, 2013 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre in Burlington, Ontario.

When the going gets dangerous, which instinct should you follow - Fight or Flight? Erica Sigurdson & David Pryde argue over if humanity has survived because of our ability to run away from danger. Also on the show, traditional medicine: Is it superior to our modern stuff? Darcy Michael thinks it is, but the whole idea just gives K. Trevor Wilson a pain.

Is there really any reason to know how to spell? Comedian and poet John Wing is a stickler for getting it right, while Dave Merheje thinks John should chill and let spell check do the work. Also on the show this Saturday, Canadian sex appeal. Are Canadians sexy? Debra DiGiovanni thinks we are, but Newfoundland's Jonny Harris argues Canadians are not.

Are lies a necessary part of life? Terry McGurrin argues for this, while "honest as the day is long" Simon Rakoff knows exactly what the best policy is. Also on the show this week, should everyone have a pet? Nikki Payne says it's a natural, while veterinarian Ted Morris argues from experience that this is just not true.^[32]

Are unions obsolete? Dave Hemstad asserts that they are, while Don Kelly gets on his soap box to support unions. Then...are insects our friends or foes? Ron Sparks says no - his jokes float like a butterfly, and Arthur Simeon's sting like a bee.^[34]

Recorded May 29, 2013 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre in Burlington, Ontario.

Are parking enforcers the unsung heroes of the city? Simon Cotter is a definite "no" on this one whereas Rebecca Kohler sympathizes with this unpopular employee. Then we ask whether everyone should endeavour to learn a 2nd Language. Polyglot, Martha Chaves says si, oui and baleh. But monolingual Glen Foster thinks one language is more than enough.

Recorded May 29, 2013 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre in Burlington, Ontario.

Funny Mommy, Kate Davis and stand-up Amanda Brooke Perrin debate whether it's a good idea for parents to be friends with their children. Also, should Canada be a world leader in innovation? Arguing for this is funnyman Dave Hemstad. Arguing against is debater's newbie Mark DeBonis. And your host Steve Patterson keeps the Kitchener/Waterloo audience happy.

Graham Chittenden and Pete Zedlacher debate whether classic rock should just fade away. Then, 'tis the season for beer steins and lederhosen as French Canadian comic Derek Seguin says he is in favour of Oktoberfest while German Canadian comic Kristeen von Hagen says "nein!" - in front of a Kitchener crowd. (Recorded in Kitchener, Ontario.)

In this age of self promotion and marketing, is it a good idea for each of us to have a personal brand? Andy Kindler thinks brands are delightful while Charlie Demers says they're despicable. Also on the show, Cowtown. Is it time for Calgary to lose its hokey nickname? Calgarians Allyson Smith and Trent McClellan take this one on in front of a hometown audience.^[35]

Who makes the better outlaw, pirates or cowboys? The main plank of Ron Sparks' argument is in favour of pirates, whereas the other chap, Trent McClellan, supports cowboys. Then, can exes be friends? Lori Gibbs is in love with the idea, but Ryan Belleville doesn't think it's possible.

Be it resolved that no meal is complete without meat. That is the resolution before comedians Derek Edwards and Graham Clark on this episode of The Debaters. Then we talk RV's. Cory Mack tries to convince RV enthusiast, Brian Stollery, that vacationing on wheels is idiotic.

Funny men Ron Sparks and Nathan Macintosh go at it over being on time. Then This Hour Has 22 Minutes star Cathy Jones and Laugh Out Loud host Ali Hassan debate whether "retirement" is a dirty word.

Are the names we give our babies getting out of hand? PEI's Patrick Ledwell says "the weirder the better" whereas sensible Haligonian Brian Aylward says "keep it normal". Then, whereas the flame of passion is easily extinguished be it resolved that all married couples should work hard to keep the romance alive. Scott Faulconbridge agrees wholeheartedly, but Laurie Elliott can't be bothered.

Do dreams teach us valuable lessons? Sean Cullen will try to convince you this is true, whereas Graham Chittenden argues that dreams are nothing to hang your hopes on. Also on the show, Mark Farrell and Evany Rosen go head to head over the notion that Halifax is a world class city.

