The podcast episodes discuss how the pro-Palestinian letter at Toronto Metropolitan University sparked a heated debate around whether such expression is protected under academic freedom and free speech, and the implications for students' ability to engage with controversial topics.

The episodes highlight the concerning trend of academic institutions cracking down on pro-Palestinian voices, raising issues around the suppression of free speech on the issue of Palestinian rights. The Decibel episode extensively discusses the debate around the pro-Palestinian letter, while the Democracy Now! episode focuses on the broader crackdown on pro-Palestinian protests on US college campuses.

The episodes reveal the tensions between universities' progressive ideals and their response to controversial student activism, as well as the professional consequences and risk aversion that can come with taking a stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.