Three stories to expand your worldview, delivered daily. Matt Galloway cuts through a sea of choice to bring you stories that transcend the news cycle. Conversations with big thinkers, household names, and people living the news. An antidote to algorithms that cater to what you already know — and a meeting place for diverse perspectives. In its 20 years, the Current has become a go-to place for stories that shape and entertain us. Released daily, Monday to Friday.Some of the topics we’ve covered recently, include: Donald Trump’s threat of tariffs and the impact they could have on Canadian businesses and co...
Meet the 12-year-old flag football world champions from Montreal
A kids’ team from Montreal are now world champions in flag football, an increasingly popular sport set for its Olympic debut in 2028. We meet coach Jamil Springer as well as Leah Kozubek and Jordel Springer, two young players brimming with confidence — who now have the diamond-studded championship rings to match.
Why do some Canadian cities still struggle with snow?
Cities like Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa could be digging out for weeks after an enormous snowfall. Toronto city councillor Josh Matlow says his municipality needs a better snow plan than just waiting for spring to do the work — and, we look at whether technology that heats the streets could solve this problem for good.
Diana Matheson on the long road to women's pro soccer in Canada
The first game is fast approaching for the Northern Super League, Canada's first ever women's professional soccer league. Soccer star and league co-founder Diana Matheson tells us about the work to get the six Canadian teams up and running — and how fans can show up to support them.
The North is open for business — but not for sale, say premiers
Leaders in Canada’s North have a message for U.S. President Donald Trump: the North is not for sale. Matt Galloway talks to Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai, N.W.T. Premier R.J. Simpson, and Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok about what they need from Ottawa to shore up Arctic sovereignty.
What’s behind the rise of a far-right party in Germany?
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is expected to make big gains in Germany’s election this weekend, in what could be the biggest result for a far-right party in that country since the Nazis. Journalist Richard Walker explains the rise of the AfD, and what's at stake in this election.
U.S. eggs are so expensive it feels like ‘eating gold’
Egg prices are now so high in the U.S. that Ohio diner owner Denise McCarrick says it feels like her customers are eating gold. We look at how avian flu is helping to drive up those prices, plus what it means for business — and for breakfast — when omelettes become a luxury item.
Sugarcane brings residential school horrors to Hollywood
In the Oscar-nominated Canadian documentary Sugarcane, Julian Brave Noisecat investigates the horrific history of the residential school his family attended in B.C. He and his co-director Emily Kassie talk to Matt Galloway about a story a community was reluctant to tell, and their joy at seeing a portrait of Indigenous strength celebrated by Hollywood.
Are Canadian politicians shifting strategy because of Trump?
Donald Trump’s threats to annex Canada — and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation — may have shifted the political landscape in this country, with polls suggesting a shrinking lead for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Matt Galloway digs into what that means for a potential federal election with Conservative commentator Kate Harrison, NDP commentator Melanie Richer and Liberal commentator Susan Smith.
Feel uneasy about flying? Here’s what safety experts say
A string of recent plane crashes, including the Delta jet that flipped at Toronto’s Pearson airport, have left many people uneasy about air travel. But an aviation expert tells Matt Galloway that flying is actually safer than ever.
Why students are missing more school
The number of kids missing school has grown since the pandemic, causing alarm bells at school boards across Canada. We look at the complicated web of reasons that students can fall into chronic absenteeism, and what parents and teachers can do to help.
Trump’s halt to USAID means thousands will die: reporter
The Trump administration's abrupt USAID funding freeze has created chaos in global humanitarian work, including efforts to fight diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. The New York Times’ global health reporter Stephanie Nolen lays out the immediate and long-term impacts on people whose health depended on that aid.
What a historic land agreement means for Haida Gwaii
The federal government has recognized the Haida Nation's Aboriginal title over the islands of Haida Gwaii. Matt Galloway visited the archipelago off the coast of B.C. last year, and spoke with three generations of a Haida family who have fought to protect their land and culture.
World’s top hockey teams battle it out at 4 Nations
Tensions are high as Canada, the U.S., Finland and Sweden battle for supremacy at the star-studded 4 Nations Face-Off. Arpon Basu, editor-in-chief of the Athletic Montreal, says this best-on-best hockey exceeded his expectations and is a significant moment for Canadian pride. Today, Canada hits the ice with hopes of securing a spot in Thursday's championship game.
Time to push back on smartphone-based childhoods: psychologist Jonathan Haidt
Jonathan Haidt says technology and social media have rewired our children’s brains, and taken a heavy toll on their mental health. In a conversation from December, the social psychologist spoke to Galloway about his blockbuster book The Anxious Generation and the dangers of a childhood spent on screens.
How to beat insomnia with cognitive behavioural therapy
Faye Dickieson from Alberton, P.E.I., spent 35 years trying to conquer her insomnia with sleeping pills, but they never worked. What ended up helping was something she had never heard of — cognitive behavioural therapy. We hear from sleep experts about why it’s considered the best treatment for sleepless nights and how you can access it.
Vance’s remarks cast uncertain cloud over U.S.-European relations
NATO leaders are shocked by U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance's recent beratement of European allies at the pivotal Munich Security Conference. As the U.S. recedes, there are questions about who will fill the void as Russia continues to flex its influence around the world. Matt Galloway talks to Kerry Buck, former Canadian ambassador to NATO, about the potential impact on Ukraine’s long-term security, the alliance’s unity and what Canada should do next.
Ontario election: Ford’s Washington trip and a ‘poor-taste joke’
Trump has dominated much of the discussion in Ontario’s provincial election, forcing issues like health care and housing to take a backseat. We discuss what’s been happening on the campaign trail, the imminent live debates, and why Premier Doug Ford called this snap election in the first place with our provincial politics panel: the CBC’s Mike Crawley, the Toronto Star’s Robert Benzie and the Globe and Mail's Laura Stone.
Talk to your U.S. friends about Trump’s tariffs, says ex-PM Joe Clark
Former Prime Minister Joe Clark is writing to his friends in the U.S., reminding them of their country’s long friendship with Canada. He’s urging other proud Canadians to rally around the flag and reach out to their American connections, because he says not everyone there supports U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats about tariffs or making Canada the 51st state.
The story behind Canada’s iconic maple leaf flag
Canada’s flag is celebrating its 60th anniversary — at a time when Canadians are feeling especially patriotic. We dip into the archives to hear how the red-and-white maple leaf design came to be.
Are saunas really good for your health?
A sauna feels nice on a cold winter’s day — but what do we know for sure about the benefits? Matt Galloway talks to filmmaker Anna Hints about sauna culture and asks Dr. Peter Attia what sweating it out does for our health and longevity.
Why Trump has South Africa in his sights
U.S. President Donald Trump seems preoccupied with South Africa. He’s offered asylum to white farmers who say they’re facing racial discrimination there, is skipping the G20 in Johannesburg and has restricted all aid to the country. The Globe and Mail's Africa Correspondent Geoffrey York explains why Trump has South Africa in his sights — and how much it has to do with Elon Musk.
Will Ukraine be sidelined in peace negotiations with Russia?
U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that it’s “unrealistic” that Ukraine will regain key land taken by Russia or join NATO as part of any peace settlement. We hear how Ukrainians are reacting to that news, and whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be sidelined after U.S. President Donald Trump’s pledge that peace negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin will start “immediately.”
What’s life like for young adults stuck living with mom and dad?
The high cost of housing (and life in general) is forcing many young people to move back in with their parents, if they ever moved out in the first place. Maclean's journalist Claire Gagne looks at what that means for both the young adults stuck in their childhood bedrooms, and their parents’ hopes and dreams for retirement — and perhaps an empty nest.
A call to boost Canada's productivity — and prosperity
Some tech and business leaders are calling for radical change in Canada's economy to protect against Trump’s tariffs and other future threats. Matt Galloway talks to entrepreneur and former Shopify executive Daniel Debow, who is part of a new group called Build Canada; and Benjamin Bergen, president of the Council of Canadian Innovators.
Turns out whale song and baby talk have something in common
Parents may pleasantly puzzle over the “goos” and “gahs” that their babies make, but now researchers say that baby talk shares patterns with the songs of humpback whales. What can that teach us about how children learn to talk, and how language evolves more broadly?
Why some cities are hiring doctors — and taking on the paperwork
Some Canadian cities are hiring family doctors as municipal employees, taking over the paperwork so the physicians can focus on their patients. Could this novel model help to ease the family doctor shortage across Canada?
Born without an ear, she grew up feeling like a puzzle to be solved
Kate Gies was born missing an ear, and underwent more than a dozen surgeries by the time she was 13. In her new memoir, It Must be Beautiful to be Finished, she writes about growing up feeling that her body was always something that needed to be fixed — and why she finally said enough was enough.
Is recycling actually good for the environment?
A new state-of-the-art recycling centre in Montreal aims to make the process easier, and hopefully greener. We look at how effective recycling actually is — and whether it inadvertently leads consumers to create more waste.
Steel, aluminum tariffs will ‘make America more expensive’ again
Tariffs on steel and aluminum will impact steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie, but the city’s Mayor Matthew Shoemaker says they’re also a surefire way of “making America more expensive again.” Matt Galloway talks to Shoemaker and international trade lawyer John Veroneau about what U.S. President Donald Trump is trying to achieve, and what happened when he imposed similar tariffs in 2018.
From politics to logistics, what will it take to rebuild Gaza?
Israel’s bombardment has left much of Gaza in rubble, and now President Donald Trump is proposing the U.S. should take over the enclave — with no right of return for Palestinians. We discuss what it will take to rebuild Gaza, from fraught politics to the sheer logistics of contending with so much destruction.
Concern as Google ends ban on AI weapons
Google’s parent company Alphabet has reversed a longstanding promise against using AI to develop weapons and surveillance tools. As world leaders gather in Paris to talk about responsible AI development, we look at what role Canada can play in regulating this rapidly advancing technology.
How do we make interprovincial trade easier?
Interprovincial trade barriers on products from beer to toilet seats are getting a rethink in the wake of Trump’s tariff threats. But what would it really take to have Quebec-made products on Ontario store shelves? We hear about a meat producer barred from selling products in part of his own town due to interprovincial regulations, and why past attempts to bring down this bureaucracy have been unsuccessful.
The New Yorker magazine turns 100
The New Yorker magazine is 100 years old this week — no small feat in a struggling news industry. The magazine’s editor, David Remnick, tells Matt Galloway about the role of longform journalism in an increasingly fast-paced world, and how his publication is covering Trump 2.0.
Want to age well? A prescription for exercise might help
Doctors should prescribe exercise to elderly patients more often in order to stave off chronic conditions and mortality, according to a recent study. We hear from a 93-year-old, her trainer and the study’s author about why age and frailty are a reason to keep moving, rather than avoid exercise.
Library budget cuts highlight divisions in an Alberta town
A small town in Alberta is split over budget cuts to a public library, with some residents saying those cuts are motivated by opposition to a Gay-Straight Alliance that holds meetings there. The Fifth Estate went to Valleyview, Alta., to investigate.
Elon Musk’s government cuts face growing resistance
There's a growing backlash against Elon Musk’s sweeping cuts to U.S. government agencies, from dismissing civil servants to threats to shut down the Department of Education. We look at how the unelected billionaire’s Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, has been empowered by President Donald Trump — and why some critics are calling his actions a constitutional crisis.
Why steroids might not give you that ‘superhero’ body you see online
Bodybuilder Greg Doucette says he regrets taking anabolic steroids for a decade, but at the time he felt his goals weren’t achievable without them. He talks to Matt Galloway about the growing pressure young men feel to use drugs to achieve the physiques they see on social media, and what habitual steroid abuse does to your body.
Windsor’s workers in the firing line of Trump’s tariffs
Thousands of Windsor’s autoworkers have been rattled by U.S. President Donald Trump's claim that America doesn't need Canadian cars. Matt Galloway spent a morning at the Backroad Cafe in Windsor — across the street from the Stellantis auto plant — to talk to workers worried about the threat that Trump’s tariffs pose to their livelihoods in the auto industry, as well as the region’s substantial agricultural sector.
Windsor and Detroit are old friends. Could tariffs change that?
Donald Trump’s threats have left many Canadians angry at the U.S., but things are more complicated in Windsor, a city full of people deeply connected to their neighbours across the river in Detroit. Matt Galloway went there to talk to folks on both sides of the border about their shared history and community — and the future of that friendship.
She found beautiful art in a bargain bin. How’d it get there?
When Sonja Krawesky found a pair of bright and beautiful sculptures in a bargain bin at a Hamilton, Ont. store, she knew there had to be a story behind them. Her quest to find out where they came from led to a new friend — and a lesson about the kindness of strangers.
Liberals were out of touch after pandemic: Karina Gould
Liberal leadership candidate Karina Gould says her government was out of touch with Canadians who were struggling in the aftermath of the pandemic. She talks to Matt Galloway about what responsibility she bears as a cabinet minister at that time, and how she'd rebuild trust if she becomes party leader.
Trump’s threats are a big boost for patriotism in Canada
The threat of tariffs and Donald Trump’s jibes about Canada becoming "the 51st state” have sparked a surge of unity and patriotism in this country. Author Andrew Potter and entrepreneur Arlene Dickinson discuss what it means to be Canadian in this moment of uncertainty.
An asteroid may hit in 2032. How can astronomers stop it?
An asteroid the size of a football field is hurtling towards our planet, with a roughly 1.6 per cent chance of impact in 2032. Those may seem like good odds, but it’s prompted astronomers to issue the first ever Potential Asteroid Impact Notification. We look at what’s being done to avert catastrophe — and what researchers are learning from a different asteroid, which might contain clues about how life developed here on Earth.
The hippie trail trip that changed Rick Steves’ life
Rick Steves had his first puff of a joint in Afghanistan while he was travelling the Hippie Trail in 1978, the overland route from Istanbul to Kathmandu. The travel writer and entrepreneur talks to Matt Galloway about how that trip made him think about the world differently — and why he says others should seek out mind-expanding travel, too.
Balancing cancer care with quality of life
Cancer treatments are designed to extend a person’s life, but can be so debilitating that some patients can’t truly enjoy the time they gain. A new study published in Lancet Oncology is calling for treatments that take quality of life into account, balancing living longer with feeling better.
How a camera opened Eldred Allen’s eyes to Labrador’s beauty
Picking up a camera taught Eldred Allen to look at his home in Labrador differently, from its dramatic coastlines to the shimmering northern lights. The self-taught Inuk photographer shares some portraits of his home, with a warning that its beauty is under threat from climate change.
Trying to ‘Buy Canadian’? Here’s what to check at the store
“Buy Canadian!” became a rallying cry under the threat of Trump’s punishing tariffs, but how easy is it to find Canadian products on supermarket shelves? And what’s the difference between something labelled “Made in Canada” versus “Product of Canada”? Matt Galloway takes a trip to the grocery store to see what people are putting in their baskets, even with the tariffs on hold.
Canada will prevail against Trump tariffs: finance minister
Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc says he’s convinced Canada will prevail against Trump’s sweeping tariffs, but admits things could get rough in the meantime. He explains what the federal government is doing to win this fight and support Canadians, an effort that global trade expert Carlo Dade calls a “really difficult balancing act.”
Is Team Canada truly united against Trump’s tariffs?
Are Canada’s political and business leaders united in the face of U.S. tariffs? The Globe and Mail's Stephanie Levitz and the Toronto Star’s Ryan Tumilty take a good look at Team Canada.
With online divorce, Estonia goes fully digital
Estonia has digitized all government services, from voting to paying taxes and even getting divorced. We look at what it would take to bring that online efficiency to Canada.
Listeners share stories of quitting alcohol
Listeners had a big response to our conversations on alcohol and grey-area drinking, and helping a loved one drink less. We read some of your letters, and call up a listener who says it’s been scary to take those first steps into sobriety.
Tariffs like a ‘circular firing squad,’ says Windsor mayor
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens explains how closely his city is linked to Detroit, its U.S. neighbour across the river — and why he thinks nobody wins in a trade war between the two countries.
Following today's news? We recommend World Report
As you know, important news can happen on the weekend when we at The Current are not around. For breaking updates on big stories, like the one today, we’d like to point you over to our colleagues at World Report. They’ll catch you up on the day’s news in just 10 minutes. Consider following them as a staple in your podcast diet. https://link.mgln.ai/BBMiEp
People hate speed cameras. Do they actually make roads safer?
Vandals are targeting speed cameras across Canada — cutting them down, throwing them in duck ponds, or even shooting at them. As Alberta now moves to scrap the cameras on many highways, we look at the fight over photo radar and whether it actually makes streets safer.
Donald Trump wants our water. Can Canada protect it?
U.S. President Donald Trump wants to tap into Canada’s water, saying there’s a “very large faucet” that can be turned on to drain water from north to south and help with American shortages. We look at the question of water sovereignty — and whether Canada is ready to protect its resources.
This woman is grieving her dad through his 10,000 records
Jula inherited 10,000 vinyl records from her dad when he died. Now, she’s listening through them to make sense of her grief — and sharing that connection to her father with millions of people on her social media account @soundwavesoffwax.
This U.S. economist is pushing for tariffs on Canada
Economist Oren Cass has been pushing for a new economic strategy in Washington, and supports the sweeping tariffs that could be imposed on Canada this weekend. He says those tariffs will hurt in the short term, but thinks they’re ultimately necessary to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. — and rebuild the U.S. trade relationship with the rest of the world.
What the science says about fluoride in drinking water
Montreal is removing fluoride from drinking water, while Calgary is putting it back after a pause of more than a decade. We look at what the science says — and the direct influence of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who got into heated exchanges at his confirmation hearing to become U.S. health secretary on Wednesday.
The ‘people’s bid’ to buy TikTok — and rewild the internet
American billionaire Frank McCourt wants to buy TikTok in the U.S., with a plan that would rewire the app’s addictive qualities and give users more control over their experience and data. We look at the bid — and the case for building a new and improved internet.
Trump deportation threats open up old wounds in Mississippi
Hundreds of undocumented migrants were arrested in ICE workplace raids in Mississippi in 2019, resulting in deportations that split families apart. In his documentary Practically Mexico Now, the CBC’s John Chipman went there to meet people still living with the fallout, amid fresh fears over U.S. President Donald Trump's threat of mass deportations.
The CBC is facing an ‘existential threat,’ says new CEO
Marie-Philippe Bouchard has taken over as CBC/Radio-Canada’s new president and CEO at a time when Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and others are calling for the public broadcaster to be defunded. She talks to Matt Galloway about proving to Canadians that the CBC is a vital part of their communities, and making sure she’s not the president who turns the lights out as she leaves.
What Canada needs to do about foreign interference
Justice Marie-Josée Hogue found no evidence of traitors in parliament, but her final report on foreign interference highlights several other threats to Canada’s democracy. We unpack the vulnerabilities she's identified, from disinformation on social media to party leaders who have so far refused to get security clearance.
Why did AI chatbot DeepSeek stun the tech world?
DeepSeek, an AI chatbot from China, rattled the stock market this week when its sudden rise caught the tech industry off guard. Tech reporter Rashi Shrivastava explains what makes it different — and why she’s been hesitant to test it out herself.
Stretched Alberta doctors told to drop healthy patients
Doctors struggling to care for all of their patients in Alberta have been advised to drop the healthy ones, to make sure they have time for those with the greatest health needs. The new guidelines are drafted with safety in mind, but critics and frustrated patients say it’s a sad indicator of how stretched the country’s health care system has become.