Al Rae and Eman El-Husseini debate Quebec's Charter of Values. And then Scott Faulconbridge and Dave Hemstad debate whether money is the toot of all evil.

When it comes to kids parties, who makes the better entertainer, a clown or a magician? Pat Thornton champions the clown and Dave Acer endorses the magician. Then Amanda Brooke Perrin and Rob Pue debate whether it's a good idea to date someone better looking than yourself.

Whereas there ain't nothing like the real thing, be it resolved that reality TV is superior to the scripted variety. Trevor Boris makes his case in favour of reality TV while Alan Park stays on script. Then Chuck Byrn and Chris Locke debate whether Caveman was the best man.

If time travel was possible, would it be better to go to the future or the past? Evany Rosen would much rather take a hike through history. But Rodney Ramsey looks forward to the idea of traveling to the future. Also on the show: is there such a thing as a soulmate? Derek Seguin loves the idea, but Erica Sigurdson thinks it's silly.

Is small talk a waste of time? Murdoch Mysteries star, Jonny Harris supports small talk while funny man Mark DeBonis tells us why he thinks it's unnecessary. Also on the show, Nile Seguin and Elvira Kurt go head to head over whether anonymity on the internet is a bad thing.

When it comes to weather, which is worse? Rain or snow? David Pryde prefers the rain. But Ron Sparks has nothing but an avalanche of praise for snow. Also on the show today, going to the gym. Should we all do it? Body builder Aaron Berg sure thinks so. But laid back funny man Jean Paul says the gym is a waste of time.

Is it time to abolish the senate or should it be reformed? Comedians Alan Park and Charlie Demers take on this contentious issue. Then Deb Kimmett and Kate Davis debate whether they'd like to live with their kids when they get older. Recorded at The Centrepointe Theatre in Ottawa.

Apples versus Oranges. Master of the absurd, Jon Steinberg celebrates the apple while the passionately hilarious David Pryde champions the orange. Then Christina Walkinshaw and Peter Anthony debate whether we should ban perfume.

When it comes to books, are you a convert to the E-version or do you remain loyal to the paperback? Comedian Diana Frances is an old fashioned book lover, but Patrick Ledwell would have you embrace the new technology. After that we're talking bribery. Montreal comedians Franco Taddeo and Derek Seguin argue whether sometimes bribery is not such a bad thing.

Hot cereal or cold cereal - which is superior? Pat Thornton says, "Oatmeal is an oaf's meal!" DeAnne Smith thinks cold cereal is for flakes. Also on the show today: Nations - does the world have too many? Al Rae says, "The more borders the better." Don Kelly thinks so many nations are an abomination.

Should Canada have The Bomb? Terry McGurrin says, "We need the A bomb, eh!" But K Trevor Wilson says, "We're Canucks not Can-nukes." Then, we ask the question: Are kids today smarter than we were? Scott Faulconbridge says, "Youth know the truth!" Nathan Macintosh thinks their brains have been drained.

Is there room in Canada's cities for wildlife to roam? Is there room on our roads for bike paths?

Are heels or flats the superior women's shoe? And do kids keep us young?

Should fighting be allowed in hockey? Is it OK to be a picky eater?

Should more young people go into farming? Big Daddy Tazz thinks so, but Phil Hanley figures it's a waste of time. Then John Wing and Dean Jenkinson debate the merits of folk music.

Are psychic powers real? Jen Grant thinks so but Rebecca Kohler is sceptical. Also, should all kids play team sports? Dave Hemstad thinks so but Ted Morris would rather skip the rules.

What's cooler, to be a spy or an astronaut? Is Winnipeg a gem or a bust?

Is it harder to be tall or short? Six foot five inch Sunee Dhaliwal tries to convince three foot six inch Tanyalee Davis that he has a harder row to hoe. Also on this show, street smarts versus book smarts with Evany Rosen and Jon Steinberg.

