Why Isn’t Pierre Poilievre on Joe Rogan?

Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s Conservative Party, currently stands at a decisive crossroads. He has a genuine opportunity to galvanize Canadians longing for substantive change—yet his current strategy suggests a reluctance to break free from the old political playbook. Too many within his circle seem fixated on a “just attack and coast” approach, echoing the Biden campaign’s blueprint of relentlessly criticizing the opposition while sidestepping bold, visionary messaging. While this tactic may result in a near-political stalemate, it will never generate the passion or momentum required for a decisive victory.

Drawing on conversations with Conservative influencers, media personalities, and party insiders, it’s clear that a fresh, more innovative approach is needed. Here are the five key areas where the party is currently faltering, followed by a roadmap for how Poilievre can seize this moment to reshape Canada’s political landscape.

1. Neglecting the Power of Long-Form Conversations

In an era when authentic, in-depth discussions are more accessible than ever, Poilievre’s absence from influential platforms like Gad Saad’s or Joe Rogan’s podcast is puzzling. Rogan has publicly stated how impressed he is by Pierre, and his audience extends well beyond the United States and into Canada, which comprises millions who crave open dialogue and genuine engagement. High-profile guests—from Bernie Sanders to Elon Musk—have publicly used the show to showcase their ideas. By avoiding such platforms, Poilievre is missing an invaluable opportunity to connect with Canadians, articulate his vision, and demonstrate a willingness to go beyond the scripted soundbite conservatives are playing defence, scared to talk about what they care about for fear of losing.  Nothing could be less strategic. Kamela’s advisors kept her off these podcasts. I wonder if Peierre’s are doing the same, and one should ask oneself if you want to be the top dog, are you acting like a top dog?

2. Failing to Engage Young Voters Effectively

Canadians in their twenties and thirties are increasingly open to conservative ideas but don’t find them resonating in their digital environments. The Conservative Party’s social media outreach often appears stilted and outdated. Poilievre should present a dynamic, relevant message on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube—platforms that young Canadians inhabit. Addressing affordability, job prospects, and meaningful innovation requires more than a press release; it demands a fresh tone and content that feels organic and relatable. The party can transform a historically elusive demographic into passionate supporters by speaking directly to the issues young people face—underemployment, housing unaffordability, and a perceived lack of opportunity. (See my appendix for a sample ad targeting young adults who would thrive on digital media)

3. Lacking Alliances with Accomplished Industry Leaders

Politics cannot transform society in isolation. Surrounded by career politicos and risk-averse advisors, Poilievre misses the chance to align with real-world innovators. Drawing from examples set by leaders like Donald Trump—whose outreach to entrepreneurs and industry captains helped reassure voters of his economic prowess—Poilievre should forge alliances with visionary Canadians with proven track records, like Kevin O’Leary or Chamath Palihapitiya. Such alliances send a clear signal: this is a party unafraid to learn from the best and eager to foster an environment where ideas can flourish. It’s about showcasing a team that can deliver results, not just rhetoric.

4. Overreliance on Attack Strategies

The Conservative Party’s current approach mirrors the Biden campaign’s playbook—aimed squarely at tearing down the opposition rather than uplifting a compelling vision. While highlighting your opponent’s weaknesses may be part of politics, it cannot be the entire strategy. Canadians seek someone who can articulate a clear plan for tackling housing costs, government inefficiency, and other pressing challenges. Banking on Trudeau’s unpopularity alone is shortsighted; voters want to be inspired, not just outraged. Poilievre must move beyond negativity, crafting a forward-looking agenda that appeals to emotion and reason.

5. Ignoring the Influence of Social Desirability Bias

Social desirability bias often distorts polling, as people publicly espouse trendy opinions while privately harbouring different views. Underneath polite discourse, many Canadians feel frustrated by incoherent policies and top-down dictates that stifle real progress. By acknowledging these latent concerns and engaging honestly, the Conservatives can tap into an undercurrent of discontent that seldom emerges in surface-level polling. Authentic engagement means respecting voters’ genuine feelings, even if they aren’t fashionable in elite circles. Meeting the public where they truly stand can win votes where it matters most—at the ballot box.

Conclusion: Embracing Boldness and Authenticity

Pierre Poilievre is poised at a pivotal moment. He can continue playing a cautious “attack and coast” game, hoping that dissatisfaction with the Liberal government will be enough to scrape by. Or he can harness the full potential of modern media, strategic alliances, and authentic outreach—turning an unremarkable campaign into a transformative movement.

Recycled talking points won’t win over young people. Millions of disenchanted Canadians, not just conservatives, await a politician who eschews safe talking heads in favor of open conversations with unconventional hosts. By embracing long-form platforms, forging ties with successful innovators, and offering substantive solutions rather than surface-level attacks, Poilievre can transcend the tired narrative of partisan warfare.

In short, the Conservative Party must adapt to the digital age and the evolving expectations of an increasingly skeptical electorate. By recalibrating their approach and engaging with Canadians on deeper, more authentic terms, Poilievre can shift from being a political adversary into a visionary leader who not only dreams of victory but achieves it by inspiring the nation to dream alongside him.

Bonus track

Sample Advertisement Targeting Young Canadians

Did you believe attending university would teach you how to think, only to find you were told what to think? 

Are you constantly being sold nonsense as logic? Why have you been left behind while the elites in government are taken care of?

Were you promised a high-paying job after graduation, yet you find yourself working in the service industry with no promise of advancement? 

Dreamed of owning a home and living the Canadian dream, but now can’t afford it despite your education?

There’s a reason you’re not living the life you envisioned. Canada has strayed from logical thinking and dynamic action. Instead of celebrating our nation’s achievements, we’re caught in a cycle of self-critique, elevating unproven ideas over time-tested successes.

It’s time to reclaim the Canadian dream, embrace innovation, reward merit, and restore pride in our nation’s accomplishments. Together, we can build a Canada where your efforts lead to tangible rewards and the future you’ve worked hard for becomes a reality.