How magic sparked Joe Schwarcz’s passion for science
Joe Schwarcz has made it his life's work to debunk misinformation and snake oil salespeople in the scientific world. Now, the director of the McGill Office for Science and Society has been named to the Order of Canada.
Will The Substance change how we talk about women and aging?
In the Oscar-nominated movie The Substance, Demi Moore plays an aging star who takes a black market drug to unlock a younger version of self. We look at why the movie has struck a chord in a society that still sees age, particularly for women, as a liability.
Indigenous leader Bill Wilson’s legacy, told by his daughters
Hereditary chief Bill Wilson, who helped to reshape Indigenous rights in Canada, has died. Matt Galloway discusses his legacy with his daughters, Kory Wilson, chair of the B.C. First Nations Justice Council; and Jody Wilson-Raybould, the former federal minister of justice.
The Current Introduces | Uncover: Sea of Lies
A body is pulled from the ocean, and a race against time to capture one of the world's most wanted criminals begins.Uncover: Sea of LIes is the story of a con man who couldn't stop lying. A tale of murder, stolen identities, fine art, a diaper bag stuffed with gold bars, and a crime solved by a Rolex watch. From rural Canada to coastal England, he lied and deceived at every turn.Award-winning podcaster Sam Mullins (Chameleon: Dr. Dante & Wild Boys) takes you inside the world of a devious scammer
Keith Pears thrilled to cook for Canada at culinary Olympics
Chef Keith Pears is leading Team Canada at the Bocuse d'Or, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary competitions. He says he can’t wait to get in the kitchen and “just cook his heart out.”
How Canadian businesses are bracing for Trump tariffs
Donald Trump says the U.S. doesn’t need Canadian exports — is he right? We look at how interconnected the two economies are, and what businesses on this side of the border are doing to prepare for the U.S. president’s threat of 25 per cent tariffs.
Why GoFundMe campaigns often aren’t fair
Crowdfunding campaigns have raised big money for the survivors of the L.A. fires and other disasters — but not everyone gets equal support. We look at why some campaigns raise more money than their organizers know what to do with, while others struggle for attention.
Chrystia Freeland’s pitch to replace Trudeau
Chrystia Freeland says she’s not the preferred candidate of the “Ottawa elites” in the race to replace Justin Trudeau — and argues that shows she represents the change that Canadians want. She talks to Matt Galloway about returning the Liberal Party to grassroots control, and her plan to tackle Trump’s tariff threats.
Trump is pushing for big changes. Can he deliver them?
Donald Trump signed executive orders on everything from immigration, to trade, to trans rights in his first week back in the Oval Office. We ask two political reporters to unpack the big changes for the U.S. — and the wider world — and whether Trump can really bring them about.
The fight over rebuilding Jasper after devastating wildfires
Hundreds of families who lost their homes in Jasper’s wildfires are still waiting for temporary housing six months later, while various levels of government fight about how and where to rebuild. What needs to change in how we respond to increasingly frequent and devastating wildfires?
Why is a trip to the vet so expensive in Canada?
Some pet owners are abandoning their animals because they can’t keep up with the high cost of veterinary care and medications. A CBC/Radio-Canada investigation looked into why vet bills are so expensive in Canada, and found big corporations buying up independent clinics — and a lack of competition due to limits on who can buy and sell pet medications.
More young men are getting vasectomies. Why?
Ian Clements got himself an unusual 30th birthday present: a vasectomy. He’s among a growing number of young men going under the knife because they don’t want kids, pointing to reasons including the economy or the threat of climate change.
Where’s the best place to vacation in Canada?
Would you rather visit the expansive beauty of Canada’s Arctic, or watch humpbacks breach as you ramble along Newfoundland’s coast? Perhaps you’d be surprised by the Prairies, or get lost in rainforests of Haida Gwaii, the “Galápagos of the North”? Robin Esrock, author of The Great Canadian Bucket List, shares his top picks for holidays closer to home.
Gazans return home to search rubble for loved ones
Palestinian Akram Said says Gazans are slowly returning to their homes, to search the rubble for loved ones killed by Israel’s airstrikes. Said shares why he stayed in Gaza for the last 15 months, and what the ceasefire means for humanitarian aid reaching those who need it most.
Migrants living in fear of Trump’s mass deportation threat
Undocumented migrants in the U.S. are bracing for mass deportations threatened by President Donald Trump. Matt Galloway talks to a young man terrified his family will be scooped up by immigration officials, and a Trump supporter who says the deportations are necessary.
Houston halved homelessness. Will that plan work in Winnipeg?
Winnipeg has a bold new plan to move people out of encampments and into housing, modelled on a strategy that reduced homelessness by 60 per cent in Houston, Texas. But one critic warns the plan involves moving people out of public housing to make space in a tight rental market — and could put a cohort of lower-income people at risk.
How a bowl of borscht helped a writer confront the Holocaust
Bonny Reichert grew up hearing her father’s stories of the Holocaust, and finding comfort in sharing traditional recipes with him. The Canadian journalist-turned-chef shares her dad’s story, and the trauma she herself carries, in the new memoir How To Share An Egg.
Meet the Syrian women demanding a role in the country’s future
After 13 years in exile, Alma Salem kissed the ground when she finally returned to Syria, after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Matt Galloway talks to the political activist and two other Syrian women — human rights advocates Azza Kondakji and Noura Aljizawi — about their hopes for rebuilding their country, and why they say the role of women in that future is non-negotiable.
The Current Introduces | The Con: Kaitlyn’s Baby
Kaitlyn Braun, a pregnant young woman in crisis, takes dozens of birth workers through an escalating series of disasters – rape, baby loss, and even a coma. One by one, the doulas struggle to support her and grieve with her, and even save her life as they’re led down a distressing path. And then the truth comes out.In this six-part true crime series, Sarah Treleaven untangles a complex web of lies and deception to ask who Kaitlyn really is and why she did the things that she did. Cases like thes
Scott Oake lost his son to drugs. He wants to help other families
The broadcaster Scott Oake lost his son Bruce to a drug overdose more than 10 years ago, and has worked tirelessly since to help other families avoid that same heartbreak. He talks to Matt Galloway about opening a recovery centre named after Bruce, and his new book For the Love of a Son.
The fraudster who faked multiple pregnancies
Kaitlyn Braun convinced dozens of birth doulas that she was pregnant, claiming she was suffering through an escalating series of disasters: rape, baby loss, and even a coma. Sarah Treleaven tells Galloway about the complex web of lies she untangles in the new CBC podcast The Con: Kaitlyn's Baby.
Unravelling the mystery of monarch butterfly migration
It’s been 50 years since two Canadian scientists solved a great mystery: where do monarch butterflies go during winter? But while they unlocked how these tiny creatures fly thousands of kilometres every year, there’s still parts of this natural wonder that we don’t understand.
Baker Daniel Leader on the pleasure of sourdough
The baker Daniel Leader is a pioneer of artisanal breadmaking, but he says his early loaves were more like paperweights. In a conversation from last month, Leader shares what he learned about his craft along the way, and why baking bread can feel like meditation.
‘Shock and awe’ expected on Trump’s first day in office
Donald Trump is set to sign as many as 100 executive orders on his first day in office. We discuss the potential fallout if he enacts campaign pledges on mass deportations and tariffs that could devastate Canada’s economy.
Trump's second inauguration draws celebration — and protest
Matt Galloway talks to people who have travelled to Washington for Donald Trump’s inauguration, in celebration — or in protest — of his second term as president.
TikTok U.S. ban expected this weekend
Tik Tok could be banned in the U.S. this weekend, sparking panic among influencers who make their living from the social media app. Journalist Emily Baker White explains why it’s drawn the ire of U.S. lawmakers.
Understanding obesity, beyond BMI
Doctors are proposing a new definition of obesity that goes beyond measuring BMI. We talk to Dr. Sanjeev Sockalingam about how the new diagnosis, and drugs like Ozempic, could change the conversation around body size and health.
The Instagram account sharing quirky Canadiana
New Brunswicker John Batt is the brains behind popular Instagram account @Canada.gov.ca, sharing some wild stories of Canadiana. He shares some of those stories with us, from the band that got Neil Young signed to Motown to a strangely controversial, very delicious pickle known across the Maritimes.
The ‘Hunger Games’ of finding a family doctor
Jacqueline Simoes lined up for hours in the snow for the chance of registering with a new family doctor coming to Walkerton, Ont. earlier this week. But so did more than a thousand others.
Smith splits from other premiers on Trump’s tariffs
The prime minister and premiers said Wednesday that they will do all they can to stop Donald Trump’s threatened tariffs, with only Alberta Premier Danielle Smith refusing to sign the joint statement. We discuss whether a unified Canadian response to the crisis is possible with our national affairs panel: the CBC’s Kathleen Petty, the Toronto Star’s Ryan Tumilty; and The Globe and Mail's Stephanie Levitz.
The KGB techniques that helped Putin rise to power
Russian President Vladimir Putin once won over George W. Bush by appealing to his Christianity, and tried to intimidate Angela Merkel with her fear of dogs. The CBC’s Terence McKenna explores how KGB techniques helped his rise to power in the new documentary Putin's Journey.
Dozens of bodies pulled from mine after months-long standoff
Hundreds of miners have been trapped in a South African goldmine for months, after entering to excavate illegally. But while police say they refused to surface over fears of arrest, the workers’ families say they were simply too weak to leave after authorities cut off food and water. Journalist Carien Du Plessis explains how this stand-off came about, and why a rescue operation ended abruptly this week with dozens of bodies being pulled from the mine.
Will the Israel-Hamas ceasefire hold?
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is expected to go into effect Sunday, with the phased release of hostages and an end to 15 months of Israel’s bombardment in Gaza. Matt Galloway discusses what it will take to sustain the ceasefire with Israeli journalist Amir Tibon and Palestinian-Canadian lawyer Diana Buttu.
Why big banks are backing out of climate initiatives
A growing number of banks and asset managers are pulling out of climate initiatives, designed to gear investment practices towards net-zero goals. What’s driving the exodus, and what will it mean for efforts to curb climate change?
This woman woke up blind after drinks tainted with methanol
Ashley King woke up blind just a few days after her drinks were tainted with methanol during a night out on vacation in Bali. She’s sharing her story, and warning others of the fatal consequences of methanol poisoning, in a new podcast called Static: A Party Girl's Memoir.
Will more drones soon be whizzing past your window?
New regulations around drones will soon make it easier for Canadian pilots to take to the skies. We look at how the devices are already used for things like moving organs for transplant between hospitals — and the implications for privacy if more and more flying cameras are buzzing past your yard or balcony.
The Current Introduces: On Drugs
On Drugs looks through the lenses of history, pop culture and personal experience to understand how drugs have shaped our world. Because even if it’s just caffeine or ibuprofen, there’s a good chance you’re on drugs right now. More episodes of On Drugs are available at: https://link.mgln.ai/e4ovfN
Order of Canada: Holocaust survivor Pinchas Gutter
Pinchas Gutter has been named to the Order of Canada for decades of work in Holocaust education. The concentration camp survivor is in his 90s, and says his work is far from over.
How noticing nature can improve your mood
When was the last time you stopped to notice the animal tracks in the snow, or listened for the chirp of a bird in the stillness of winter? Edmonton researcher Holli-Anne Passmore wants people to stop and notice nature, saying that the emotions evoked can improve our sense of well-being.
Why marine life is making a comeback
From humpback whales to bottlenose dolphins, there’s been an uptick in sightings of marine life around the world. Biologists and marine ecologists say it's part of a resurgence of life in the oceans, the result of decades of global conservation efforts.
As L.A. wildfires rage, so do conspiracy theories
Wildfires are still raging in California, but officials are also fighting the rapid spread of misinformation and even conspiracy theories. We hear how efforts are being hampered by these false claims, including one Hollywood actor’s allegation that the fires are intended to clear people out of the state.
Born to climb: Mountaineers named to Order of Canada
Barry Blanchard and Chic Scott are two world-renowned mountaineers who have just been appointed to the Order of Canada. They tell us about feeling like they were put on this earth to climb, and surviving a death-defying ascent with an avalanche that continued for 27 minutes.
Pornhub blocks access over new age verification laws
Pornhub has blocked access to its own site in several U.S. states, where new laws require pornography sites to verify the age of their users. We look at whether age verification is an effective way to protect children, and why critics argue those laws infringe on free speech.
Migrant caregiver ‘in limbo’ after years working in Canada
Teresa Andrade says she’s living in limbo after the federal government cancelled immigration programs that helped caregivers secure permanent residency in Canada. Andrade came from the Philippines in 2019 to work as a live-in nanny, but says she and many other caregivers may now need to leave Canada — or take the risk of staying here illegally.
Prorogation angers father who lost son to online sextortion
Carl Burke’s teenage son Harry died by suicide shortly after he fell victim to sexual extortion online. But proposed legislation aimed at addressing dangers on social media — the Online Harms Act — may now not become law because parliament has been prorogued until March. Burke tells Matt Galloway that playing politics shouldn’t get in the way of protecting children. For Linda Debassige, grand council chief of the Anishinabek Nation, it’s an embarrassment for Canada that a bill to ensure clean dr
‘Grey-area’ drinking, and asking hard questions about alcohol
In the new season of CBC podcast On Drugs, Geoff Turner examines his own relationship with alcohol, and how a deeply personal tragedy led him to ask who he would be without it.
How a suitcase in Tokyo held the story of a girl killed in Auschwitz
Former CBC Radio producer Karen Levine has been named to the Order of Canada for her groundbreaking journalism. We listen to her 2001 documentary Hana's Suitcase. It tells the story of a girl murdered in Auschwitz in 1944, and how her suitcase turned up in Tokyo 57 years later.
He was fleeing the L.A. wildfires. Here’s why he turned back
Orly Israel was stuck in traffic trying to escape the wildfires ripping through Los Angeles, when he decided to turn around. He tells us what it was like trying to save his home from the roaring flames — staying until the last possible second.
Tim Caulfield on finding truth amid the information chaos
How do you figure out what's true, in a time when misinformation is rampant? Timothy Caulfield looks at how our information systems became so chaotic in his new book The Certainty Illusion: What You Don't Know and Why It Matters.
How should Canada respond to Trump’s takeover threats?
Donald Trump is sounding increasingly serious about making Canada a part of the U.S., saying he’d use “economic force” to make this country the 51st state. Matt Galloway talks to former ambassador Jon Allen about how seriously we should take these threats, and how Ottawa should respond.
Aura Kagan on her work helping people with aphasia
Dr. Aura Kagan has been named to the Order of Canada for her work transforming the lives of people with aphasia, a language disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate.
The stories of undocumented migrants in Canada
There could be as many as half a million undocumented migrants in Canada, living and working in the shadows of society. Some of those migrants have shared their stories with the CBC’s Lyndsay Duncombe, from the challenges of daily life to their fight for legal status.
Why is Elon Musk meddling in world politics?
Elon Musk recently pushed the false claim that the U.K.’s prime minister is "deeply complicit in mass rapes," and suggested the country needed to be liberated by the U.S. That’s just one example of how the tech billionaire is using his position and influence to meddle in international politics — what’s his endgame?
Lorin MacDonald, Colin Clarke named to Order of Canada
Matt Galloway speaks with two incredible Canadians recently appointed to the Order of Canada. Lorin MacDonald has championed disability access and inclusion; and Colin Clarke is an educator who has shared his passion for music with young people.
A rogue wave nearly killed him. Here’s why they’re so deadly
Noah Mintz was only in knee-deep water when he was almost paralyzed by a rogue wave, rising suddenly out of the ocean at twice the size of the waves around it. We learn more about these deadly walls of water in the documentary The Wave.
Trump threatens to retake Panama Canal
U.S. president-elect Donald Trump is threatening to retake control of the Panama Canal, but Panama's president says it's not for sale. We look at how this critical artery of global trade has once again become a centre of geopolitical tension.
Did South Korea’s president fall down a ‘YouTube rabbit hole’?
Protestors in South Korea are demanding the arrest of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who declared martial law and is now accused of committing insurrection — with some observers pointing the finger of blame at what he was watching on YouTube.
Trudeau’s stubbornness helped his rise — and his fall, says former adviser
Justin Trudeau’s stubbornness and self-confidence helped his rise to power, but have served him “incredibly poorly on the way down,” says Gerald Butts, who was once one of the prime minister’s closest advisers. Matt Galloway discusses Trudeau’s resignation and legacy with Butts and Monte Solberg, a former Conservative cabinet minister under Stephen Harper.
How to help a loved one drink less
Maureen Palmer’s partner Mike Pond has been an alcoholic for decades, but the couple say trying to quit completely never worked — and that focusing on abstinence could be doing more harm than good for some people who struggle with alcohol addiction. In their new book, You Don’t Have to Quit, they offer 20 strategies to help a loved one drink less, informed by Pond’s experience of being mostly sober.
Extraordinary Canadians named to Order of Canada
We get to know a few of the extraordinary people just named to the Order of Canada: hate crime expert Barbara Perry, food insecurity expert Valerie Tarasuk and artist Ruth Abernethy.
Justin Trudeau will resign. What happens next?
Justin Trudeau says he will resign as prime minister after the Liberal Party picks a new leader. Matt Galloway discusses what happens next — and when Canadians can expect an election — with former Conservative strategist Chad Rogers, Liberal strategist Susan Smith and Brad Lavigne, a former national director of the NDP.
Finding stories of progress in times of crisis
The news these days can feel relentlessly grim, but there are stories of progress and positivity buried in the bad. Angus Hervey, editor of a website called Fix The News, shares some of those stories and explains why the audience also has a role in helping the media to highlight them.
Why the fight for women’s rights is still far from over
Journalist Elizabeth Renzetti says the fight for women's rights is far from over, from persistent wage inequality to a global backlash over reproductive rights. In October, she spoke to Rebecca Zandbergen about her book What She Said: Conversations About Equality.
This B.C. mom hired a PI to follow her teen's drug dealer
Julie Nystrom was so worried that her teenage daughter would die from a drug overdose, she hired a private investigator to track down the man selling her drugs. In The Current’s documentary Everybody Loves Jay, which first aired last month, she said she wants police to do more to protect teens against dealers and the toxic drug supply.
How DeMar DeRozan changed mental health in sports
DeMar DeRozan changed the conversation around mental health in basketball, starting with a single tweet about his own struggles with depression. In September, the former Toronto Raptor spoke to Matt Galloway about why he now sees vulnerability as a form of strength — and why he “couldn't stand” Kyle Lowry when they first met.
What we know about the deadly attack in New Orleans
At least 15 people are dead and dozens injured after a man drove a truck into a crowd celebrating the new year in New Orleans. The Washington Post’s Ben Brasch shares what we know about the attack, which the FBI are investigating as an act of terrorism.
Chef Chuck Hughes on cooking for — and with — his kids
Acclaimed Montreal chef Chuck Hughes never really cooked at home before he had kids — but now he's conjuring up recipes like hotdog bun French toast with his mini sous-chefs. He shares some recipes that your kids might love in his book Home Cooking: Family Favourite Recipes From My Kitchen To Yours.
Controlling your money, so your money doesn’t control you
Jessica Moorhouse says the way you manage — or mismanage — your money could have roots in your childhood, and it’s not just about willpower or responsible choices. The financial educator explores how to break those cycles in her book Everything But Money: The Hidden Barriers Between You and Financial Freedom.