Which is the better Canadian Icon, the Polar Bear or the Beaver. Graham Clark is all about the polar bear, but Peter Brown believes in the beaver. Then Ron Sparks and Elvira Kurt argue the merits of awards shows.

Whereas poverty and social injustice remain a global problem, be it resolved that nobody should be a billionaire. Funny men Ali Hassan and Graham Chittenden take on this rich topic. Then Christina Walkinshaw and Darryl Orr debate whether divorcees make good partners.

Is it better to be the dumper or the dumpee when it comes to a dying relationship? Rebecca Kohler would rather pull the plug herself. But Phil Hanley prefers to be the victim. Also, is William Shatner the greatest actor of all time? Sean Cullen sure thinks so, but Eric Peterson has a different take.

An extended cut of the "Apples vs. Oranges" debate.

An extended cut of the "Dreams" debate.

An extended cut of the "Meat" debate.

An extended cut of the "William Shatner" debate.

This debate won the 2015 Canadian Comedy Award for Best Radio Clip of the year.

Should Canada Post continue door to door mail delivery? Funny men Graham Clark and Charlie Demers respectfully disagree. Then singles Ivan Decker and Kathleen McGee debate whether it's time for men to up their game when it comes to pitching woo.^[37]

The very brave Glenn Foster argues in favour of cutting the CBC, while beloved CBC actor Pat McKenna comes to the Mother Corps' defense. Then talk turns domestic as Rob Pue and Kristeen von Hagen debate whether couples would be better off sleeping in separate beds.

Is fishing a waste of time? Trent McClellan thinks so but Howie Miller tries to lure him over to his side. Then Ivan Decker and Herb Dixon debate whether motorcycles are just too loud and dangerous.

Peter Anthony prefers the condo whereas Scott Faulconbridge loves his house. Then Ron Sparks paints a vivid picture as he and James Cunningham debate the merits of food trucks.

Which would be the worse invasion - zombies or aliens? Jon Steinberg and Mike Wilmot shine in this hilarious debate. Then Dave Hemstad and Deb Kimmett debate whether proms are a good rite of passage for teens.

"Don't Worry be Happy" is Derek Seguin's mantra, but Charlie Demers thinks the sentiment is troublesome. And Bed and Breakfasts are some people's idea of a great place to stay (people like Lori Gibbs) but they are Tim Nutt's idea of torture.

Should there be a bridge between Vancouver Island and the mainland of BC? Ivan Decker thinks so while proud islander Todd Butler is buoyed by ferry service. Then we ask Dana Alexander and Charlie Demers to debate who Canadians more resemble - Brits or Yanks.

Whereas flowers and veggies are readily available be it resolved that gardening is a waste of time. Sean Lecomber digs this resolution but Lori Gibbs nurtures the other side. Then Derek Seguin and Graham Clark engage in a sticky debate about exports, namely oil and maple syrup.

When it comes to competition, is it really all that important to win? Erica Sigurdson sure thinks so but Derek Seguin figures losing is okay too. Then Bruce Clark and Peter Oldring debate the merits of selfies.

Is it time to give poor Justin Bieber a break? Gavin Stephens says we should forgive and forget, but Rebecca Kohler wants to hold him to account. Then: Do we give scientists too much money? Ron Sparks thinks so, but Pete Zedlacher figures they're worth every penny.

Which is the better mythical creature, unicorns or dragons? DeAnne Smith champions the dragon, while Mark Forward sings the praises of the unicorn. Then Scott Faulconbridge and Patrick Ledwell debate whether it's a good idea to get to know your neighbours.

Is Lego the best toy of all time? Ivan Decker thinks so but Howie Miller will try to block that argument. And is re-gifting the best gifting? Erica Sigurdson is a fan a recycled gifts but Julie Kim thinks re-gifting is just thoughtless.

Evany Rosen and David Pryde debate which is better, the limerick or the haiku. Then Darryl Orr and Mark Little debate the merits of practical jokes.

Nathan Macintosh thinks The Beatles are over-rated but Dean Jenkinson argues they are not. Then Dave Hemstad talks about why marriage is bad and Kate Davis tries to convince him he's wrong.

Is Wayne Gretzky the greatest hockey player of all time? Trent McClellan has the un-enviable task of dissing the Great One in Oiler-town, while Paul Myrehaug defends Brantford's best boy. Then, are bearded men the best men? Hirsute Graham Clark sets out to prove that furry men are fine. While smooth-faced Sean Lecomber says bearded men are emotionally unstable.

Ali Hassan and Jon Steinberg debate whether Work Sucks. Then Nikki Payne and Simon Rakoff go head to head in a debate about shouting.

Ryan Belleville and Sean Cullen debate salt versus sugar. Then Nile Seguin and Aisha Alfa go head to head in a debate about the merits of having curly hair.

Is it harder to raise toddlers or teens? Funny fathers John Wing and Kelly Taylor share some hilarious stories and jokes about being dads. Then: Should Calgary be the capital of Alberta? It kind of seems like it is already doesn't it? Peter Brown says, "No way!" while Al Rae says, "Of course Calgary should be the capital - sort of." Taped in front of and Edmonton audience.

Is it time for aging movie action stars to hang up their hats? Jen Grant they should be terminated while Don Kelly says they make his day. Then Mike Wilmot and Terry McGurrin argue whether the assembled audience is the best one ever.

Are we too obsessed with bacon? David Acer thinks so but Dave Hemstad thinks it's impossible to love bacon too much. Then, can a man be a feminist? Derek Seguin doesn't think so but DeAnne Smith says they need to be.

Are grandparents a bad influence? Patrick Ledwell thinks so but David Pryde disagrees. Then Evany Rosen thinks people are sharing too much these days, but Christina Walkinshaw figures sharing is caring.

Is Montreal a good place for English speakers? Rebecca Kohler says, "non." But Derek Seguin insists, "mais oui." Then Jon Steinberg and Joey Elias debate whether fish can be pets.

Should 16 year olds get to vote? Graham Chittenden thinks so but Chris Locke figures it would be a disaster. Then Mike Paterson tries to convince Aisha Alfa that cat videos are the very best thing on the internet.

Ron Sparks and Graham Chittenden debate whether the children of famous people have it made. Then Alan Park and Pat Thornton debate whether drones are evil.

Are self driving cars the wave of the future? Ivan Decker thinks so, while Sean Lecomber steers clear of the idea. And then Julie Kim and Graham Clark take on a debate about how hard it is, or is not, to find a good man in Vancouver.

Kyle Bottom and Paul Bae debate whether comic books are strictly for kids. Then Toby Hargrave and Darcy Michael argue about the merits of body hair.

Vancouver comedians Charlie Demers and Erica Sigurdson argue whether protests ever accomplish anything. Then Jackie Kashian and Trent McClellan debate King Kong vs Tarzan - who is the real king of the apes?

Is watching golf a waste of time? Erica Sigurdson thinks so but John Wing waxes poetic about the game. Then Ivan Decker and Pete Johansson debate which is the worse urban menace, pigeons or crows.

Is it time to include ads on CBC Radio One? Charlie Demers says, "Never!" Al Rae thinks it might be time. Then Danish Anwar and Rebecca Kohler debate whether air travel has improved our lives.

When it comes to kids and clothes, should we let them wear whatever they want? Free-range dad Wes Borg thinks so, but father of three Derek Seguin would never let his kids loose in his closet. Then, Winnipeg "cards" Paul Rabliauskas and Bruce Clark debate whether Bingo is a great game.

Do friends help friends move? DJ Demers thinks so but Tim Nutt thinks no true friend ever asks him to help on moving day. Also, should couple dress alike? Chanty Marostica and Amber Daniels pair up to convince Darcy Michael that dressing alike is adorable.

Peter Wildman and Pete Zedlacher debate which is the worse outdoor menace: bugs or bears? Then Derek Seguin and Don Kelly debate whether the canoe is the best boat of all time.