The Current in Saskatoon, the city that punches well above its weight
Saskatoon is a hub of creativity and culture, but is also grappling with the same problems roiling other Canadian cities. In November, Matt Galloway hosted a special show at a packed Broadway Theatre to meet the people that make life great in the Paris of the Prairies.First up, singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker performs some music from his new album Great Big Sky, and shares how he recently found out he has a new fan: King Charles III.Then, literary power couple Yann Martel and Alice Kuipers onl
How Mark Critch got an accidental exclusive with Justin Trudeau
Comedian Mark Critch has landed a major political exclusive: an interview with Justin Trudeau, recorded shortly before the prime minister cancelled all his other year-end interviews. Critch shares what Trudeau said about his political future; his Mar-a-Lago dinner with Trump; and why Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre refused the invite for a chat on This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
The Prairie diving club producing Olympians
Steve and Mary Carroll set up the Saskatoon Diving Club 20 years ago, and this year they sent two divers to the Olympics. In November, Matt Galloway took in the view from the 10-metre board, and heard how this landlocked city built a world-class diving program.
Why this journalist ranked all 153 of Willie Nelson's albums
The great Willie Nelson released his 153rd album this year — and shows no signs of slowing down, even at 91 years of age. Music journalist John Spong has ranked all of Nelson’s records and explores the artist’s story in the podcast, One By Willie.
How seven fishermen survived 52 hours lost at sea
When seven fishermen disappeared off Newfoundland’s coast this summer, everyone feared the worst. But as hours turned into days and hope dwindled, the men were found — alive. The ‘Lucky 7’ share their harrowing brush with death in our documentary Lost at Sea.
What can today’s leaders learn from Jimmy Carter?
Today’s world leaders could learn a thing or two from Jimmy Carter, says political analyst Aaron David Miller. He tells guest host Susan Ormiston that the former U.S. president — who died Sunday — never used his office to further his own interests or indulge his own vanity.
Is there more to doppelgängers than similar looks?
Doppelgängers used to be considered a sign of bad luck, but now online groups and lookalike competitions can help you find your dead ringer. We hear about the fascinating experience of coming face-to-face with your lookalike — and whether the similarities are ever more than skin deep.
2024 was a wild ride in Ottawa. What’s coming in 2025?
Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government will likely face a non-confidence motion early in the new year, which could mean a federal election in the coming months. The Globe and Mail’s Stephanie Levitz and the Toronto Star’s Ryan Tumilty unpack an explosive year in Ottawa — and what lies ahead.
The wild stories buried in Jeanne Beker’s closet
Fashion journalist Jeanne Beker pulls some wild stories out of her closet in her book Heart on My Sleeve, from chatting to famous musicians in the bathtub to walking out on an interview with Iggy Pop. In a conversation from October, she told Matt Galloway about the clothing items that tell the story of her life and career, from a yellow bikini top to a boxy Chanel dress.
Making hockey accessible for everyone
The rink is like a second home for some during the hockey season, but many Canadians still face obstacles when it comes to getting on the ice. In his documentary from earlier this month, Douglas Gelevan explores what it would take for everyone to be able to play Canada’s national winter game.
How wars around the world changed in 2024
From recent drone and missile attacks in Ukraine, to tens of thousands dead in Gaza, and the fall of the Assad regime in Syria — it’s been a turbulent year in wars worldwide. Journalists covering the Middle East and Ukraine join guest host Susan Ormiston to reflect on ongoing conflicts worldwide.
Baker Daniel Leader on the rise of breadmaking
The baker Daniel Leader is a pioneer of artisanal breadmaking, but he says his early loaves were more like paperweights. In a conversation from earlier this month, Leader shares what he learned about his craft along the way, and why baking bread can feel like meditation.
Is technology taking the place of religion in our lives?
Our daily interactions with technology are looking more and more like a religious act, according to Greg Epstein, a humanist chaplain at Harvard University. He talks to guest host Mark Kelley about his new book Tech Agnostic, and whether the tech that surrounds us is worthy of our faith.
Newly minted inductees to the Order of Canada
Last week, the Governor General made 88 new appointments to the Order of Canada. Heather Rankin, singer-songwriter and member of the award-winning band The Rankin Family, Maureen Jennings, author of Murdoch Mysteries, and Zulfiqar Bhutta, a leader in advancing maternal and child health, tell guest host Mark Kelley what it means to be recognized as a gamechanger in their community and beyond.
A banner year for women in sports
From Caitlin Clark to Summer McIntosh to the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s launch — 2024 was a transformative year for women in sports. We dig into what it took to arrive at this moment, the big business of women’s games and what’s ahead for female athletes.
Historian Yuval Noah Harari on the “unknown unknown” of AI
Historian Yuval Noah Harari says AI is the first technology that is not just a tool, but “an active agent” doing things we didn’t anticipate and might lose control over. The bestselling big thinker spoke to Matt Galloway in front of a live audience in Toronto this September about AI’s possible consequences, and why humans are smart enough to put a man on the moon but too stupid to achieve peace on Earth. Listen to the rest of the conversation here and here.
Will the Windsor-made Dodge Charger EV be a hit?
Electric Dodge Charger Daytonas will start rolling off the production line at a Windsor, Ont. assembly plant sometime this month. It’s the first electric passenger car to be mass-produced in Canada — but can the classic muscle car with a twist help pave the way to a sustainable future? The union president representing workers at the Windsor Assembly Plant and an auto industry journalist discuss the new car’s potential.
How to make more sustainable fashion choices
The fashion industry is one of the world’s biggest polluters, with millions of tonnes of textiles ending up in landfills every year. We talk to people about how to change that, from a simple “closet audit” at home, to making retailers responsible for the entire life cycle of their garments.
The Goosinator chasing away bothersome birds
The Goosinator is a bright orange, very noisy device that herds troublesome geese in Lethbridge, Alta., where the birds are staying longer as winter months get warmer. The CBC’s Allison Dempster looks at how different parts of the country are trying to manage that problem — and shares a classic story of one man’s encounter with this “gangster of nature.”
Manitoba tries to recruit U.S. doctors worried about Trump
Manitoba is trying to attract U.S. physicians who might be uncomfortable with Donald Trump’s incoming presidency. We talk to a family doctor who already made the move, and look at how other provinces are trying to lure doctors back into family medicine.
Is Canada just three companies in a trench coat?
From groceries to air travel to phone providers, many services in Canada are controlled by just a handful of companies. We look at why that lack of competition has been able to take hold, and what can be done to get a better deal for consumers.
‘Mirror life’ research poses risk to all life on Earth, scientists warn
Scientists are sounding the alarm about research into synthetic organisms known as “mirror life,” warning of an unprecedented risk to all life on Earth. Synthetic biologist Kate Adamala explains what these mirror molecules are, why researchers wanted to explore them — and why the risks might be too great.
Fartcoin? Bitcoin? Why young people are betting big on crypto
Younger people are turning to cryptocurrency because they feel left behind by the traditional economy, say some experts. We break down how it all works — from bitcoin to fartcoin — and look at why crypto has surged since Donald Trump won the U.S. election.
Merry Thriftmas! The art and appeal of giving second-hand gifts
Some people are exploring thrifting to find the perfect gift this holiday season, hoping to save money and cut down consumer waste. We get some tips from expert thrifters.
A U.K. politician mocked the sandwich. Cue a national debate
British politician Kemi Badenoch got some salty responses when she decried the humble sandwich as "not a real food.” London chef and sandwich shop owner Max Halley shares why people flocked to the food’s defence, and what he’d serve Badenoch to change her mind.
Why stuffed animals appeal so much to kids — and adults
The stuffed toys called Jellycats are one the most sought-after items this Christmas, fetching high prices and even inspiring large-scale theft. Max Genecov, a proud stuffed animal collector, explains why Jellycats and other plushie pals have such an appeal for kids and adults alike.
Trudeau is in a ‘delusional, false reality,’ says Liberal MP
Liberal MPs Wayne Long and Chad Collins say that the prime minister has lost the confidence of his caucus — and must resign. They talk to Matt Galloway about the leadership crisis, and why Chrystia Freeland got a standing ovation after her shock resignation.
Time to push back on smartphone-based childhoods: Jonathan Haidt
Jonathan Haidt says technology and social media have rewired our children’s brains, and taken a heavy toll on their mental health. The social psychologist talks to Matt Galloway about his blockbuster book The Anxious Generation and the dangers of a childhood spent on screens.
Freeland resigns with ‘maximum chaos,’ ‘maximum damage’
Finance minister Chrystia Freeland’s shock resignation has heaped pressure on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down. The CBC’s Rosemary Barton and the Globe and Mail's Stephanie Levitz discuss Freeland’s blistering resignation letter, and why it seemed designed to inflict “maximum damage” on the prime minister.
Why employees are shaking up their out-of-office replies
Out-of-office messages have become more than a handful of dates and the email of who to reach out to instead while you’re gone. A Canadian content creator tells us how the messages are becoming a site of creativity — and a new way to assert work-life balance.
Scientists are creating solar eclipses on demand
European scientists have launched the Proba-3 space mission, which will study the sun by creating artificial solar eclipses. An astronomy reporter explains how it's possible and what mysteries about the sun scientists hope to solve through this research.
World leaders decide how to work with Syrian rebels
Terrorist-designated rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is now in control of Syria, and the world is trying to decide how to engage with them. One of the only Western journalists to interview HTS’ leader and an international analyst discuss the group’s promise of tolerance, and if sanctions on Syria should be lifted.
How much fentanyl in the U.S. comes from Canada?
Canada is working to address the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the U.S. in an effort to avoid hefty tariffs threatened by incoming President Donald Trump. But how much fentanyl actually comes from this country? An opioid expert says very little Canadian fentanyl makes its way south, while a border security expert says this country is still a hub for organized crime and money laundering.
The best cookbooks of 2024
A little inspiration in the kitchen can go a long way. Three food fanatics share the cookbooks they loved this year, and what cookbooks are good for in the age of 10-minute recipes on Instagram.
Meet Willow, Google’s new quantum computing chip
Google promises its new “Willow” chip — unveiled this week as the latest update in the field of quantum computers — might someday revolutionize everything from drug discoveries to artificial intelligence. A technology reporter explains what quantum computing is, and why the arms race is on, even though practical uses are still years away.
New hope for N.L. over tentative hydro energy deal
Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador have struck a new hydro energy deal. It replaces the previous pact that saw power leave the Churchill Falls hydroelectric plant in Labrador at a very low price. The tentative renegotiation will see Quebec pay 30 times the previous price. Premier Andrew Furey and the CBC’s David Cochrane share why the old agreement bred resentment within N.L. for more than 60 years, and how this step forward could change their province forever.
A Vancouver Island marmot baby boom
The Vancouver Island marmot — one of Canada’s most endangered species — is making a remarkable population rebound from near-extinction. A conservationist working to save the species tells us about this year’s record arrival of pups, and why the marmots aren’t out of the woods just yet.
After Assad, Syrians reimagine their country’s future
In Syria, celebrating has shifted to planning, as the country maps its future after nearly 14 years of civil war. We hear from a Syrian national once detained by the Assad regime and the CBC’s Margaret Evans about the country’s cautious optimism.
Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup deal causes controversy
Saudi Arabia has been named host of the 2034 World Cup despite a track record of human rights violations. An investigative football journalist tells us why the decision is a “middle finger” to fans of the game.
What does another interest rate cut mean for Canadians?
The Bank of Canada cut its interest rate again yesterday — now down to 3.25 per cent. An economist lays out what that means for your debt, our dollar and an economy that’s got Canadians feeling stretched.
Baker Daniel Leader on the rise of breadmaking
Daniel Leader started selling loaves of bread out of his station wagon four decades ago. Now, the pioneer of the artisanal bread movement is sharing what he’s learned about his craft. Leader tells Matt Galloway about his early loaves — which were more like paperweights — and how the bread baking process is like meditation.
How will life in Canada-U.S. border towns change under Trump?
Donald Trump wants Canada to curb the flow of drugs and migrants southbound across the countries’ shared border. For people living in border communities, what will that look like? We hear from folks whose work and lives straddle the dividing line about the uncertainty Trump’s crackdown brings.
Widows work through their grief at Camp Widow
After Jessica Waite told Matt Galloway about her memoir A Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards, our listeners shared their own experiences with grief. We hear some listener mail about coping with the loss of a partner — and more from producer Alison Masemann’s trip to Camp Widow.
Frustration mounts as Canada Post strike drags on
As the Canada Post strike enters its fourth week, small businesses and rural communities in particular are feeling the pinch. We hear from entrepreneurs who are losing money — and one who is losing their patience — plus a labour expert who says the strike is only proving the courier to be vital.
Should snow tires be mandatory across Canada?
Winter tires are mandatory across Quebec and on mountainous roads in B.C., but in the rest of Canada, the decision rests with drivers. Should that change? A road safety expert weighs in.
How to get to know your neighbours
At a time when loneliness is described as a public health crisis, can your neighbours be the antidote? We hear from people who are bringing their communities together, and a researcher who says a simple nod or smile can go a long way in strengthening relationships.
What will Canada’s private sponsorship pause mean for refugees?
Immigration Minister Marc Miller pressed pause on private refugee sponsorships — a model that other countries around the world have adopted — until the end of 2025. A refugee who fled persecution in Myanmar, his sponsor and an advocate share their fears about what the pause will mean for displaced people who had been hoping for a fresh start in Canada.
Canadians with cancer spend out of pocket for some care
A cancer diagnosis isn’t only terrifying, it's also costly — a new study from the Canadian Cancer Society reveals that the average cancer patient will spend more than $30,000 out of pocket on their treatment. Matt Galloway speaks to one of the study’s authors, and a cancer survivor who had to decide between paying for medication and making rent.
The Syrian government fell — what comes next?
Rebels took control of Syria’s capital on Sunday, sparking celebrations there and around the world, at the end of the Assad family’s 50-year dictatorship. A foreign policy expert says the regime’s swift fall is shocking, and a Syrian-Canadian describes it as a “moment of joy.”
Will Canada’s new Arctic policy bring change for the North?
Canada’s new Arctic Foreign Policy, announced on Friday, aims to strengthen Canada’s position in the region as it’s under threat from Russia and climate change. Leaders in Canada’s North say the policy looks good on paper, but are still waiting to see what changes it might hold for people living in the North, where infrastructure is scant and life is expensive.
How seven fishermen survived 52 hours lost at sea
After seven fishermen disappeared off the coast of Newfoundland this summer, the entire province feared the worst. A regional funeral had already been arranged for the men when the entire crew was found alive. The seven men recount their experience being lost at sea for 52 hours.
Why are there so many food recalls in Canada?
From cantaloupes to almond milk to McDonald’s hamburgers, hundreds of foods have been recalled this year in Canada. We talk to food safety system experts to understand how confident you should be in the contents of your crisper drawer.
Inside the rebuilt Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame reopens this weekend — just five years after fire blazed through the iconic Paris cathedral. A journalist gives us a look inside the rebuilt “people’s palace,” and a Montreal blacksmith who forged the axes used in the reconstruction shares what it means to have left his mark on the 12th-century monument.
What should cities do about people living in RVs?
Police in Calgary ticketed and towed a street full of RVs — vehicles that people priced out of the housing market had been living in. While a local politician says the motorhome dwellers must move along, an Oregon city facing similar issues took a different approach. Could Canada learn from them?
New film explores destruction of a West Bank community
The award-winning documentary No Other Land tells the story of a West Bank community displaced to make way for an Israeli military firing range. Two of its directors, Palestinian Basel Adra and Israeli Yuval Abraham, discuss making the film and the struggle to have this story told in Israel and beyond.
Why this mom paid her kid $100 to read a book
Mireille Silcoff loves books, but her 12-year-old daughter was more interested in screens than reading. That is, until the author offered her kid $100 to read a novel. Silcoff shares how the deal panned out, and why she’d recommend the tactic to other parents.
How to survive in the wilderness
Hiker Sam Benastick survived 50 days in the B.C. wilderness, after he got lost while being chased by a wolf. Matt Galloway talks to a search-and-rescue operator who had his own violent encounter with a grizzly bear; and gets some expert advice on surviving in the backcountry.
The downsides of retreating into ‘cosy tech’
Global uncertainty and a relentless news cycle are leading some people to embrace “cosy tech,” — a world of low-stakes, colourful video games to friendly AI companions. But while the trend may seem benign, writer Kyle Chayka says digital cocooning has its downsides.
Heard black plastic is toxic? Listen to this before you throw it away
A recent report sparked widespread concern about black plastic leaching toxic compounds into food, via plastic utensils and containers. But scientist Joe Schwarcz says the research needs another look — and you might not need to dump all your black plastic spatulas and spoons.
Making hockey a game for everyone
The rink is like a second home for some during the hockey season, but many Canadians still face obstacles when it comes to getting on the ice. Douglas Gelevan explores where our national sport is falling short in his documentary, Hockey For All.
Who are the rebels who reignited Syria’s civil war?
Syria’s civil war has suddenly flared up again, with the rebel Islamist group Hayat Tahir al-Sham launching sweeping attacks and taking control of Aleppo. We look at how President Bashar al-Assad’s regime is responding, and what’s happening to the civilians stuck in the middle.
Protests in Georgia as talks to join EU halted
Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets in Georgia, after the country’s incoming government halted talks to join the European Union. Eurasian expert Stephen Jones says the country is facing rising authoritarianism, and a choice between Europe or Russia.
Why some coaches still see hazing as a good thing
A new survey suggests many coaches still see hazing in sports as important for team building, despite high-profile incidents involving bullying and sexual assault. We talk to coaches and athletes working to change the idea that success in sport comes through suffering.
What Canada can learn from Australia’s social media ban
Australia has banned kids under 16 from social media, but critics say the new law doesn’t engage with the underlying risks of online platforms — and won’t actually stop kids from using them. As Quebec considers a similar ban, what can Canada learn from efforts down under?
The loonie takes a worrying tumble
The Canadian dollar is trading at its lowest level in almost five years. The CBC’s Peter Armstrong talks us through what’s going on, and what might lie ahead for the economy.
RFK Jr. and rising vaccine hesitancy
Anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been nominated as Donald Trump’s health secretary, prompting concerns about rising vaccine hesitancy and misinformation — both in the U.S. and here in Canada.
How a widow found out about her husband’s dark secrets
When Jessica Waite’s husband died, she found shocking secrets in a box of his belongings. She writes about the anger she felt — and what it meant for her grief — in her memoir The Widow's Guide To Dead Bastards.
This B.C. mom hired a PI to follow her teen's drug dealer
Julie Nystrom was so worried that her teenage daughter would die from a drug overdose, she hired a private investigator to track down the man selling her drugs. She wants police to do more to protect teens against dealers and the toxic drug supply.
Orcas visit downtown Vancouver for an ‘afternoon snack’
A family of orcas wowed a passenger ferry in Vancouver's False Creek this week. We hear why researchers are also delighted by their unusual adventure into the heart of the city.
Bob McKeown retires after five decades
As a child Bob McKeown dreamed of winning the Grey Cup and being a reporter like his dad — both dreams he achieved. As the Fifth Estate host prepares to retire after 53 years in journalism, he looks back at a career that includes being punched in the face at an interview, bitten by a shark on camera and threatened with prison time for his work.
Air passengers told not to post complaints online
Tim Rodger fought hard for compensation when his luggage was damaged on a WestJet flight. But when he won and posted about it online, he was told to take the post down. Some experts say there’s a worrying trend where passengers are being silenced by airlines, their lawyers and even the Canadian Transportation Agency.
Tackling medical misinformation spreading online
The CBC’s Nora Young has been looking at how medical misinformation spreads online, and how influencers have brought fringe ideas into the mainstream. She shares what she found.