Should every town have a roadside attraction like Moose Jaw's moose? Howie Miller thinks so but Sean Lecomber begs to differ. Then Kelly Taylor and Dean Jenkinson debate which is better, -40 or +40 Celsius.

When the 20 somethings - aka Millennials - come of age and start running things, is society doomed? Young gun, Ivan Decker takes on the Baby Boomer bravado of John Wing. Then, 50 Shades of Graham Clark tells Lori Gibbs why Romance Novels are fantastic fiction. Taped in Saskatoon.

Winners: Ivan Decker, Graham Clark.^[38]

Should parents pay for good grades? Pat KcKenna thinks it's the best way to get them to move out of the house... eventually. But Rebecca Kohler says, "If you don't like what your kid is doing, you don't offer a bonus, you remove a necessity." Then Pete Zedlacher and Tyler Morrison argue over whether Lake Superior is indeed the superior Great Lake. Taped in Thunder Bay.

Winners: Patrick McKenna, Pete Zedlacher.

Which is superior, mountains or prairies? Corner Gas's Eric Peterson sings the praises of the prairie while mountain man Neil Grahn prefers the peaks. Then Jon Steinberg tries to convince Erica Sigurdson that it's not time to give up on Daylight Saving Time.

Winners: Eric Peterson, Erica Sigurdson.

Dean Jenkinson and David Pryde argue the merits of film sequels. Then Darryl Orr and Tanyalee Davis debate whether first impressions are necessarily lasting ones.

Winners: David Pryde, Darryl Orr.

Jen Grant and Ron Sparks debate whether Dollar Stores are the best retail experience out there. Then Scott Faulconbridge and Laurie Elliott argue whether couples are better off taking separate vacations.
Scott Faulconbridge plays a song for Laurie Elliott.

Winners: Ron Sparks, Laurie Elliott.

The 300th Debaters episode is also a Halloween special!
When it comes to Halloween, should we all embrace the day and wear a costume? Darcy Michael sure thinks so, but Jen Grant thinks it sends a bad message to kids. And shouldn't every Canadian be able to pass the citizenship test, not just the new ones? Danish Anwar thinks so but Ron Sparks isn't sure it's such a good idea.
Premiered on a Wednesday instead of the usual Saturday. (Wednesday is usually a repeat of an older episode).
Ron Sparks and Jen Grant both appear in back-to-back episodes. This week they are not debating each other.

Winners: Darcy Michael, Ron Sparks.

Ryan Belleville and Derek Edwards debate fork versus spoon, in an epic battle of tableware. Then Big Daddy Tazz tries to convince Shazia Mirza that engineered animals will be a great thing for the world.

Winners: Derek Edwards, Big Daddy Tazz.

Are bad boys the best boys? Debra DiGiovanni sure thinks so but Sean Cullen is convinced that bad boys are the worst boys and he wants Debra to know it. Also: is the saxophone the best darned music instrument around? Jazz musician and funny man Darryl Orr tries to play his way to the win. While sax hater Chris Locke boos Darryl's tunes.

Are Newfoundlanders the friendliest of Canadians? Home town girl, Cathy Jones is not so sure, but frequent visitor Jen Grant thinks they are. Also: is cat calling a legitimate form of flattery? John Sheehan wolf whistles his way through this one, while Matt Wright tries to convince him it's an outdated way to get a date.

Is it time to call it quits with movie remakes? Jon Steinberg and David Pryde show some comedic True Grit in this debate.

Then Snook (aka Pete Soucy) and east-coaster Brian Aylward debate the merits of birdwatching - all in the land of the puffin.

When it comes to super powers, would you rather have invisibility or flight? Sean Cullen wants to fly, but DeAnne Smith would rather no one sees her. Then Ron Sparks and Mark Farrell get meta (and esoteric), with a debate about whether the debate they're having is actually a debate.

Laurie Elliott tries to convince Derek Seguin that salad is way better than soup. He, of course, will have none of it.

Then Ali Hassan and David Pryde embark on a debate about servants. Should we all have them if we can afford them, or is the idea just too old-fashioned?