The Current Introduces | Personally: Short Sighted
People don’t think Graham Isador is losing his sight. They think he’s an asshole.Short Sighted is an attempt to explain what vision loss feels like by exploring how it sounds.Written and hosted by master storyteller Graham Isador, the show’s mini episodes are an intimate and irreverent look at accessibility and its personal impacts.Get lost in someone else’s life. From a mysterious childhood spent on the run, to a courageous escape from domestic violence, each season of Personally invites you to
Inside the premiers’ emergency summit on Trump tariffs
The prime minister held an emergency meeting with provincial premiers Wednesday, to discuss U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s tariffs threat. N.L. Premier Andrew Furey and N.B. Premier Susan Holt tell Matt Galloway what happened at that meeting.
How does involuntary treatment work in the U.S.?
Ricky Garcia struggled with addiction for years, and fought for laws that would allow people in crisis to be forced into involuntary treatment in his home state of Washington. As ideas around involuntary treatment gain traction in Canada, Julia Wong’s documentary Ricky’s Law explores how the approach is working south of the border.
What teens really think about social media
Filmmaker Lauren Greenfield convinced a bunch of teenagers to give her full access to their phones, where she saw social media’s impact on young minds in real time. She shares what she saw, what teens told her — and what parents should be worried about — in the documentary series Social Studies.
Live in Saskatoon, the city that punches well above its weight
Saskatoon punches above its weight as a hub of creativity and culture, but is also grappling with the same problems roiling other Canadian cities. Matt Galloway hosts a special show at a packed Broadway Theatre to meet the people that make life great in the Paris of the Prairies.First up, singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker performs some music from his new album Great Big Sky, and shares how he recently found out he has a new fan: King Charles III.Then, literary power couple Yann Martel and Alice
The literary power couple who fell in love with Saskatoon
Literary power couple Yann Martel and Alice Kuipers only intended to live and work in Saskatoon for a year, but they fell in love with the “land of living skies” — and never left.
Where these Saskatoon comedians find their funny
Some of Saskatoon’s biggest comedy stars share where they find their funny. Dakota Ray Hebert looks back at growing up in a trailer park for her new comedy album Trailer Treasure; and viral social media star Farideh lands some laughs about women’s health and being a (sometimes under-appreciated) mother.
Jeffery Straker’s new fan? King Charles III
Singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker performs some music from his new album Great Big Sky, and shares how he recently found out he has a new fan: King Charles III.
How farming is changing in Saskatchewan
We look at how farming is changing in Saskatchewan as farms get bigger, the climate shifts — and younger people fight to get a foothold, even as older farmers struggle to pass on their land.
The Prairie diving club producing Olympians
Steve and Mary Carroll set up the Saskatoon Diving Club 20 years ago, and this year they sent two divers to the Olympics. Matt Galloway heads to the pool to hear how this landlocked city built a world-class diving program — and take in the view from the 10-metre board.
Helping the homeless in Saskatoon’s harsh winter
Saskatoon’s harsh winters are particularly difficult for the city’s homeless population. We meet some of the people grappling with how to help, from providing life-saving shelter to finding lasting solutions that get people back on their feet.
Why Saskatoon has always been a haven for writers
Award-winning author Guy Vanderhaeghe takes us on a tour of Saskatoon to share what people love about the city, and explain why it’s long been a haven for writers and artists.
What hockey gave Leafs legend Mats Sundin
Mats Sundin captained the Toronto Maple Leafs for 11 seasons, and still has more career goals, overtime goals and points than any other Leafs player. In a conversation from last month, he reflects on his NHL career — and why his family was important at every turn.
What matters to Nova Scotians at the ballot box?
Nova Scotians go to the polls Tuesday, in a snap election called late last month. Guest host Peter Armstrong talks to voters about what’s shaping their decision, from health care to housing.
Tackling high youth unemployment in Canada
Finding a job is increasingly frustrating for young people in Canada, as youth unemployment hovers near a 10-year high. We look at what’s driving the problem, and how to turn it around.
Is Trudeau's tax cut a holiday gift, or a vote grab?
The Liberal government announced a GST holiday on everything from alcohol to Christmas trees, plus a $250 cheque for anyone earning less than $150,000. We look at who the temporary tax cut might help more — the public or the governing party — with the CBC’s Rosemary Barton, the Globe and Mail’s Stephanie Levitz and the Toronto Star’s Ryan Tumilty.
Irwin Cotler on Iran's attempt to assassinate him
Former federal justice minister Irwin Cotler has revealed he was the victim of a planned assassination attempt, backed by the government of Iran. The human rights advocate talks to Matt Galloway about living under police protection — and why it won’t stop his outspoken criticism of the Iranian regime, or his efforts to help the people living under it.
Forecasting the weather (and getting people to listen)
People in Saskatchewan have long trusted meteorologist Terri Lang to steer them through wild weather, from summer tornadoes to walloping snowfalls. She talks to Matt Galloway about retirement, armchair forecasters and why she doesn't tell people at parties what she does.
Why rats just love to drive little cars
Rats can drive little cars — and not only that, getting behind the wheel seems to bring them joy. Researcher Kelly Lambert explains why she taught rodents how to burn rubber, and what it might teach us about ourselves.
Canada Post strike hitting small business hard
Meghan Fahey has shut down her online store selling greeting cards — at her busiest time of year — because the Canada Post strike means she can’t deliver to her customers. We look at the strike’s impact on small businesses; the sticking points between the two sides; and why some observers say it’s time for Canada Post to change its mandate.
Harnessing ocean waves to power your home
Imagine powering your home by tapping into the relentless energy of the ocean’s waves. Scientists in Oregon are trying to make that dream a reality, testing devices that could turn the motion of the ocean into a staggering amount of electricity.
Time running out for COP climate deal
The CBC's Susan Ormiston joins us from the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where the clock is ticking for negotiators to reach a deal to finance years of climate pledges.
International law now just ‘rule of jungle,’ says lawyer
International law has been replaced by the law of the jungle when it comes to Israel’s offensive in Gaza, says Palestinian human rights lawyer Raji Sourani. He wants the international community to hold Israel to account and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Palestinians.
Tackling the obesity epidemic
A new study says three quarters of adults in the U.S. are obese or overweight, while figures put two thirds of Canadians into the same category. We look at what’s contributing to our collective weight gain and how to tackle the growing problem of obesity.
Climate change fuelling human trafficking
Climate change is fuelling a spike in human trafficking in India's West Bengal region. The CBC's South Asia correspondent Salimah Shivji explains how dramatic shifts in climate are wreaking enormous change in peoples' livelihoods and safety.
Menopause is costing women their careers
Tracy Gomez says perimenopause turned her life upside down and eventually cost her her job — and she's not alone. A new B.C. study of more than 1,500 women looks at the economic impacts of menopause and perimenopause, and the barriers to getting treatment.
How will Russia respond to Ukraine attack with U.S. missiles?
Ukraine fired long-range, U.S.-made missiles into Russia for the first time, after outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden gave the green light. We look at how Russia might respond, and what Trump’s incoming presidency will mean for the war.
Rudeness rampant in classrooms, say teachers
Some teachers say kids are just plain ruder these days, with a sharp increase in interruptions and outbursts in the classroom. We look at what’s driving that incivility, and what it means for these kids’ education and the adults they’ll become.
Woman sues AI chatbot company over son’s suicide
Florida mother Megan Garcia believes an AI chatbot led her 14-year-old son to take his own life. Now she's suing Google and Character.ai, the company behind the digital companion.
Canadian philanthropists donate $405 million to fight climate change
Nine wealthy Canadian families and foundations have committed a total of $405 million over the next ten years to help with the climate change fight. The donors say that addressing the complex issue of climate change is multifaceted, and their funding is just the ‘one domino that gets things going.’
Could involuntary treatment help people with mental health and addiction?
As the addiction crisis continues to affect people and communities across Canada, some political leaders say that involuntary treatment can help those with severe mental illness or addiction get the care they need. Others say that getting help should always be a choice, made by individuals in consultation with their healthcare providers and loved ones. We hear from one mayor who wants his city to be considered for any future involuntary care pilot projects.
Is there more to doppelgängers than similar looks?
From Harry Styles, to Dev Patel, to Jeremy Allen White — dozens of celebrity lookalike competitions have popped up in recent weeks. But why are doppelgängers all the rage, when they used to be a sign of bad luck? Nathaniël Siri and Edward Toledo are two lookalikes who say that they share similar interests and traits. However, a psychologist says not all doppelgängers share much in common aside from their looks.
Did you play with these old toys just added to the Hall of Fame?
My Little Pony is being inducted into The National Toy Hall of Fame, along with Transformers and the card game Phase 10. Chris Bensch, chief curator at The Strong Museum of Play, explains why these vintage toys have had such a lasting influence.
Why is Taylor Swift such a ‘catalyst for joy’?
Shawndra Whaley says she cried and cried at Taylor Swift’s concert in Toronto Thursday, overcome by the emotions of being with thousands of other Swifties. We look at why the singer inspires such passion in her fans — including Dawn Johnston, a professor who has lectured on the cultural importance of the singer, and is a bit of a Swiftie herself.
Nobel laureate says Trump could bring economic chaos
The Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz predicts economic chaos under Trump, but says he also understands why many people feel that the system isn't working for them — and why they voted for change. He talks to Matt Galloway about inequality, Elon Musk and a more progressive form of capitalism.
Is your DNA safe with 23andMe?
Millions of people shared their DNA with 23andMe, but now the company is in financial trouble and shedding 40 per cent of its workforce. What does that mean for all the genetic information the company holds?
What you need to know about the bird flu case in B.C.
A B.C. teenager is in critical condition with avian flu, believed to be the first human case contracted in Canada. With the source of the infection still unknown, we look at the possibility of a wider outbreak — and what people can do to reduce that risk.
The push for a new deal on First Nations child welfare
Last month the Assembly of First Nations voted down a draft agreement with the federal government on child welfare reform, worth $47.8 billion. Matt Galloway talks to Chief Derek Nepinak, who says his community needed this agreement; and advocate Cindy Blackstock, who says the goal isn’t a perfect deal, but a just one.
The black market’s latest hot commodity? Butter
We look at the rich history and allure of butter, amid news that thieves in Ontario are stealing it in bulk to sell on the black market.
The Current Introduces: Someone Knows Something Season 9
Christine Harron, a book-loving teenager from Hanover, Ontario, leaves for school in the spring of 1993 and is never seen again. A suspect emerges, confessing to her murder, but the case falls apart and Christine's family are left without answers.In Season 9 of the award winning podcast Someone Knows Something, David Ridgen, along with Christine's mother, reopen the investigation and come face to face with the man who said he killed Chrissy.Someone Knows Something is the investigative true crime
Online gambling like a racetrack in my pocket 24/7, says recovering addict
Adam Pettle has struggled with a gambling addiction since he was a teenager, eventually racking up debts that forced him to sell his family home. The recent boom in online sports betting made Pettle feel like he had a racetrack in his pocket 24/7, and a new report warns that the industry is creating a public health crisis that should be treated like alcohol and tobacco.
Strict time limits are stopping criminal cases ever reaching trial
Emily Quint waited months for the trial of the man she alleges sexually assaulted her, but the case was stayed after it took too long to be heard. That was based on the strict time limits laid out in the Supreme Court’s so-called Jordan decision, which Quint says is more concerned with the rights of accused perpetrators of violence than the rights of survivors.
The search for Christine Harron, in Someone Knows Something.
Christine Harron was 15 when she disappeared from Hanover, Ont., in 1993. Her mother Mary Ann has struggled to find answers ever since, and has now teamed up with investigative filmmaker David Ridgen to find answers in the new season of CBC podcast Someone Knows Something.
Extortion and threats targeting South Asians in Canada
Jas Arora’s life was turned upside down by phone calls from strangers demanding money and threatening violence if he didn’t pay up. He’s not alone. The CBC documentary Our House explores threats and extortion targeting members of the South Asian community in Canada, and why the RCMP alleges the criminals have links to India’s government.
Calls for inquiry into Indigenous people killed by police
Ten Indigenous people have been killed during interactions with police since August, prompting calls for a national inquiry. Matt Galloway talks to Nadalie Saddleback, whose 15-year-old grandson Hoss Lightning was fatally shot by the RCMP three months ago.
Why this journalist ranked all 153 of Willie Nelson's albums
At 91, the great Willie Nelson has released his 153rd album — and shows no signs of slowing down. Music journalist John Spong has ranked all 153 of those records and explores the artist’s story in the podcast, One By Willie.
The couple who fought Nazis behind enemy lines
Sonia and Guy d'Artois were part of a secret force that parachuted into occupied France to help fight Nazis during the Second World War. In May, Nahlah Ayed told the story of their love affair — and their mission behind enemy lines — in her book, The War We Won Apart.
How Trump’s victory could affect climate change policy
The COP29 climate summit begins today, with uncertainty about the impact U.S. president-elect Donald Trump will have on climate change policy. Matt Galloway talks to a panel of climate experts about what could happen if the U.S. retreats from the fight, and what roles the international community should take on.
Canadian veterans forges new identities in culinary world
About 30 veterans have graduated so far from Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Ottawa, thanks to a Veterans Affairs Canada education and training benefit. Graduates Frank Ouellette and Melissa Paris share how cooking has helped them heal, find purpose and move forward after their military service.
Sikh-Hindu tensions flare in Canada
There have been violent confrontations between Sikh separatists and Hindu nationalists outside temples in B.C. and Ontario. We look at what's behind the protests, how the diaspora here is responding and what it will take to turn down the temperature.
Frustrated mayors call on Ford to help end homeless encampments
Some Ontario mayors are asking Premier Doug Ford to invoke the notwithstanding clause so they can clear homeless encampments in their cities. Matt Galloway talks to Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, who signed the letter; and Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, who says the solution lies elsewhere.
Why do people behave so badly on airplanes?
What is it about air travel that prompts so many people to behave so badly? As one airline tries measures to shame passengers who jump the boarding queue, we ask an etiquette expert about the dos, don’ts and absolutely nots of air travel.
How big podcasters helped Trump win
Younger men voted for Donald Trump in big numbers, perhaps influenced by endorsements from ultra-popular podcasters like Joe Rogan and Lex Fridman. Journalist Rebecca Jennings explains how podcasters and influencers are shaking up the political ecosystem — and eclipsing mainstream media.
The sounds of humans moving across the world
A new audio project gathers the sounds of human migration, from the rhythm of a baby’s heartbeat to the sizzle of refugees cooking food, in a land far from home. Stuart Fowkes says his project aims to highlight the humanity in one of the most polarizing topics of our time.
Where does the U.S. go from here?
What does Donald Trump’s victory tell us about the state of the United States, and its future? Matt Galloway talks to historians Carol Anderson and Jill Lepore about how the economy, class, race and gender played into this election — and where things go from here.
Is Canada ready for Trump’s tariffs?
U.S. president-elect Donald Trump has promised an America-first approach to trade, with huge tariffs to back it up. What can Ottawa do to protect Canada’s economy?
Why did voters choose four more years of Trump?
Donald Trump will be the 47th president of the United States, and in the end it wasn’t even close. Matt Galloway talks to political analysts about why voters weren’t put off by Trump’s criminal convictions and inflammatory rhetoric — and what Democrats misread about the mood of the electorate.
Trump won. What comes next?
What might the next four years hold? We talk to Connecticut Republican Party chairman Ben Proto and Keneisha Grant, an associate professor of political science at Howard University.
Can Trump pardon himself?
Political scientist Robert Spitzer talks us through the ongoing criminal cases facing Trump, and whether he will use his presidential powers to go after his “enemies.”
Divided voters react to Trump victory
Tracey Danka is a staunch Trump supporter; her husband Ed voted for Kamala Harris. They tell us about the mood in their house the day after the election. And we check back in with voters we met in Michigan: Audrey Lance, an obstetrician who campaigned for Kamala Harris on reproductive rights; and Brian Pannebecker, founder of Auto Workers for Trump.
What we can learn from the late Murray Sinclair
Anishinaabe senator and renowned lawyer Murray Sinclair died Monday, aged 73. Matt Galloway talks to Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and Indigenous advocate Cindy Blackstock about the man they knew, and his legacy.
These U.S. voters were undecided. What made up their minds?
As election day finally arrives in the U.S., we check back in with three undecided voters in crucial swing states that could decide whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris become the country’s next president. What helped them make up their minds?
UN Security Council ‘not fit for purpose,’ says refugees chief
The world has “become incapable of making peace,” says UN refugee chief Filippo Grandi, allowing escalating conflicts to force more than 120 million people from their homes in places like Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan and Mexico. Grandi talks to Matt Galloway about the plight of those refugees and why he thinks the United Nations is failing to protect the victims of war.
Quebec woman wins her fight for a good death
Sandra Demontigny was in her 30s when she was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's, a disease she watched eat away at her father and grandmother. Demontigny wants to one day access medical assistance in dying and has been fighting for people in her position to consent to the procedure in advance, while they still can. Now, the Quebec government has agreed to the change — we hear what that means to Demontigny and her fight for a good death.
The enduring power of Celine Dion
Céline Dion returned to the global stage this summer after a rare illness forced her out of the spotlight and threatened her decades-long career. The new CBC podcast Celine: Understood explores her ascent from a small-town Quebec singer to a global pop icon.
U.S. braces for contentious vote count
Donald Trump has been ramping up his unfounded claims of election fraud, fuelling fears that this week’s U.S. presidential election could be contested or even become violent. We look at the brewing battle over casting those votes — and counting them fairly.
Record numbers of Canadians turning to food banks
Food bank usage has surged in recent years, with a new report from Food Banks Canada indicating over two million visits in March 2024 alone. Experts suggest that income support and making healthy food more affordable through price controls could help Canadians.
The benefits of being idle
In her new book Going to Seed, Kate J. Neville reflects on the value of being idle. In September, she talked about the importance of escaping the busyness that builds up around family, work and social demands.
Cuba's repeated power outages reflect deeper issues
Ruaridh Nicoll, Cuba correspondent with The Guardian, tells guest host Susan Ormiston how the island’s multiple power shutdowns point to the overall decline of the government’s services — it has few true allies, is financially strapped and is at risk of becoming a failed state.
This summer, Metro Vancouver was overwhelmed by ‘fatbergs’
Fatbergs are causing costly plumbing issues and sewage overflow in Metro Vancouver. These rock-like masses of waste form when fat, oil and grease are mixed with non-biodegradable items like wet wipes – which is why wastewater experts want us to think twice about what we put down the toilet and drain.
Breaking stereotypes about rural middle America
Sarah Smarsh grew up on a wheat farm in Kansas, and in her new essay collection Bone of the Bone: Essays on America by a Daughter of the Working Class, she tackles the narrative that people from the heartland are just “backwards, bigoted, terrible folks.”
Concerns for Gaza aid as Israel bans UN agency
Israel’s government passed a law on Monday to ban the UN’s Palestinian relief agency (UNRWA), the main source of aid for Palestinians. A spokesperson for the organization says it will cause deadly consequences for Palestinians who are already suffering.
Dr. Isaac Bogoch’s forecast for this flu season
As days get shorter and temperatures drop, flu season is upon us. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital, tells guest host Susan Ormiston about what to expect this year.