Is yoga deserving of its popularity? Vancouver's own downward facing dog Darcy Michael goes to the mat defending yoga against naysayer DeAnne Smith.

Then defender of the people, Charlie Demers, takes on offender of the people, Derek Seguin, debating whether political correctness has gone too far.^[39]

Has British Columbian environmentalism gone too far? Glen Foster thinks it has, while Wes Borg defends the West Coast ways.

Then it's a debate about household chores and whether laundry or grocery shopping is worse with Ivan Decker and Erica Sigurdson.

Real talent is rare. So, if children show exceptional ability, should parents push them to succeed at the highest level? Dave Hemstad thinks so but Katie-Ellen Humphries says no way.

Then, Kyle Bottom and Ivan Decker debate whether video games are a waste of time.

Vancouver's mountains, ocean and forest draw people from around the world. But Peter Brown says it's only worth visiting, while Charlie Demers wonders why everyone doesn't want to live there. Then, we tackle cash bars at weddings: Paul Bae says no way, while bride-to-be Julie Kim says "I do".

Erica Sigurdson thinks backseat drivers are helpful, which is laughable to Derek Seguin. Then, Tim Nutt thinks phone books are obsolete while Graham Clark can think of a million things to do with them.

Is gravity our friend or enemy? Scott Faulconbridge says friend, but David Acer is all for foe. Then Kristeen von Hagen tries to convince Graham Chittenden that binge-watching is the only way to watch TV.

Paul Myrehaug and Graham Clark debate pizza. Is it great or is it really great? Then, Sean Lecomber and Rebecca Kohler debate whether we need to see more plain-looking people in movies and on television.

It's that age-old question: are cats smarter than dogs? French funnyman Derek Seguin says they are, while smooth-talking dog lover Derek Edwards disagrees. And, should messy people clean up their acts? This debate features Elvira Kurt and Ryan Belleville.

If you ask a foreigner what the capital of Canada is, they just might say Toronto. So: Be it resolved that Toronto is the true capital of Canada. Peter Anthony and Jon Steinberg square off. Then, Laurie Elliott and Peter Wildman debate the merits of PDAs… Public Displays of Affection.

Is Superman the greatest superhero of all time? Ian Boothby sure thinks so but Ivan Decker is just not sold on the idea. Then, Katie-Ellen Humphries and Graham Clark put to rest that old question: buttons or zippers?

Fred Penner (yes, THE Fred Penner) and Debaters favourite Ron Sparks debate whether everyone should sing. Then, Amanda Brooke Perrin and Patrick Ledwell pit texting against good old-fashioned phone calls.

When you need a ride, do you call a taxi or Uber? Sunee Dhaliwal is all about Uber, while cab-driving comic Sean Proudlove would rather you hire a hack. And the other debate on this episode pits American against British spelling. Charlie Demers champions the extra u's, while John Wing thinks he should just drop it… the u, that is.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gets headlines wherever he goes, for his politics and sometimes for looks. The Debaters asks whether having a good-looking PM is good for Canada. Evany Rosen argues it will all end in tears, while Arthur Simeon thinks good looks can only be good. Then, Pete Zedlacher and David Pryde take on that old travel conundrum: checked versus carry-on luggage.

Lara Rae, formerly Al Rae, and her old friend Bruce Clark debate whether it's possible for people to really change.

Then Andy Kindler and DeAnne Smith make their marks in the pens versus pencils debate.

Is craft beer overrated? Vancouver hipster Kyle Bottom is all about that beer while Victoria's Mike Delamont is a bit baffled by it. Then, Jon Steinberg and Lori Gibbs debate the merits of fitting in.

Are men just as good at raising babies as women? Stay-at-home dad Faisal Butt thinks he has paternal potential, but new dad Dave Hemstad doubts his duties. Pat Thornton then tries to convince DeAnne Smith that dinosaurs were the greatest creatures to ever walk the earth.