The Current Introduces | Uncover: Bad Results
They needed certainty. They got chaos. For over a decade, countless people from at least five different countries put their trust in a company offering prenatal paternity tests. It promised clients “99.9% accuracy” — but then routinely, for over a decade, identified the wrong biological fathers.Investigative journalists Jorge Barrera and Rachel Houlihan track down the people whose lives were torn apart by these bad results, the shattered families and acrimonious court cases that followed, and th
Toronto DNA lab repeatedly identified the wrong dads
For over a decade, countless people’s lives were turned upside down when a Canadian company knowingly issued incorrect paternity tests — despite promising “99.9 per cent accuracy.” Investigative journalists Jorge Barrera and Rachel Houlihan tell this story in Bad Results, the latest season of CBC’s true crime podcast, Uncover.
Will Poilievre's promise to remove GST on new homes under $1M work?
In response to Canadians struggling to afford housing, the Conservative leader has pledged to remove the GST on newly-built homes sold for less than a million dollars. Economist Mike Moffatt likes the idea, but says that it needs to go further by building more homes.
The surprising role that fungi can play in the ecosystem
Conservation advocates at the UN’s biological diversity convention propose that fungi be categorized separately from animals and plants, as they can play a significant role in protecting the environment.
Report on unmarked graves at residential schools calls for new laws, reparations
It's been three years since Indigenous leaders in Kamloops, Cowessess and other First Nations revealed there were hundreds of unmarked graves on the sites of former residential schools. Kimberly Murray, who was appointed special independent interlocutor for missing children and unmarked graves and burial sites associated with Indian Residential Schools, talks about her new report — and the 42 obligations Canadian institutions must meet.
Should we let humans go extinct?
In the face of human-made climate change, philosopher Todd May asks whether we even deserve to inhabit this planet in his book, Should We Go Extinct? In September, he told Matt Galloway that the question could force us to consider how to be better stewards of the Earth.
Is turbulence ‘all but guaranteed’ in Canadian politics?
New Brunswick chose change, the Saskatchewan Party won a fifth straight majority, and the B.C. result was so close it took days to decide. Our national affairs panel looks at what these provincial results might mean for the next federal election — and whether “turbulence is all but guaranteed.”
Fight to return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia
Ukraine says more than 19,000 children have been taken into Russia since the war began — and most have not returned. Guest host Susan Ormiston talks to Mykola Kuleba, Ukraine’s former children’s ombudsman, who is urging the international community to help bring those children home.
Timothy Snyder on avoiding the trap of ‘negative freedom’
Historian Timothy Snyder says thinking about freedom as “me against the system” is actually a trap that stops people from being truly free. The best-selling author of On Tyranny spoke with Matt Galloway at the Vancouver Writers Fest about his new book On Freedom, and why he’s now “100 per cent convinced” that there will be violence around the looming U.S. election.
How Tanya Talaga found her family’s lost Indigenous history
When journalist Tanya Talaga's great uncle requested government documents about his mother, he was told she didn't exist. In her book The Knowing, Talaga digs into how her family’s Indigenous identity was erased, and what that tells us about Canadian history.
Bob Woodward on war and the American presidency
Journalist Bob Woodward's new book, War, takes us inside the White House to explore how the presidencies of Joe Biden and Donald Trump tackled global conflicts, from Ukraine to the Middle East to the fight for the American presidency itself.
The couple in their 90s throwing weekly kitchen parties
Pauline Nickerson says it would be a miserable world without music. She and her husband Arnold, both in their 90s, host weekly kitchen parties in Nova Scotia, bringing music and joy to a faithful crowd of seniors who never miss a week.
Frank Stronach responds to sexual assault allegations
Canadian billionaire Frank Stronach is facing allegations of sexual assault from 13 women, spanning decades. The Fifth Estate’s Mark Kelley spoke to some of those women, and put the allegations to Stronach in exclusive one-on-one interviews.
What hockey gave Leafs legend Mats Sundin
Mats Sundin captained the Toronto Maple Leafs for 11 seasons, and still has more career goals, overtime goals, and points than any other Leafs player. He reflects on his NHL career — and the importance of family at every twist and turn — in his new memoir Home and Away.
Take a tour of Detroit’s historic Blue Bird Inn
The Blue Bird Inn on Detroit’s west side was the birthplace of bebop jazz and a hub for the city’s working-class Black community. Michelle Jahra McKinney gives us a tour of the venue, which closed 20 years ago but is now being revitalized as a music venue and archive.
The Arab-American protest vote against the Democrats
Arab-American residents of Dearborn, Mich., have usually voted Democrat. But anger over the war in the Middle East is prompting many voters to turn away from Kamala Harris, and consider a protest vote for Donald Trump. In this crucial swing state, could that anger decide the outcome of this entire election?
This retired auto worker is pinning his hopes on Trump
Michigan has been called the state that put the world on wheels, but after weathering decades of decline the state’s auto industry is now reckoning with the transition to electric vehicles. We hear why one retired auto worker is backing Donald Trump, despite what he said about Detroit.
What this election might mean for abortion in the U.S.
Abortion is top of mind for many U.S. voters following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. We talk to women in Michigan about what the issue means to them, and what this election means for health care and reproductive rights across the whole country.
Elon Musk is giving away millions to U.S. voters. Is it legal?
Elon Musk is giving away $1 million US every day to someone who signs his petition to support “freedom of speech and the right to bear arms,” as long as they’re a registered voter in a swing state. Critics say it’s an attempt to sway votes for Donald Trump — and could be illegal.
An invasion at the bottom of the Great Lakes
The new documentary All Too Clear explores the darkest depths of the Great Lakes, and finds a vast carpet of invasive quagga mussels, numbering in the quadrillions. Guest host Peter Armstrong talks to filmmakers Zach Melnick and Yvonne Drebert about their deep dive into that ecological damage — and the century-old shipwreck they discovered along the way.
What will the Bank of Canada’s rate cut mean for you?
The Bank of Canada has slashed its key interest rate to 3.75 per cent, the biggest drop since the start of the pandemic. We look at how long it will take for this to reach the wallets of cash-strapped Canadians — and the tightrope the Bank is walking when it comes to inflation.
How Rumble became the platform for creators banned elsewhere
Rumble may be a lesser-known social media site, but it’s been gaining momentum as a platform for content creators banned by bigger sites. Nora Young, from the CBC’s Visual Investigations Unit, digs into the Canadian-founded video platform’s soaring popularity.
The Current Introduces | Céline: Understood
Céline Dion is having a moment. It’s not her first, and millions of fans are hoping it won’t be her last. While Céline’s international stardom seems obvious now, it was all so unlikely.Now, as a rare illness threatens to retire Celine’s more-than-four-decade long career, in Céline: Understood culture writer Thomas Leblanc reveals the surprising cultural, political and business alchemy that created one of the most enduring superstars the planet has ever seen.Understood is an anthology podcast tha
AI needs a lot of power. So Google’s going nuclear
Google has signed a first-of-its-kind deal to fuel its AI data centres with nuclear power, from next-generation small modular reactors that are yet to be built. We look at AI’s enormous appetite for power — and whether it could drive growth in the alternative energy sector.
Trudeau’s ‘revolting caucus’ and Poilievre’s security clearance
Justin Trudeau could face calls to resign from his own “revolting caucus” Wednesday, while Pierre Poilievre is under increased scrutiny for refusing to get security clearance. Guest host Peter Armstrong unpacks the politics with the CBC’s Catherine Cullen, the Globe and Mail's Stephanie Levitz and the National Post’s Christopher Nardi.
Could doctors soon prescribe music as medicine?
We know music can soothe the soul, but neuroscientist Daniel Levitin says it could also help heal the body and brain. Last month, he spoke with Matt Galloway about the power of music as medicine — and how it helped his friend, Joni Mitchell, recover from a brain aneurysm.
America Votes: Stories from the Arizona border, its politics and its people
In the dead of night, charity workers head into the Arizona desert, with food and water for migrants trying to cross into the U.S. Not far away, a rancher says the people he sees constantly crossing his land are criminals. And an undocumented family shares what life is like for them, from running a small business to getting their kids into college, without immigration status. Matt Galloway travels to Arizona to meet these people and other voters, and learn why the border has become a flashpoint
Could Hamas leader’s death lead to a ceasefire?
Israel says its soldiers killed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in a firefight Thursday. What will his death mean for the escalating conflict in the region, the Israeli hostages still held by Hamas, and the plight of Palestinian civilians under assault from Israel in Gaza?
Why Canada needs to improve miscarriage care
Many women experiencing a miscarriage end up in the ER, where they can face long wait times and a lack of compassion. A report published this week is calling for investments in early pregnancy care in Canada, arguing it would reduce the substantial suffering of pregnancy loss.
The teen who conquered the world’s 14 tallest mountains
At 18 years old, Nima Rinji Sherpa has become the youngest person to climb the world’s 14 tallest mountains, including Everest. He joins us from his home in Kathmandu to share what he saw at the top of the world.
Trump’s pitch to white Christian nationalists
Donald Trump has suggested God has chosen him to lead the U.S., an idea that is striking a chord with white Christian nationalists. Author and religious scholar Bradley Onishi explains the role that group plays in shaping U.S. politics — and the looming election.
What’s needed for foreign-trained doctors to work in Canada?
We received a lot of mail about Nova Scotia’s plan to fast-track licensing for foreign-trained doctors who come to Canada, reducing the time from 18 months to 12 weeks in some cases. Dr. Michelle Morros, a family physician in Alberta, shares her thoughts.
Chef Chuck Hughes on cooking for — and with — his kids
Acclaimed Montreal chef Chuck Hughes never really cooked at home before he had kids — but now he's conjuring up recipes like hotdog french toast with his 8 and 10-year-old sous-chefs. He shares some recipes that your kids might love in his new book Home Cooking: Family Favourite Recipes From My Kitchen To Yours.
Opioid deaths dropped this year. Experts hope it’s not ‘a blip’
New figures show a sharp drop in overdose deaths in the U.S., offering a rare glimmer of hope in the opioid crisis. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen digs into what could be driving that decrease, whether it’s a blip — and what it all means for saving lives here in Canada.
Poilievre says Trudeau was lying, after explosive testimony
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he has the names of Conservative parliamentarians involved in foreign interference, but Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has refused the security screening that would give him access to those names. In response, Poilievre said the prime minister is lying and should name names. National security expert Wesley Wark unpacks Trudeau’s explosive testimony to the foreign interference inquiry Wednesday.
A Canadian’s brush with death on Ukraine's front lines
A Canadian soldier fighting in Ukraine had a recent brush with death after being badly wounded in an attack from Russian forces. The CBC’s David Common brings us a rare window into the war through the eyes of this Canadian fighter, known as Shadow.
India’s response to RCMP allegations
Ottawa expelled six Indian diplomats this week, following RCMP allegations that Indian officials in Canada have been involved in a wide range of criminal activities. The CBC’s Salimah Shivji joins us from Delhi to discuss the allegations — and how they’ve been received in India.
What Taylor Swift shows us about the fight for women’s rights
Journalist Elizabeth Renzetti says the fight for women's rights is far from over, from persistent wage inequality to a global backlash over reproductive rights. She tells us about her new book What She Said: Conversations About Equality — and why she thinks the pop star Taylor Swift represents the strange dichotomy that so many young women are trapped in today.
What would a Trump win mean for trade with Canada?
Donald Trump says he’ll slap tariffs on global imports if he wins the White House, which could spell trouble for Canadian business. But Kirsten Hillman, Canada's ambassador to the U.S., says these protectionist tendencies aren’t new — and her team is already pushing back.
How DeMar DeRozan changed mental health in sports
DeMar DeRozan changed the conversation around mental health in basketball, starting with a single tweet about his own struggles with depression. In September, the former Toronto Raptor spoke to Matt Galloway about why he now sees vulnerability as a form of strength — and why he “couldn't stand” Kyle Lowry when they first met.
The world’s humanity is ‘under the rubble’ in Gaza, says poet
Gaza has become a graveyard for the world’s humanity, says Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha. He fled the enclave with his wife and children when Israel invaded last year, in a military campaign that has since killed 31 members of his extended family. He talks to Matt Galloway about watching that violence from afar, and writing poetry amid unimaginable loss.
Sitting down with a Jan. 6 protester
The CBC’s Katie Nicholson was reporting live from the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot when she was swarmed by Trump supporters and forced off air. In her new documentary she tracks down one of the people who harassed her — a woman who still firmly believes the 2020 U.S. election was stolen, and is married to a lifelong Democrat who does not.
The molecular approach to great-tasting food
Arielle Johnson says knowing the basic building blocks of taste — on a molecular level — can help any cook create something delicious. In a conversation from May, she talks to Matt Galloway about the science of flavour and her book, Flavorama.
Why a place to call home can be the best medicine
Over the past year, more than 4,000 visits to ERs in Toronto were made by a small group of 100 unhoused people. Now, the city’s University Health Network is supporting Dunn House, a project offering homes to people in that group, with onsite medical and social supports.
How canoes and sea otters shore up Haida Gwaii’s culture
Last month Matt Galloway visited the islands of Haida Gwaii, to hear about a historic agreement that recognizes the Haida Nation’s title over the land. We revisit his conversation with renowned Haida artist Christian White — about preserving and celebrating his nation’s ancient traditions — and hear about the return of sea otters to the archipelago’s ecosystem.
Spike in deadly crime in small B.C. town
Julie Hosack’s son Cole is one of several people who have gone missing in Dawson Creek, a picturesque B.C. town that has become a hotbed for drugs and violent crime. The Fifth Estate went there to investigate the sudden spike in deadly crime, and found a community on edge and deeply frustrated with the RCMP.
The magazine that finds reasons to be cheerful
Journalist Will Doig says there’s reasons for hope in even the darkest topics. As editor of the online magazine Reasons to be Cheerful — launched by David Byrne of the Talking Heads — Doig searches for stories that embody change and remind us of what’s good in the world.
The Canadian photo that won Wildlife Photo of the Year
Canadian Shane Gross has just won the Wildlife Photo of the Year award, for a picture that might change how you think about tadpoles. He tells us about the time he spends underwater and what he wants people on dry land to know about the world below the surface.
Yotam Ottolenghi on comfort food — and saying no to guilt
Chef Yotam Ottolenghi’s new cookbook, Ottolenghi Comfort, focuses on recipes that bring us warmth when we need it most, from curries and noodles to a simple chocolate mousse. He talks to Matt Galloway about how what we cook — and who we eat it with — can bring comfort in uncomfortable times.
Getting foreign-trained doctors to work, faster
It takes 18 months for a foreign-trained doctor to be licensed to work in Canada, but a new plan in Nova Scotia aims to cut that time to just 12 weeks. Experts hope that getting these physicians to work faster can help the millions of Canadians who don’t have a family doctor.
Hurricane Milton felt like ‘someone screaming, just outside’
Hurricane Milton tore through Florida overnight, ripping the roof off the Tampa Bay Rays’ home stadium and leaving millions without power and facing extensive flooding. The CBC's Katie Simpson brings us the latest from Orlando, where people are just stepping outside to assess the damage.
Does money pit generations against each other? Listeners react
Last week’s conversation about pension hikes and generational fairness sparked an avalanche of mail from listeners. We hear your thoughts, and reconvene our panel to discuss how to create policies that benefit all Canadians, without pitting generations against each other.
Using placentas to heal complex wounds
A Toronto hospital is using human placentas to treat complex burns and wounds. We look at how it works — and why doctors are urging women to donate rather than dump the organ.
How disinformation makes a natural disaster more dangerous
Hurricane season has collided with an election campaign in the U.S., and politicians like Donald Trump are using the moment to spread disinformation about relief efforts. The CBC's Nora Young helps us disentangle the facts from the deepfakes.
Why was no one held accountable for the Haditha Massacre?
U.S. marines killed 24 unarmed Iraqi men, women and children in 2005, in what became known as the Haditha Massacre. Investigative journalist Madeleine Baran, host of the podcast In the Dark, looks at what happened that day — and why no one was ever held accountable.
Floridians flee second monster storm in weeks
Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida, just weeks after the destruction of Hurricane Helene. Jaina Thatch has already been evacuated. She says facing two monster storms back-to-back is unimaginable, she just hopes she’ll have a home to go back to.
Why gender matters in the U.S. election
What role will the “man-o-sphere” and “childless cat ladies” play in a tight U.S. presidential election? We look at how Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are campaigning along gender lines — and whether the result will come down to whether men will vote for a female president.
Many teens aren’t using condoms, research shows
Research shows teens in Canada are becoming less likely to use a condom. We look at how educators are taking a different approach to talking about sexual health — and what’s at stake.
The wild stories buried in Jeanne Beker’s closet
Fashion journalist Jeanne Beker pulls some wild stories out of her closet in her new book, Heart on My Sleeve, from chatting to famous musicians in the bath to walking out on an interview with Iggy Pop. She shows Matt Galloway how the items in her closet tell her story, from a yellow bikini top to a boxy Chanel dress.
Lives changed forever, one year on from Oct. 7
The Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel unleashed a year of bloodshed and trauma, in the Middle East and beyond. Matt Galloway talks to two people about how their lives were turned upside down — and whether they have any hope for a lasting peace.
Why Canadians need more help dealing with dizziness
Some Canadians deal with spells of dizziness that can last hours or even days. But experts say there’s a lack of understanding about the underlying causes — and millions aren’t getting the treatment they need.
Political failure and expanding war in the Middle East
Israel intensified airstrikes in Lebanon this weekend and announced “a new phase” in its offensive in Gaza. Matt Galloway talks to the CBC’s Margaret Evans in Beirut; and discusses a year of conflict and political failure with policy experts Janice Stein and Khaled Elgindy.
Idris Elba on his love of music — and fairness for Black musicians
Idris Elba is best known for his acting, but he’s also a passionate musician and DJ. He talks to Matt Galloway about what music means to his life, and his new docu-series, Paid In Full, which looks at the history of Black musicians being exploited by the music industry.
Is a pension hike fair to struggling young Canadians?
The Bloc Québécois demand for a pension hike has sparked debate about generational fairness. While many seniors believe the increase is overdue, younger Canadians say they’re also struggling, and things that their parents took for granted — like affordable housing — are no longer within reach.
Canadian stuck in Lebanon says empty seats on flights don’t ‘make any sense’
Ahmad Araji has been trying unsuccessfully to book a flight out of Beirut, and says it doesn’t make sense that flights are leaving for Canada with hundreds of empty seats. The Lebanese-Canadian man tells us what he’s seeing as Israel continues its airstrikes and ground invasion of Lebanon, displacing more than one million people and risking a humanitarian crisis.
Why one hour outside can help your child’s eyesight
Parents know their kids need to regularly visit the dentist, but don’t think about seeing an optician in the same way, says Dr. Debbie Jones. As new research suggests 1 in 3 children globally suffer from myopia, Jones explains why getting outside, away from screens, can help.
Using oysters to fight coastal erosion
Oysters are being used to fight coastal erosion, by creating living shorelines that can protect against climate change and rising sea levels. Researcher Jacob Stolle explains how it works.
Coming together after Hurricane Helene’s devastation
Hundreds of people are still unaccounted for after Hurricane Helene ripped through the southeast U.S. last week. We hear from people who lived through the storm’s destruction, and are now banding together to tackle the aftermath.
A child kept in solitary confinement for 730 days
As a teenager, Jack Whalen was held in solitary confinement for 730 days — beaten, humiliated and told he would amount to nothing at a notorious Newfoundland boys' home. He’s sharing his fight for justice in the new book Invisible Prisons, written with the help of author Lisa Moore.
What’s at stake with Canada’s low birth rate?
Canada recorded its lowest fertility rate for the second year in a row in 2023. Economist Armine Yalnizyan tells us what’s at stake for countries with a low birth rate, and what kind of supports would help struggling young Canadians embrace parenthood.
Malcolm Gladwell on what The Tipping Point got wrong
Malcolm Gladwell says he got some things wrong in The Tipping Point, his 25-year-old bestseller about what drives social change — so he’s written a follow-up, Revenge of the Tipping Point. He talks to Matt Galloway about revising some of those theories for a different time, the power of a compelling narrative and the weirdness of Miami.
After Iran’s strike on Israel, what happens next?
Iran fired missiles at Israel Tuesday, hours after Israel began a ground incursion in Lebanon. We look at Iran’s role in the region’s escalating conflict — and the risk of all-out war.
Walz and Vance trade barbs — politely
U.S. vice-presidential candidates J.D. Vance and Tim Walz had a civilized and at times even cordial debate Tuesday, in stark contrast to when Donald Trump faced off against Kamala Harris last month. What does the debate tell us about the remaining month of this campaign?
The Current Introduces | Split Screen: Thrill Seekers
A TV crew offers 12 ordinary people the chance to take part in the adventure of a lifetime. But there’s a catch. The audience knows everything but the contestants are kept in the dark. As the cameras roll, no questions are allowed. Split Screen: Thrill Seekers is a new 6 part series that exposes how a TV show left contestants struggling to trust what’s actually real.Host Nick van der Kolk (Love + Radio) asks: does reality TV only succeed when it exploits those involved? He talks to the set desig
Amir Tibon on surviving the Oct. 7 attack
Israeli journalist Amir Tibon survived the Oct. 7 attack on his kibbutz Nahal Oz, hiding in a safe room with his wife and two children. His new book, The Gates of Gaza, tells the harrowing story of that day and the Israeli-Palestinian history that led to it.
Renters relying on credit cards to make ends meet
Toronto renter Jennifer Smith had to dip into her line of credit to get a house for her family, but often has to prioritize paying rent or feeding her kids over repaying that debt. We look at why Canadian renters are carrying more personal debt — and what can be done to help.
Banning basements in the face of climate change
Some Quebec politicians are calling for a ban on new basement apartments in flood-prone areas. Some critics say the move doesn’t go far enough in the face of a changing climate.
Indigenous life expectancy is dropping. How do we fix it?
Recent reports from British Columbia and Alberta found life expectancy for Indigenous people has decreased by six and seven years, respectively, in those provinces. Three Indigenous health-care professionals tell host Matt Galloway that more Indigenous doctors, nurses and decision makers are needed to reverse the trend.
What standing in joy means to William Prince
Singer-songwriter William Prince wants his son to one day look back and say, “My dad was happy.” The award-winning artist spoke about making an intentional choice to “stand in joy,” and why it’s an honour to perform at home in Winnipeg, even as he sells out shows across Canada and beyond.
Margaret Evans reports on the latest updates from Lebanon
The CBC’s senior international correspondent Margaret Evans joins us from Beirut to discuss Israel’s killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, how it's impacting people on the ground, implications for Lebanon and the ongoing fears of further escalation in the Middle East.
Debate over Alberta’s new wildlife management plan
7,000 Albertans have applied to the province’s new wildlife management program, which would allow selected citizens to hunt “problem” animals, including grizzly bears. Critics and proponents of the program discuss its potential — and if there might be better alternatives.
Reflections on reconciliation from Murray Sinclair's memoir
Former judge, senator and chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Murray Sinclair reads an excerpt from his book Who We Are: Four Questions For a Life and a Nation. The memoir draws from his personal experiences to reflect on truth and reconciliation in Canada.
Why Hillary Clinton is scared of Trump winning again
Former U.S. secretary of state Hillary Rodham Clinton says she’s scared about what might happen under a second Trump presidency — and she’ll do everything she can to help Kamala Harris win in November. In a Canadian-exclusive interview, Clinton talks to Matt Galloway about what’s at stake, from abortion rights to the rule of law, and where U.S. politics goes from here.
The charges against Sean (Diddy) Combs
Hip-hop mogul Sean (Diddy) Combs has been indicted around allegations he coerced and sexually abused women for years, while using blackmail and violence to keep victims from speaking out. The CBC’s Elamin Abdelmahmoud takes a closer look at the case against him.
How poutine became the iconic Canadian dish
Poutine might be the closest thing Canada has to a national dish, but how do you pronounce it? Where did it come from — and what separates a great poutine from a great pretender? Justin Giovannetti Lamothe explores all these questions in his new book Poutine: A Deep-Fried Road Trip of Discovery.
Should parents have to fundraise for schools?
Is it time to rethink the ways parents raise money for their children’s classroom? Matt Henderson, superintendent of the Winnipeg School Division, says relying on parents fundraising might mean lower-income neighbourhoods get left behind.
Uncovering disinformation with open source intelligence
Former Spark host Nora Young is part of CBC’s new Visual Investigations unit, a team that aims to publish stories examining disinformation, like AI deepfakes. With fabricated content becoming more sophisticated, she talks to Matt Galloway about the methods available to debunk them — including open source intelligence.
National affairs panel breaks down the B.C. election
B.C.’s provincial election campaign has officially kicked off. Matt Galloway discusses what’s at stake with Katie De Rosa, B.C. provincial affairs reporter for CBC, and Les Leyne, legislative reporter for the Victoria Times Colonist.
Should we let humans go extinct?
In the face of human-made climate change, philosopher Todd May calls us to reflect on whether we deserve to inhabit this planet in his new book, Should We Go Extinct? The question, he says, can force us to consider how to be better stewards of the Earth.
Bob Rae on Canada’s approach to pressing global conflicts
Bob Rae, Canada's ambassador to the UN, discusses Canada’s stance on pressing global conflicts, including fears of all-out war in the Middle East, the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war and gang violence in Haiti.
Fears of escalating violence in Lebanon and Israel
More than 500 people have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. Matt Galloway talks to people on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border about growing fears of all-out war.
Why all parts of a city deserve ‘tree equity'
Trees can richly improve the quality of life in a city, but not all neighbourhoods have them. Advocates of “tree equity” say everyone deserves access to that shade and sense of beauty.
Asking doctors to see the person behind the patient
Dr. Harvey Max Chochinov says doctors shouldn’t just focus on diseases or sick body parts, but get to know the person behind the patient. He talks to Matt Galloway about his mission to improve the doctor-patient experience for all of us.
The human ‘guinea pigs’ testing drugs for a living
Thousands of Canadians make a living volunteering to test out new drugs in clinical trials, even if those drugs can have dangerous, unpredictable side-effects. Habiba Nosheen explores the ethical questions about that work in her new documentary, Bodies for Rent.
Battling goblins, live on the radio
Over 50 years, Dungeons & Dragons has run the gamut from being decried as Satanism to going mainstream in hit shows like Stranger Things. Professional Dungeon Master John Dempsey takes Matt Galloway, a.k.a. Elrick Nightbreeze, into the ruins to battle some goblins.
What the Bloc Québécois wants for keeping Liberals in power
Yves-François Blanchet says the Bloc Québécois won’t vote with the Conservatives to bring down the Liberal government — this time. We look at what Blanchet wants in return, and how the balance of power has shifted in Ottawa.
Could doctors soon prescribe music as medicine?
We know music has the power to soothe the soul, but neuroscientist Daniel Levitin says it could also help heal the body and brain. Levitin talks to Matt Galloway about the power of music as medicine — and how it helped his friend, Joni Mitchell, recover from a brain aneurysm.
Why more nurses work for private agencies — at public cost
A new report says at least $1.5 billion in public funds was paid to for-profit agencies supplying nurses to the public system last year. We hear why nurses are choosing to work for private agencies — and what it all means for the staffing crisis in the health-care system.
Tupperware’s iconic brand set to expire
Tupperware has filed for bankruptcy. We hear how an iconic brand and its groundbreaking sales tactics fell out of fashion.
How a land deal led to decades of conflict for Piapot First Nation
A treaty land agreement in Saskatchewan 30 years ago was supposed to benefit everyone in the Piapot First Nation. Instead, it generated profit for just a few dozen private citizens. The CBC’s Geoff Leo explores how that happened in his new documentary.
Humans are so smart, yet so stupid. Yuval Noah Harari thinks he knows why
Why are humans intelligent enough to send people to the moon, but seemingly unable to solve our problems here on Earth? Historian and bestselling author Yuval Noah Harari thinks he has the answer. He spoke to Matt Galloway about his new book Nexus — and how our information networks have both helped and hindered humanity, from the stone age to the dawn of AI.This is an extended podcast version of a conversation recorded in front of a live audience at the Toronto International Festival of Authors,
Trump or Harris? What undecided U.S. voters are thinking
Matt Galloway talks to three undecided voters in the crucial swing states that could decide whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris become the next president of the United States.
Will Gisèle Pelicot's rape case spark change in France?
More than 50 men are on trial in France for the mass rape of Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband is accused of drugging her and recruiting men to sexually assault her over a decade. By waiving her anonymity, Pelicot has become a powerful figure in what advocates say is an overdue national conversation about sexual violence and rape culture in France.
Would you track your kids with AirTags?
Some parents are using AirTags and apps to track everything from precisely where their children are, to how fast the car they're riding in is going. We look at the rise of surveillance parenting and the impact it has on kids — and parents.
Lebanon in mourning, on brink of war
Journalist Jane Arraf takes us inside Beirut, where people are reeling from the attacks that killed dozens and wounded thousands — and sparked fears of all-out war with Israel.
Roxana Spicer uncovers her mother’s secret stories of war
Agnes Spicer was a tough Russian immigrant to Canada who fought the Nazis in Ukraine and survived years in their captivity — but kept her secrets close in later life. Her daughter, journalist Roxana Spicer, tells Agnes’ incredible story in her book The Traitor’s Daughter.
What’s life in Iraq like now?
Iraq’s government has reached a tentative deal for U.S. troops to leave, 20 years after the invasion. Three Iraqis share their hopes for the future and offer a glimpse of life in their country now, once again on the precipice of change.
Denied out-of-province care, this N.S. woman asks for MAID
Jennifer Brady lives with debilitating and painful lymphedema, but her home province of Nova Scotia refuses to fund a surgery — available in Quebec — that could improve her quality of life. After years of fighting to get that out-of-province care, Brady has now applied for medical assistance in dying. The CBC’s Angela McIvor brings us her story.
Can dogs understand the words we speak?
The internet is filled with videos of dogs using soundboards to communicate with their humans — but have they just been trained on which buttons to push? A new study suggests dogs can understand the meaning behind specific words and respond appropriately.
Pager explosions wound thousands in Lebanon
Hundreds of handheld pagers exploded across Lebanon on Tuesday, injuring nearly 3,000 people and killing twelve, including two children. Hezbollah has blamed Israel for the attack, sparking fears of an escalation of violence in the wider region.
Baseball-sized hailstones batter Alberta
Hailstones the size of baseballs smashed car windows and even an airport roof in Alberta last month, causing $2.8 billion in insurance claims. We hear more about life in “hail alley,” and how people living there can guard against this kind of sudden destruction.
Fears of political violence growing in U.S.
Polls show that a rising number of U.S. citizens believe violence is a valid means to achieve their political goals, with a second apparent attempt on Donald Trump’s life just the latest in a long list of attacks targeting politicians on both sides of the aisle.
How one word a day sustains this friendship
Every day, two women on opposite sides of the Atlantic share a single word with each other — a kind of lexicon ping-pong that helps to sustain their long-distance, 40-year friendship. Alisa Siegel brings us their story in her documentary, One Word.
After Montreal byelection loss, is any Liberal seat safe?
The Bloc Québécois have taken what was thought to be a safe Liberal seat in Montreal, in the second surprise byelection loss for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in three months. Le Devoir columnist Emilie Nicolas gauges the mood among voters — and what this means for Trudeau’s leadership.
Is tipping culture out of control?
The Quebec government wants tips to be calculated on the price before taxes, in a move aimed at reducing the pressure on consumers. Tipping culture expert Bruce McAdams explains how “tip-flation” has increased the price you pay — and what those tips mean to workers.
How DeMar DeRozan changed mental health in sports
DeMar DeRozan changed the conversation around mental health in basketball, starting with a single tweet about his own struggles with depression. The former Toronto Raptor talks to Matt Galloway about why he now sees vulnerability as a form of strength — and why he “couldn't stand” Kyle Lowry when they first met.
China suddenly ends international adoptions
Pierre Lemay and his wife were in the late stages of adopting a young boy from China when the country suddenly ended its international adoption program — halting all applications. Lemay says he wants the federal government to intervene to help his family and the little boy they’ve formed a connection with.
How Indigenous communities are bringing buffalo back
Cree filmmaker Tasha Hubbard’s documentary Singing Back The Buffalo explores how Indigenous nations are working to bring back buffalo across North America.
Unpredictable, frenetic, kinetic: What to expect when parliament resumes
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre says he’ll trigger a non-confidence vote on the Liberal government — but do the other opposition parties want an election? As parliament resumes Monday, we look at the rocky road ahead with the CBC’s Rosemary Barton, the Globe and Mail's Stephanie Levitz and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
Bob McDonald on overcoming impostor syndrome — and saying yes
Quirks and Quarks host Bob McDonald says people are often surprised to learn he’s a university dropout — a fact that’s contributed to the impostor syndrome he’s felt his whole life. In his new memoir Just Say Yes, Bob McDonald charts his path from an unhappy and sometimes abusive home to Canada's foremost explainer of all things scientific.
Carving a 50-foot canoe from a massive red cedar
Renowned Haida artist Christian White takes us into his carving studio, where he and his team are putting the final touches to a 50-foot canoe, crafted from a giant red cedar. He tells us about the process and importance of bringing ancient traditions to life, by hand.
Combatting Islamophobia on Canada’s campuses
Amira Elghawaby has been visiting campuses across Canada to examine a rise in Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism since the Oct. 7 attacks and Israel’s military assault on Gaza. She tells Matt Galloway what she’s hearing from students and staff, in her role as Canada's special representative on combatting Islamophobia.
Ukraine hits Moscow with drones as war with Russia grinds on
Ukraine launched its largest drone strike on Moscow earlier this week, and may soon receive U.S. approval to use long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russia. What might this mean for a war that is heading into its third winter, with no sign of resolution?
Air Canada passengers anxious about potential strike
Flights could be cancelled this weekend if an Air Canada pilot strike goes ahead. We look at what you can do if you have tickets, and what this all means for flying in Canada.
Sea otters make a comeback on Haida Gwaii
Sea otters have returned to Haida Gwaii. We hear what that means for rebalancing the archipelago’s ecosystem — and a terrifying tale of an encounter with their cousin: the river otter.
How Harris got under Trump’s skin
Kamala Harris repeatedly knocked Donald Trump off topic in Tuesday’s debate, leaving Trump looking “undisciplined, unfocused and at times unhinged” according to Republican strategist Matthew Bartlett. What impact will each candidate’s performance have on a presidential race that’s so far been too close to call?
How magic mushrooms help the dying
Janis Hughes suffered from debilitating anxiety after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis — and what helped her through it was a trip on magic mushrooms. We hear why patients and advocates are calling on the government to ease access to psychedelic drugs like psilocybin for palliative care patients.
Tired? Anxious? You might have an iron deficiency
Many people living with an iron deficiency don’t even realize it’s the reason they’re struggling with fatigue, anxiety and a lack of concentration. Ontario is changing guidelines on recognizing iron deficiencies — and experts say the move will change lives.
Bringing home Haida Gwaii’s treasures
A museum on Haida Gwaii is bringing home Indigenous artifacts held by collectors around the world — reclaimed treasures that are helping to revive ancient Haida traditions.
U.S. should cut its own hostage deal with Hamas: negotiator
Long-time hostage negotiator Mickey Bergman says the U.S. should now bypass Israel and make its own deal to free the American hostages held by Hamas. He talks to Matt Galloway about what such a deal might look like, and how Israel might respond.
How Jasper is rebuilding from the ashes
Brian Cornforth is sifting through the ashes in Jasper, hoping to find his mother’s wedding rings in the wreckage of her house. The CBC’s Allison Dempster met Cornforth in the fire-ravaged town, where people who have lost everything are taking the first steps on the road to recovery.
Haida Gwaii’s future, Haida Gwaii’s past
Generations of Indigenous people have fought to protect the land and culture of Haida Gwaii, and this year the Haida Nation has reclaimed stewardship of that land in a historic agreement. Matt Galloway went there to hear what this means for the archipelago’s future — from uncertainty over property rights to hopes that colonization will be a “a blip” in Haida Gwaii’s history.
The benefits of being idle
In her new book Going to Seed, Kate J. Neville reflects on the value of being idle, and the importance of escaping the busyness that builds up around family, work and social demands.
Overheated looks at impact of rising temperatures
Three CBC Radio shows are teaming up to investigate how rising temperatures affect our lives and the world around us. We talk to Quirks and Quarks’ Bob McDonald, White Coat Black Art’s Brian Goldman and What On Earth’s Laura Lynch about their special series Overheated.
Canada and China are in a tariff tit for tat
Ottawa slapped big tariffs on Chinese-made EVs last month, and now Beijing has announced an anti-dumping probe of Canadian canola. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen looks at what this all means for Canadian producers — and the country’s already fraught relationship with China.
The NDP tore up the Liberal deal. Why now?
The NDP has ripped up its supply-and-confidence deal with the Liberals, raising questions of whether an election may be imminent. Parliamentary reporters Stephanie Levitz and Ryan Tumilty unpack what prompted the surprise decision, and what happens next.
How soccer star Atiba Hutchinson chased his beautiful dream
Atiba Hutchinson grew up playing soccer on a patchy field behind his school in Brampton, Ont. — a long way from captaining the Canadian men’s team at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Hutchinson shares the highs and lows of that journey in his new memoir, The Beautiful Dream.
Could Montreal become the Canadian city that never sleeps?
Montreal officials are planning “nocturnal zones” where bars, restaurants and theatres could remain open until 6 a.m., but the move to extend nightlife hours is getting a mixed reaction.
Does Yoshua Bengio regret helping to create AI?
Yoshua Bengio helped to create artificial intelligence, and now he wishes he’d included an off switch. The Montreal computer scientist explains why he’s worried about the rapidly developing technology, and how it could be reined in.
Nantali Indongo and 20 years of Nomadic Massive
Musician and CBC host Nantali Indongo shares her excitement about rejoining the hip-hop supergroup Nomadic Massive for their 20th anniversary later this month.
Liberal MP Anthony Housefather on antisemitism in Canada
Liberal MP Anthony Housefather discusses the NDP’s surprise decision to rip up the supply-and-confidence deal with his party, and how the conflict in the Middle East is fuelling divisions here in Canada.
Parents worry overcrowded N.B. schools can’t meet kids’ needs
New Brunswick’s schools are scrambling to keep up with dramatic population growth, with some resorting to turning cafeterias and libraries into classrooms. We talk to parents about the impact on their kids’ education.
Will a population boom blow up New Brunswick politics?
How does a population boom play into provincial politics? As New Brunswick heads to the polls next month, the CBC’s Jacques Poitras brings us the stories of newcomers, and how they’re shaping the debate on everything from housing and healthcare to pronouns in schools.
Student housing shortage is ‘desperate’ across Canada
The housing crisis for post-secondary students is so bad that some are paying double rent or turning living rooms into bedrooms just to ensure they have somewhere to live. We hear about the frustration and anxiety for students across the country.
Telling jokes in P.E.I., where everyone knows everyone
Comedian Patrick Ledwell says P.E.I. can stand for Privacy Ends Immediately. He talks to Matt Galloway about comedy in Canada's tiniest province, where everyone knows everyone.