Debating the merits of the man bun are Sean Cullen and Simon King. Then, Dave Merheje and Sean Lecomber argue over who's better: family or friends.^[40]

Are kids bad for the planet? Phil Hanley poo-poos procreation, while Big Daddy Tazz can't imagine not being, well, a daddy.

Then Martha Chaves and Derek Seguin share the joys and miseries of picking up the tongue.

Erica Sigurdson and Pete Johanson argue the merits of celebrating anniversaries. Then, Dean Jenkinson and Graham Clark duke it out over TV Theme songs.

School's out for the summer! Should work be, too? Jon Steinberg argues summer break should be no vacation, but Kate Davis says kids just want to have sun. Then, is it true that nothing beats the fair? Listen to Sean Cullen and Matt O'Brien go up-and-down and round-and-round in this roller coaster debate!

Rivers and lakes: both majestic, but which would you choose? Pat Thornton's pro-lake take certainly holds water, while John Wing's river argument refuses to bend. Then, Jess Salomon and Darryl Lenox have some irreconcilable differences over mixed marriages.

Grill-masters Derek Seguin and Howie Miller turn up the gas with a classic summertime debate. Then, Whitehorse comedians Jenny Hamilton and Anthony Trombetta decide whether they should warm up to tourists.

Taped June 20, 2016 at the Yukon Arts Centre, as part of a two show evening. Both debates were part of the late show (9:30pm).

First, should we stop giving kids weird names? Kyle Bottom reassures Mayce Galoni that his parents didn't make a huge mistake (on his birth certificate). Mayce holds down the other side of the "Plain vs. Odd Names" debate, pointing out that: "People with common names are more likely to get hired. Probably because their resume doesn't start with a typo."

Then, were classic toys the best toys? Finally, a debate where comedians are supposed to act like children! You'll go yo-yo over Greg Morton and Nikki Payne's rock 'em sock 'em arguments.

Dave Hemstad thinks "if it wasn't for rejection, we wouldn't know who Adele is" as he argues that rejection builds character, while the only thing David Pryde ever wants rejected is that very argument.

Next up: Are potlucks the worst? See what Arthur Simeon and Laurie Elliott bring to this delicious debate. Do too many cooks spoil the meal? Arthur thinks that "potlucks are the Canadian way of saying 'yes I have a nicer house than you, but I can't cook.'"

Has social justice finally turned the tables on white men? Don Kelly, who's Ojibway, argues there's more to be done, while Glen Foster defends the patriarchy. Then, funny farmer Denis Grignon and Ryan Belleville finally settle the age old question of which came first: the chicken or the egg?^[44]

Bring your PJs, because it's a dress-down showdown with Katie-Ellen Humphries and Ivan Decker. Then, Graham Clark and Sean Lecomber debate vinyl: Is it worth owning? Hear them needle, scratch and rip each other's arguments apart! Katie-Ellen Humphries dresses down Ivan Decker's argument for dressing up, while Graham Clark tells Sean Lecomber he loves vinyl and that's final.^[45]

Taped June 20, 2016 at the Yukon Arts Centre, as part of two shows. Vinyl was part of the early show (7pm), with Comfort vs. Style taped at the later show (9:30pm).

Is bragging better than modesty? Darcy Michael boasts an impressive argument, while Charlie Demers requests we consider his polite points. Then, Erica Sigurdson gets it done in the sun debating night-owl Kyle Bottom on Day vs Night.

Taped June 20, 2016 at the Yukon Arts Centre, with both debates recorded at the early show (7pm).

DeAnne Smith tries to charm Arthur Simeon out of his superstition skepticism, while Jon Steinberg does his best not to overhear DJ Demers's argument on behalf of eavesdropping.^[46]

Seán Cullen challenges David Pryde to a seasonal showdown, while Ron Sparks and Rebecca Kohler can't get N'sync over a Titanic decade: the 90s.

New Debaters hire Nour Hadidi matches her skills to Dave Hemstad's experience in a job interviews debate. Then, Derek Edwards and Peter Anthony get ugly deciding whether beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Ojibway comedian Don Kelly refuses to go outside when Winnipeg's Dean Jenkinson invites him out to play. Then, should we delete Facebook? Paul Myrehaug promises to delete his account if he beats Kathleen McGee.