Why people still love Anne of Green Gables
This year would have been the 150th birthday of Lucy Maud Montgomery, the famed P.E.I. author of Anne of Green Gables. We talk to some islanders and “Anne fangirls” who are excited to celebrate both the author and her creations.
P.E.I.’s controversial new medical school
P.E.I. is getting its first medical school, but critics say staffing it could mean fewer physicians serving the local community. We hear about the plan to invest in young doctors who might make P.E.I. their home — and the impact on an already stretched health-care system.
Rethinking how we teach kids to read
Several provinces are rethinking how they teach kids to read, with a “back-to-basics” focus that includes phonics. We hear about long-running disagreements over the best way to teach literacy, and why many Canadian kids are struggling.
Educators say more accommodations needed for students with complex needs
Then, educators say there aren’t enough accommodations for post-secondary students with complex needs. University of Toronto lecturer Simon Lewsen and Seanna Takacs with the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services discuss what needs to happen next.
A legal right to a family doctor?
Jane Philpott says every Canadian should have a legal right to a family doctor and primary health care, in the same way that every Canadian child has a right to an education. In an interview from April, the physician and former health minister tells Matt Galloway about her pitch for a Primary Care Act, and what’s stopping politicians from rebuilding a health-care system that Canadians can be proud of.
Do B.C.’s new gig-worker regulations go too far, or not far enough?
New regulations for gig workers in British Columbia, which include a minimum wage of $20.88 an hour, take effect on Tuesday. And while businesses worry this will hurt their bottom line, gig workers say it does not go far enough.
New restrictions placed on women in Afghanistan
When the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan three years ago, the Taliban quickly seized control, implementing restrictions on women’s education and what they can wear and do. Now the Taliban has imposed further restrictions on what women can wear, and how they can use their voice. Afghans living in Canada say the international community needs to step in and protect the women of Afghanistan.
Canadian Paralympians hope to inspire in Paris
The 2024 Paralympic Games are officially underway. Canada has 126 athletes competing in 18 different sports, and some are already winning medals. Canadian Paralympians hope their performances in Paris will help inspire others.
What Sophie Grégoire Trudeau did next
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau says family life can get messy since her separation from the prime minister — but they’ve still got each other's backs. In an interview from April, she tells Matt Galloway about her new book, Closer Together, and why she wants to help Canadians build the emotional literacy needed to cope with the stresses of modern life.
How Tanya Talaga uncovered her family’s lost Indigenous history
When journalist Tanya Talaga's great uncle requested government documents about his mother, he was told she didn't exist. In her new book The Knowing, Talaga digs into how her family’s Indigenous identity was erased, and what that tells us about Canadian history.
How are NASA’s stranded astronauts coping?
The two astronauts stranded on the International Space Station won’t return to Earth until next year. Retired Canadian astronaut Dave Williams tells us how the astronauts may be coping with their extended stay in space — and what it all means for the burgeoning field of space tourism.
The 100-year-old swimmer smashing world records
Betty Brussel broke three swimming world records earlier this year, a few months before her 100th birthday. In a January conversation from our series Well Founded, we talk to researchers and older Canadians about the importance of staying active in your golden years.
Will violence escalate in the Middle East?
Israel’s recent exchange of heavy fire with Hezbollah in Lebanon has fuelled fears that the country’s assault on Gaza could expand into an all-out war in the wider region. We discuss those tensions, and the sticking points in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire negotiations.
Russian tech billionaire arrested in France
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has reportedly been arrested in France, on allegations that the messaging app facilitates crimes including child sexual abuse and drug trafficking. Journalist Darren Loucaides explains why the Russian billionaire's arrest has free speech advocates up in arms.
Trump wants to scrap Biden’s climate plan. Do Republicans agree?
Donald Trump says he’ll scrap many renewable energy policies if he’s elected U.S. president in November, but some Republicans are pushing back. Guest host Susan Ormiston looks at the future of green jobs and clean energy investments south of the border.
The teacher shortage is bad for kids — and bad for teachers too
What happens when a French teacher is suddenly asked to teach a math class? Or take over the metal workshop? Three teachers tell us about the pressures of being at the front of the class when some provinces are short thousands of educators.
The expectations that stifle young Black boys
Growing up as a young Black man, Matthew R. Morris felt hemmed in by expectations around race, masculinity and how people thought he should fit into Canadian society. In January, he talked to Matt Galloway about his journey from a difficult student with something to prove, to an educator and role model for Black youth.
What can the Liberals learn from the pivot to Kamala Harris?
The Democrats’ shift to Kamala Harris has rejuvenated the party’s election prospects. Will the Liberals be thinking about that — and Justin Trudeau’s leadership — as they meet for a cabinet retreat? And what’s Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre been up to this summer? Guest host Susan Ormiston talks to our national affairs panel: CBC’s Catherine Cullen, the Toronto Star’s Stephanie Levitz and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
People will die if safe consumption sites close, warns advocate
More than half of Ontario’s supervised drug consumption sites are slated to close, with the province promising to instead invest in new hubs focused on treatment and recovery. But many advocates say it shouldn’t be an either/or, and this move may lead to preventable deaths.
Carnegie Hall a dream come true for African youth orchestra
The Africa United Youth Orchestra made their debut in late July — and performed at Carnegie Hall less than a week later. We hear how this new orchestra made a dream come true for young musicians from all over the continent.
Kamala Harris makes her pitch for the presidency
Kamala Harris took centre stage to close the Democratic National Convention Thursday night, after a week of celebrity appearances, high-profile speeches and attacks on Donald Trump. The CBC’s Katie Simpson breaks down what was said and what lies ahead.
Meet Amy Burk, Canada’s goalball star
Goalball involves blindfolded athletes trying to physically block a ball with bells in it, something Amy Burk found “unbelievably insane” when she first tried it. But now she’s Canada’s team captain at her fifth Paralympics, with some advice for young athletes about taking risks.
Everything you need to know about the railroads lockout
CN Rail says that the Teamsters showed no desire or urgency to reach a deal before rail workers were locked out Thursday, but the union says that’s just not true. Guest host Connie Walker asks both sides what it will take to resolve this unprecedented shutdown.
Are conservative politicians embracing green policies?
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is making a dramatic u-turn towards wind power, after tearing up hundreds of renewable energy deals when he was first elected in 2018. We look at how Canada’s conservatives — both provincially and federally — are figuring out how climate change and green policies fit with their governments, their platforms and their voters.
Was that really Taylor Swift endorsing Donald Trump?
(Spoiler: no, it was not.) This week Donald Trump shared fake AI-generated images of the musician backing him for president, prompting an angry response from many a Swiftie. Wired reporter David Gilbert explains the role artificial intelligence is playing in this election.
How this Ontario town is attracting family doctors
Dr. Liz Touzel explains how an innovative model of primary care is attracting family physicians to her community in Napanee, Ont., and improving healthcare access.
Sifting through the wreckage in Jasper, Alta.
Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland shares what it's been like for his community to return home after a monster wildfire devoured about a third of their town, leaving some parts of it unrecognizable.
High hopes ahead of Democratic National Convention
Democratic National Convention kicks off today in Chicago. Kamala Harris’s nomination makes her the first Black woman and the first Asian American to lead a majority party into a U.S. election. Her supporters hope she will show that anyone can hold the highest office in the country.
WHO calls for international support amid mpox outbreak in Africa
Countries across Africa are struggling with an outbreak of mpox. Now, the World Health Organization is calling for international support. It's estimated at least 17,000 people have been infected by a new strain of the virus this year, and more than 500 people have died. But the new strain hasn’t been detected in Canada.
Single parents say Canada’s policies don’t work for their families
Ashley Casciato says juggling life as a single parent is like being a duck: calm and serene on the surface, but paddling frantically underneath. In an interview from April, Matt Galloway talks to single parents about navigating systems that were designed for two-parent families, how better government support could help their families thrive, and the stigma that persists around solo parents.
Let It Shine: The power of gospel music
Alisa Siegel’s documentary Let it Shine tells the story of the University of Toronto’s first-ever course in Black gospel music, where you can hear the joy and community of a newly formed choir.
These Canadians struck gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Canada had a historic 2024 Olympics in Paris. Canadians took home 27 medals, which is the most ever for Canada in a non-boycotted Olympic Games. Guest host Susan Bonner speaks with three Canadians who scored gold for Canada.
Temporary foreign workers being abused in Canada: UN report
A UN report says Canada’s temporary foreign worker program is a "breeding ground for contemporary forms of slavery." Guest host Susan Bonner hears about the increasing criticism of the low-wage program, and what it means for vulnerable workers.
Trekking 2,400 km across Canada — by bike, canoe and snowshoe
Dianne Whelan was at a turning point in her life when she decided to travel across Canada — by bike, canoe and snowshoe — along the Trans Canada Trail. In February she spoke to Matt Galloway about what she learned and her documentary, 500 Days in the Wild.
Ukraine-Russia war takes a surprising turn
Ukraine says it now controls dozens of towns and villages in Russia’s Kursk region, following a surprising incursion. We hear what this might mean for the course of this relentless war — from Ukrainian morale to Russia’s likely response.
What’s it really like to live in a lighthouse?
British Columbia is looking for lighthouse keepers — the perfect job if you like rugged coastlines, working with your hands and lots of time by yourself. In January, Matt Galloway spoke to former lighthouse keepers Caroline Woodward and Barry Porter about a life that’s all about isolation, wild weather and saving lives.
Cracking down on fentanyl 'superlabs' in Canada
Organized crime groups have stopped importing fentanyl and started making the deadly opioid here on Canadian soil instead. We hear what’s being done to tackle these "superlabs."
Jasper residents can return home Friday. What will they find?
Mike Day says his home is now just a “smouldering hole in the ground” after wildfires ripped through Jasper, Alta. Guest host Susan Bonner talks to Day as he gets ready to return to his community, and hears what can be done to help relieve the anguish of lost homes and businesses.
$100,000 signing bonus? How some towns are luring doctors
Signing bonuses of $100,000, a free car, free gym memberships — municipalities are offering perks like these to doctors willing to move to their communities. But while some towns say the offers are working, some critics call it a race to the bottom.
The incredible power of the humble hug
What is it about a hug that can feel so special? Why can some human touch, even from a stranger, make such a difference to your day? In January, Matt Galloway spoke to Michael Banissy, who tries to answer those questions in his book Touch Matters.
Can you trust your own memory?
Why can you remember your high school locker combination — but not where you left your keys? And can you be sure your memories are accurate? Neuroscientist Charan Ranganath spoke to Matt Galloway in March about why we remember certain things and struggle with others.
Rattled Britons push back against far-right riots
After a week of far-right rioting in the U.K., counter protesters took to the streets to protect asylum seekers and immigration centres. We hear from a store owner caught up in the violence, and look at the politics that fuelled it.
How to spot a shooting star during the Perseid meteor shower
“Backyard astronomer” Gary Boyle shares some tips on getting the best view of the Perseid meteor shower, which is meant to be extra special when it peaks in the coming days.
Trump said disabled people should just die: nephew
When Fred Trump III asked his uncle Donald Trump for money to help with his disabled son’s medical care, he says the former U.S. president suggested letting the young man die instead. Fred talks to guest host Susan Bonner about the incident and his new book All in the Family: The Trumps and How We Got This Way.
Helping the children suffering in Gaza
Israel’s continued bombardment of Gaza has left children facing disease, malnutrition and the hidden wounds of psychological trauma. We talk to two people on the ground trying to help: UNICEF’s Salim Oweis; and Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, deputy medical co-ordinator for Doctors Without Borders in Gaza.
The moment the landslide dam burst in B.C.
A landslide that blocked the Chilcotin River for days in northern B.C. has burst, to send a massive gush of water and debris down the Fraser River. Research scientist Brian Menounos tells us what he saw when that dam breached, and what it means for the local community.
A judge ruled Google has an illegal monopoly. What happens next?
Google has violated antitrust law and created an illegal monopoly over online searches, a U.S. federal judge ruled this week. What might this mean for the tech giant, and the way we search?
Protesters jubilant as prime minister flees Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s prime minister fled the country after weeks of violent unrest, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus appointed to oversee an interim government. Human rights advocate Saad Hammadi talks to guest host Susan Bonner about what might happen next.
Why running mates matter in the race for the White House
Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, three weeks after Donald Trump chose Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance. Guest host Susan Bonner discusses the pivotal role that these potential vice presidents will play in the race for the White House.
How online hate and lies fuelled violent U.K. riots
Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard says he’s embarrassed and ashamed of an attempt to set fire to a hotel housing asylum seekers on Sunday, as well as the wider anti-immigration riots that have flared up across the U.K. We hear what happened, and how online hate and disinformation about a recent mass stabbing have fuelled the violence.
How to rebuild following the destruction of a wildfire
Just over a week after a devastating wildfire tore through Jasper, Alta., the community is starting to rebuild — and residents are looking at how other communities have overcome similar devastation.
Why birding is ‘quietly radical’
Ed Yong has “birder derangement syndrome,” a condition that’s entirely made up but may be familiar to other birding enthusiasts. In a conversation from May, the science writer tells Matt Galloway how the joy of birding saved him from pandemic burnout and radically changed how he interacts with nature.
How the internet opened a ‘torrent of incoming generosity
In a conversation with Matt Galloway in March, TED curator Chris Anderson talks about how he sees generosity as inherent in all of us. In his new book Infectious Generosity: The Ultimate Idea Worth Spreading, he explores how we can use the internet to change lives for the better.
The nerves and joy of raising an Olympian
While Canadian athletes deal with the pressure of competing at the Olympic Games, their parents are just as nervous, or even more. Guest host Juanita Taylor talks to some of the parents who raised Olympic athletes and are now cheering them on in Paris.
Why tornados continue to fascinate
Storm chasing has seen a resurgence because of the success of the summer blockbuster Twisters. Meteorologist Sean Waugh was a consultant on the new film. He tells us about doing everything from designing props, advising on the science, and taking the cast on a storm chase.
How communities are becoming more fire resilient
With hundreds of wildfires burning across Western Canada, many communities are taking steps to become more fire resilient. In Yukon, authorities have built a fuel break around Whitehorse. And Bakerville, a historic B.C. town, is set to reopen after a sprinkler system was able to protect a majority of the buildings from wildfire.
Protests erupt in Venezuela over election results
Protests have erupted across Venezuela over the results of the country’s recent presidential election. The country’s electoral authority declared President Nicolás Maduro won Sunday’s election, but the opposition says its candidate had more than twice as many votes as Maduro.
Bringing Inuit art and artifacts back to Nunavut
William Beveridge has been working for over two decades to build the Nunavut Inuit Heritage Centre that would house Inuit art and artifacts in Iqaluit, which are currently in museums and galleries in Canada and around the world.
Concerns of violence after death of Hamas leader
Top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh is dead. Hamas says he was assassinated in Tehran and is blaming Israel for the attack. Israel has yet to officially comment on Haniyeh's death, but Egypt, Qatar and Turkey are warning this could incite further violence, and Iran's supreme leader is promising vengeance.
Canada Soccer battles controversy at 2024 Olympics
The Canadian women’s soccer team is fighting to keep the Olympic dream alive amid controversy. A team analyst was caught using a drone to spy on New Zealand's practices before the start of the Olympics, leading to FIFA banning three coaches and docking the team six points in the competition, the equivalent of two wins.
Rural Indigenous communities struggle to keep health-care facilities running
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in northern Manitoba has just three nurses caring for more than 3,000 people. And it’s not just Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Nursing stations in remote First Nations communities in the province faced a 67 per cent vacancy rate in the last fiscal year, according to government data.
What’s next for those who lost their homes in Jasper wildfire
People are starting to get a better picture of the devastation caused by wildfire in the town of Jasper. It has people considering their next steps, and across Canada, communities are thinking about how to make their own areas more resilient to wildfire.
Jasmin Paris on being the first woman to finish the Barkley Marathons
In a conversation from April, Jasmin Paris tells The Current’s Matt Galloway about becoming the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, one of the most gruelling ultramarathons in the world.
Confusion over Venezuela’s presidential election
Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition party both claimed they won the country’s presidential election on Sunday. Freelance journalist Manuel Rueda says a lack of transparency is to blame, and it won’t be an easy mess to untangle.
Hundreds dead, thousands arrested amid protests in Bangladesh
Demonstrations over a job quota system in Bangladesh have ballooned into nationwide protests calling for the country’s prime minister to resign. Nearly 200 people have been killed and more than 2,000 protesters have been arrested.
Family speaks out about intimate partner violence after 17-year-old’s death
Brett Broadfoot of London, Ont., is mourning the death of his daughter after she was stabbed and killed by her boyfriend of eight months. Police say the situation is linked to intimate partner violence, which the City of London declared an epidemic last year.
Wildfire damages 30 to 50 per cent of buildings in Jasper, officials say
Officials say the wildfire in Jasper, Alta., has destroyed 30 to 50 per cent of the town’s buildings and grown to 36,000 hectares. Fire crews from across the world are now arriving in Jasper to help fight the blaze.
Assessing losses in Jasper as wildfire rips through
As wildfire rips through Jasper, residents are starting to learn of the damage that’s been done. The fire has destroyed multiple buildings, including the Maligne Lodge hotel and the grounds of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.
Preparing for the 2024 Olympic Games
There’s been drama and excitement ahead of the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games. The CBC’s Chief Correspondent Adrienne Arsenault tells us what we can expect in Paris.
Benjamin Netanyahu meets cheers and protest in Washington
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed U.S. Congress yesterday, and while he received cheers inside, thousands of people in Washington, D.C., protested the war in Gaza.
The high cost of living in a remote N.W.T. town
The mayor of the remote town of Norman Wells in the Northwest Territories is worried about the cost of living in his community. Frank Pope says the community is struggling after lower water levels have meant barges haven’t been able to get key supplies across the Mackenzie River.
Disease puts P.E.I. oysters at risk
Oysters in P.E.I are at risk. A disease known as multinuclear sphere X (MSX) has been discovered in oysters from Bedeque Bay. If there’s a mass outbreak, there’s concern from those in the industry that the oyster population could take a long time to recover.
Wildfire forces thousands to flee Jasper
At least 25,000 people have been forced to evacuate the community of Jasper, Alta., and Jasper National Park because of an encroaching wildfire. Now people are waiting to hear if their property is lost, and when they’ll be allowed back.
Tick-borne illnesses are on the rise, experts say
Medical experts say the number of ticks, which can carry dangerous pathogens, are on the rise. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, as well as anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus. Experts say people need to be informed about these diseases and what they can do to prevent them.
K-pop is experimenting with AI, but some are skeptical
One of the biggest music genres is experimenting with the power of artificial intelligence. The K-pop group Seventeen used AI to help promote the music video for its single Maestro. But it’s far from the only way AI is seeping its way into the industry. And while some people say it’s a useful tool, others believe it doesn’t have a place in K-pop.
'We need the balance': Benefits and drawbacks of supervised injection sites
Supervised consumption sites have been around for decades in provinces across Canada. The sites give drug users a supervised space to consume drugs, get their supply tested and receive clean equipment. But Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has called on the federal government to shut down some of these programs, citing concerns that they attract drug dealing and other crime, making them part of the problem, not the solution.
With Biden out, what's next for the Democrats?
U.S. President Joe Biden announced he was stepping down from the presidential race on Sunday. He said that the decision was best for the party and country, and that he would endorse Vice-President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. So what’s next for the presidential election and the Democratic Party?
Why ‘risky play’ is important for kids
The Canadian Pediatric Society says "risky play" is good for kids’ mental, physical and social health — even if it might result in injury. In an interview from January, we hear what’s behind this new advice, why ”incredibly boring playgrounds” are part of the problem, and why parents might need to just take a deep breath.