In a debate of dry land and dry wit, Lara Rae and Charlie Demers get bottled up over Canada's abundant fresh-water supply. After record droughts in the United States, Lara doesn't understate that the States are in a state of emergency: "America needs our help! California is turning into a desert! Mostly because it's a desert, but still." On the other hand, Charlie cautions Lara with some water-tight logic: "The water in Canada belongs to Indigenous peoples. Sharing it with the States would be like if I shared the hubcaps I stole off Steve's car." Play this debate now before the stream runs out.

Then, should Las Vegas have an NHL team? Place your bets as Damonde Tschritter and new This Hour Has 22 Minutes anchor Trent McClellan debate the NHL's controversial new franchise. Schritter argues than Las Vegas is more Canadian than you think, since "Celine Dion will be at the stadium singing the national anthem, so you can double down!" while Mclellan takes the classic pro-hockey approach that "Gary Bettman is NHL all right: Not Hockey Loving. He has no sense of tradition, otherwise he would give the fine folks of Quebec City a franchise." Which debater will hit the jackpot? Take in this show to find out!

Tim Steeves and Mayce Galoni get dicey over a beloved holiday pastime: board games. Then, Laurie Elliott checks her professionalism — and pants — at the door for her Office Holiday Party debate with Scott Faulconbridge.

It's The Debaters' most ambitious battle of generations yet. Or is it? Citing that most things are outside of our control, Kyle Bottom tells baby boomer John Wing that ambition is an outdated concept: "Work hard and you can achieve your goals. Neato, grandpa!" But John Wing thinks time can't constrain greatness, because with hard work you never know what you may achieve: "The telephone: a Canadian invention. The pacemaker: a Canadian invention. The beer funnel: a Canadian invention. And then we sort of slacked off on the inventing for a while."

Then, should we use online reviews to decide what to buy, where to travel and what to eat? Erica Sigurdson says those who attack the credibility of online reviews are the ones who are criminal: "As a woman, it makes me feel safer knowing my driver has five stars. That's almost impossible to get if you attack and kill someone." Meanwhile, Derek Seguin reminds Erica who helped her go shopping the morning of the debate: "The first item you tried on was not reviewed by an online reviewer, but by a very fashion sensible French-Canadian man, was it not?" Who will get the best yelps from the audience?^[49]

Dave Hemstad and John Wing discuss exaggeration in the greatest debate of all time. Then, listen to find out who will win the favour of the stars in a debate on horoscopes—will it be Derek Seguin or Jackie Kashian?^[51]

Nour Hadidi and Arthur Simeon decide whether they should've been tested for Canadian values. Then, free-standing stand-ups Pat Thornton and Ali Hassan give Toronto their views of the CN Tower.

Moose-lover Lorne Cardinal (Corner Gas) behooves Craig Lauzon (Royal Canadian Air Farce) to damn the beaver as Canada's national animal. Then, Graham Clark shows his feet to Lori Gibbs.

Comedian and trained chef Ali Hassan goes toe-to-mistletoe against the one and only Santa Claus (played by Seán Cullen). Then, Graham Clark and Jenny Hamilton draw conclusions over whether Peanuts is the greatest comic strip of all time.^[54] Recorded at the Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver. WINNERS: Sean Cullen def. Ali Hassan

Grahm Clark def. Jenny Hamilton

John Cullen and Derek Seguin try to school one another when they argue if grades should be removed from report cards. Then, Ivan Decker and Katie-Ellen Humphries make resolutions as to whether or not New Year's Eve is the worst night of the year. Taped at Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver. WINNERS: John Cullen TIED Derek Seguin

Katie-Ellen Humphries def. Ivan Decker

There's no stopping for Erica Sigurdson and Sean Lecomber as they try to validate their arguments over whether or not we need more parking spaces. Then, Howie Miller and Kathleen McGee engage in the question: "Should you marry your high school sweetheart?"^[57]