What a Donald Trump presidency could look like
Donald Trump has officially accepted his third nomination for president at the Republican National Convention on Thursday night. Guest host Duncan McCue speaks with the CBC’s Katie Simpson and international politics professor Daniel Drezner about how we got here, and what a Trump presidency might look like.
Going to the Olympics — as a poet
Phylicia George has competed in both the summer and winter Olympics, and now she’s heading to the 2024 Paris Games as a spoken word poet. She explains why poetry and sport make great teammates.
How ‘sponge cities’ could protect against floods
Record-breaking rainfall wreaked havoc in Toronto this week, flooding homes and businesses, and turning highways into rivers. Guest host Duncan McCue hears how building “sponge cities” could help to protect Canadians against this kind of flash flooding.
Water returns to Lahaina’s charred landscape
The wildfires that destroyed Lahaina in Hawaii last year have led to something of an ecological reset. For decades, the area was drained dry by sugar plantations and developers, but now water has returned. That’s sparking hope for the restoration of Lahaina’s ancient and sacred wetlands.
Fixing provincial relations with Ottawa
As provincial premiers gather for their annual summer meetings in Halifax this week, there’s a focus on the provinces’ relationship with the federal government. Guest host Duncan McCue speaks with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew about what needs to change.
Who gets to compete in women’s sports?
Since the very beginning of women’s sports, there has been a struggle to define who, exactly, gets to compete in the women’s category. A century later, the struggle is still very much alive. Rose Eveleth hosts the new CBC podcast Tested, which explores a question that goes far beyond sports: What is fair and who decides?
Former U.S. ambassador says democracy at stake in upcoming election
As political drama continues to heat up south of the border, former U.S. ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman is concerned about both presidential candidates and their fitness to serve. He says American democracy is at stake in the coming election, and each choice comes with its pitfalls.
Youth unemployment rates hit all-time high in Canada
The numbers show that youth unemployment is at an all-time high. Statistics Canada shows that unemployment rates among youth aged 15 to 24 are the highest they’ve been since 2014, excluding during parts of the pandemic. That means young people are struggling to earn enough to get by and aren’t developing much-needed skills.
What the attempt on Trump’s life means for U.S. politics
An assassination attempt on former U.S. president Donald Trump has inflamed fears of political violence south of the border. How might it change the campaign for the presidency — and the U.S. political landscape?
Has Ozempic sparked an insulin pen shortage in South Africa?
South Africa has run out of the injection pens that deliver insulin to diabetics, with some critics arguing that it’s a ripple effect of the popularity of drugs like Ozempic in the west. Guest host Duncan McCue talks to Stephanie Nolen, a global health reporter for the New York Times.
Meet Jacob, the lion with more than nine lives
Jacob the three-legged lion has survived poachers and a death-defying swim across crocodile-infested waters. We talk to a biologist who's been tracking him to find out what Jacob’s story tells us about the human impact on lion populations in Africa.
All eyes on Biden at NATO summit
U.S. President Joe Biden was supposed to discuss NATO’s future after a summit in Washington, but reporters focused on his own political future. We unpack what we learned.
What do women want? Pockets!
There’s a lot of history tucked into the pockets of our clothing, including a long-standing frustration that women’s clothes tend not to have them. In a conversation from December, design expert Hannah Carlson digs into the patriarchy folded into what we wear every day.
How to be a good tourist
Residents in Barcelona have been squirting tourists with water guns in protest of mass tourism that they say is driving up rents and overwhelming public spaces. If you're travelling this summer, how can you be a respectful tourist who contributes to local communities?
Why people are breaking up with dating apps
Dating apps were once touted as a technological breakthrough in human connection, but more people are growing weary of swipe culture. We hear why things like “ghosting” are driving frustrated singles back to the real world, and how they can make the apps work for them again.
Do Ontario’s liquor sales need reform?
Workers at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario are striking over fears for their jobs, sparked by Premier Doug Ford’s plan to allow alcohol sales at convenience and grocery stores. Guest host Mark Kelley looks at what the LCBO offers the province right now, and what opening up competition might mean.
What Copa America means for soccer in Canada
Canada lost to Argentina in the Copa America semifinals Tuesday. But soccer journalist John Molinaro says even getting that far is “a big shot in the arm” for the sport’s fortunes in this country, and the fans who love it.
The AC dilemma: Cooler homes but a warming planet
The hotter things get, the more people blast the air conditioning — but more AC means more emissions warming the planet. Guest host Mark Kelley teases out this tricky conundrum, and asks why the technology that keeps us cool isn’t more energy efficient.
Fighting stereotypes about Africa — with sarcasm
Is there any water in Africa? Are there houses? Those are the kinds of questions that Nigerian influencer Charity Ekezie was getting on her TikTok videos, so she decided to reply — with a healthy dose of sarcasm.
Should Biden stay or go?
U.S. President Joe Biden says he’s not going anywhere, despite mounting calls for him to step aside and let someone else contest November’s presidential election. We talk to Democrats on both sides of the debate, and look at what picking a new candidate might look like.
Christopher Morales Williams and the world record that wasn’t
Canadian sprinter Christopher Morales Williams set a 400-metre world record earlier this year, but a technicality meant it wasn’t ratified. Unfazed, the 19-year-old says it’s motivated him to go and break that record all over again. He talks to guest host Mark Kelley about taking that determination to the Paris Olympics, and how he combats nerves and nausea before a big race.
French voters quell far right surge
A left-wing alliance has beaten Marine Le Pen’s far-right party into third place in France’s snap election, according to exit polls. But with no party winning a majority and the prospect of a hung parliament, what turbulence lies ahead?
Alice Munro's daughter reveals stepfather’s abuse
Andrea Robin Skinner, daughter of Canadian author Alice Munro, told the Toronto Star she was sexually abused by her stepfather as a child, but her mother chose to support her husband. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to Star reporter Deborah Dundas; and Maria Barcelos, who works with survivors of sexual abuse.
Can the U.K.’s new prime minister deliver change?
The Labour Party has won a landslide victory in the U.K., ending 14 years of Conservative rule. Can new Prime Minister Keir Starmer bring about the change the electorate has demanded?
NASA insists astronauts aren’t stranded in space
Boeing's Starliner test mission reached the International Space Station a month ago — but its return has been delayed indefinitely. We hear why NASA insists its astronauts aren’t stranded, and what it’s going to take to bring them back to Earth.
A love song for lusty cicadas
Earlier this year, more than a trillion cicadas from two separate broods emerged together for the first time since 1803. In May, we spoke to one very excited entomologist — and heard the love song he wrote to the insects.
Could Nova Scotia host a retirement home for whales?
Two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, could soon retire from a French marine park to become the first residents of a proposed whale sanctuary in Port Hilford, N.S. Guest host Nahlah Ayed hears about the logistics of building a first-of-its-kind, 40-hectare enclosure in the open bay — and why critics worry Nova Scotia’s harsher weather might make it too difficult to maintain.
What Apple’s AI plan means for your phone
Apple is getting ready to incorporate a slate of AI tools into its devices. We hear how it could revolutionize not just how you use your phone, but how you communicate.
Dermatologist dispels dangerous myths about sunscreen
Dangerous misinformation about sunscreen is spreading on social media, even as rates of skin cancer continue to rise. Dermatologist Dr. Sunil Kalia applies the facts about SPF.
Helping Sudanese women fleeing sexual violence
Women fleeing civil war in Sudan are falling victim to sexual and gender-based violence, even as they seek refuge in neighbouring Chad. The Current's Elizabeth Hoath brings us the stories of four women — and the staggering challenge for aid workers trying to help.
Hurricane Beryl wreaking havoc on island nations
Hurricane Beryl is barrelling toward Jamaica after wreaking havoc on St. Vincent and the Grenadines. How can small island nations be protected from the threat of extreme weather and climate change — and how much responsibility lies with larger nations?
What the Supreme Court immunity ruling means for Trump
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that presidents are entitled to immunity with some limits, but one dissenting justice warns the decision makes the president “a king above the law." Guest host Nahlah Ayed talks to law professor and Supreme Court expert Eric Segall.
U.S. government says Adobe makes subscriptions too hard to cancel
The U.S. government is suing software company Adobe, saying the company deliberately makes its subscriptions difficult to cancel. A professor of marketing explains how deceptive design keeps you locked into subscriptions — and how to avoid tricky cancellation policies.
What shape are Canada’s centennial architecture projects in?
The Ontario Science Centre closed its doors for the last time on June 21 due to structural issues. The building is one of Canada’s centennial projects, erected in 1967 to celebrate the country’s 100-year anniversary. Toronto Metropolitan University’s Colin Ripley discusses the current state of other centennial projects across the nation.
Growing threat of all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah
Fears that missile fire between Israel and militant group Hezbollah could lead to a full-scale war in Lebanon are growing. Close to 500 people have been killed in the hostilities so far and several countries have urged their citizens in the country to leave. Dahlia Scheindlin and Hussein Ibish join guest host Nahlah Ayed to discuss what might lead to all-out war, and what needs to be done to de-escalate tensions.
Long-time broadcaster Scott Russell to retire after Paris Paralympics
After 40 years as a broadcaster for CBC Sports, Scott Russell will retire from hosting duties following the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris this summer. Russell spoke with Matt Galloway about his long career, and what comes next.
Lies and stumbles: Donald Trump and Joe Biden duke it out in first debate
U.S. President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump faced off in their first debate of the 2024 presidential election on Thursday night. Who came on top? Columnist John Fund and Democratic strategist Craig Varoga discuss the debate with Matt Galloway.
Lives in limbo at a Chad refugee camp
Inside a refugee camp in Chad, we speak with two men whose lives have been uprooted by Sudan’s civil war. They share their stories of fleeing violence, trying to protect and provide for their families — and whether they have any hope of one day getting to go home.
Why reality TV stars deserve our sympathy
In her new book, Cue the Sun!, TV writer Emily Nussbaum explores the history and influence of reality TV, from bug eating in the jungle to getting Donald Trump elected president.
What drove Shannon Phillips out of politics?
Alberta MLA Shannon Phillips is quitting politics, calling out what she says is a toxic environment that is driving women out of elected office. She talks to Matt Galloway about being snooped on by Lethbridge police officers, and why she refuses to be a victim.
Raising boys in an age of ‘impossible masculinity’
Ruth Whippman says young boys today are told to be strong — but also told that masculinity itself is toxic. In her new book BoyMom, the mother of three sons argues we’re failing young boys and need to change how we nurture them into better men.
The Calgarian helping refugees find water in the desert
We visit a refugee camp in Chad where water is desperately scarce in 40-degree heat — and talk to a Calgary geophysicist who went there to help find water buried deep in the desert.
Heartbreak and hope for Oilers fans
The Edmonton Oilers had their hopes dashed in the Stanley Cup final Monday night. But fans say they’ll be back next year, and this small team with big dreams is still “a force to be reckoned with.”
What a shock byelection result means for Trudeau’s future
The federal Conservatives won a shocking byelection victory in Toronto-St. Paul's on Monday night, a seat held by the Liberals for more than 30 years. The Toronto Star's Stephanie Levitz explains why this was a “calculated” win for the Conservatives, and what it might mean for Justin Trudeau’s future as Liberal leader.
What you should read this summer
Two indie bookstore owners share their recommendations for the best books this summer, from a road trip novel — without a road trip — to a book about how to age disgracefully.
Oilers fans’ excitement reaching fever pitch
We head to Edmonton where excited Oilers fans say they’re pinching themselves ahead of Monday night’s game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals — and the chance to bring the cup back to Canada.
Catholic hospitals and medical assistance in dying
Samantha O'Neill chose medical assistance in dying last year, facing terminal cervical cancer and excruciating pain. But her Catholic hospital in B.C. opposes MAID and refuses to provide it, forcing O’Neill to be transferred elsewhere. Her father Jim O'Neill is now suing the hospital’s operator and the province, saying Samantha’s transfer caused unnecessary pain and denied his daughter a dignified death.
They lost everything fleeing Sudan, but they can’t go back
At the Chad border, there’s a steady stream of donkeys pulling carts piled high with people’s belongings, everything they’ve been able to carry as they flee the brutal conflict in Sudan. The Current’s Liz Hoath went there to speak with refugees, and the aid workers struggling to help.
Why losing 2-0 is still something to be proud of
Canada’s men’s soccer team played their first ever game at the Copa America tournament on Thursday — and lost 2-0 to world champions Argentina. Soccer journalist John Molinaro explains why that’s still something to be proud of.
What can you gain from looking an animal in the eye?
Sam Anderson gets eye-to-eye with manatees, pufflings and even an eruption of bats in his new podcast, Animal. He explains why we’ve never been more distant from the creatures all around us — and what it might mean to get closer.
As heat waves hit, should cooling be a human right?
Climate expert Blair Feltmate says governments need to treat cooling as a human right, especially as summer heat waves intensify. If they don’t, he warns that the death toll from events like heat domes could rise into the thousands.
Wildfire fighters are burning out, right when they’re needed most
Close calls and mental fatigue are pushing B.C.’s experienced wildfire fighters to quit, right as fire seasons get longer and harsher. In her documentary The Burn, Joan Webber looks at what that means for the less experienced workers who replace them — and the communities they’re trying to protect.
Why Paris will be Maggie Mac Neil’s final Olympics
Olympic gold medallist Maggie Mac Neil has accomplished everything she wanted to in swimming, and now wants to make room for other things in her life. She talks to Matt Galloway about the weight of expectations as she heads to compete in Paris, and what comes next.
Rebound reignites hope for Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers have battled their way back into contention for the Stanley Cup. As they face a do-or-die game 7 on Friday, we check in with a city craving a championship.
Nervous wait as wildfire threatens Churchill Falls, N.L.
Hundreds of residents were hastily evacuated as a wildfire threatened Churchill Falls, N.L., on Wednesday. Matt Galloway gets the latest from John Gaudi, guest host of Labrador Morning.
Should social media come with a warning label?
The U.S. surgeon general is calling for a warning label on social media, citing mental health risks for teens. Would warnings similar to the ones on cigarettes make a difference?
Why the internet should be more than a shopping mall
Nora Young knew technology was inherently political when she created Spark in 2007, mere months after the iPhone was unveiled. As the CBC Radio show ends its 17-year run, she says we should be demanding more from the technologies that shape our lives.
Accusations linger as House rises for summer
Politicians in Ottawa take their summer break, our national affairs panel dissects a session preoccupied with foreign interference — and accusations on all sides. Matt Galloway talks to the CBC’s Rosemary Barton, the Toronto Star’s Stephanie Levitz and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
Which cities use the same kind of pipe that burst in Calgary?
The water main that failed in Calgary was a prestressed concrete cylinder pipeline, a type of infrastructure that has ruptured in other places, too. What other Canadian cities rely on these pipes?
Great white sharks are making a comeback in Canada
More great white sharks are appearing off Canada's east coast. We hear why that’s a win for conservation — and what it means for humans heading down to the beach.
Who should clean up trillions of discarded cigarette butts?
Many people think cigarette butts are biodegradable, but in reality they stick around for years, leaking chemicals and microplastics into the environment. We hear about a push to educate smokers and hold big tobacco companies responsible for their products.
We’re living longer. How can we make those years rewarding?
People are living much longer these days, but economics professor Andrew Scott says our society isn’t set up to support that. His new book The Longevity Imperative looks at the major overhauls needed to make a longer life rewarding, from employment to health care.
What Sebastian Junger saw as he lay dying
Sebastian Junger felt the pull of a deep black void as he lay bleeding to death in a hospital trauma room in 2020. The war correspondent and lifelong atheist tells Matt Galloway how close he came to death in that moment, and how it forced him to reconsider the idea of an afterlife.
Seniors with dementia often go missing. What can be done?
Earl Moberg was 81 and had advanced dementia when he went missing last year. He was never found. Matt Galloway talks to his daughter Britt Moberg about the changes she wants to see in senior care to stop this happening to other families.
How our discarded drugs are sparking sex changes in fish
New research shows that discarded pharmaceutical drugs are having an alarming impact on wildlife — even causing sex reversals in some species. We talk to researcher Karen Kidd.
Inside the Situation Room, where history and crisis collide
From the Kennedy assassination to the raid that killed Osama bin Laden, U.S. presidents tackle their pressing crises in the Situation Room. Former White House staffer George Stephanopoulos takes us inside that bunker — and some defining moments in history.
Malindi Elmore retired from Olympic running — now she’s back
Olympian Malindi Elmore retired from track running in 2012. Now at 44, she’s back and competing in the marathon at the Paris Olympics. She talks to Matt Galloway about losing her passion for racing, and how she got it back.
Talks swirl as peace in Ukraine remains elusive
The war in Ukraine has been the subject of a flurry of conferences this week, from a peace summit in Switzerland — without Russia — to the G7 summit in Italy. Will all these talks bring the country any closer to peace?
They're not Indigenous, but they're learning Indigenous languages
Junaid Khan is one of a growing number of non-Indigenous people in Canada learning Indigenous languages. We listen back to Duncan McCue’s 2023 documentary about the swell of interest in Indigenous languages across Canada.
Calgarians grapple with water crisis
It’s been a week since a “catastrophic” main break forced people in Calgary to limit their water use — thinking twice about everything from doing laundry to flushing the toilet. Guest host Duncan McCue checks in with Calgarians, and asks what we can learn from this crisis.
Why the lunch hour isn't what it used to be
Many workers just don’t head out for a sit-down lunch with colleagues anymore, opting instead to eat quickly at their desks. What does our midday meal say about our modern lives?
Are you paying too much in rent? Find out here
Traditional wisdom suggests your rent shouldn’t exceed 30 per cent of your pay, but some Canadians could be forking out twice that much. We ask people to try a new interactive CBC tool that tells you what your rent should be based on your income — and look at how it impacts your financial future.
What parents need to know before a child's tonsil surgery
An Ontario hospital has paused all tonsil and adenoid surgeries for minors after two children died following surgery. We talk to ear, nose and throat specialist Dr. Blake Papsin about what parents need to know.
What might a future Palestinian state look like?
As negotiations for an Israel-Hamas ceasefire continue, discussions are slowly beginning to focus on what happens next — and what a future Palestinian state might look like.
Drip pricing is banned, but Canadians are still paying out
Drip pricing involves extra fees that show up at checkout, hiking the advertised cost of things such as movie tickets. It’s been banned by the Competition Bureau, but it’s still happening.
Should MPs who colluded with foreign states be unmasked?
A new national security report alleges that unnamed MPs and senators knowingly helped foreign governments meddle in Canadian politics. The allegation has prompted heated debate about whether their identities should be made public, and what consequences they might face.
What Kara Swisher really thinks about Elon Musk
Kara Swisher isn’t afraid to ask tough questions, or hold the men who lead big tech companies to account. The tech journalist talks to Matt Galloway about what she thinks of tech innovators like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk — and why she said no to job offers at every single one of the big tech companies.
Quebec premier pushes to cut temporary immigration
Quebec Premier Francois Legault says an "explosion" of temporary immigration has strained healthcare, education and housing in his province. But some business leaders and advocates say Quebec needs more newcomers, not fewer.
Far-right parties surge in EU elections
Far-right populist parties made major gains in EU parliamentary elections on the weekend, even triggering a snap general election in France. The CBC's Susan Ormiston brings us the latest from Brussels.
Could Calgary run out of water?
Calgarians have been told to cut back on water use or risk running out entirely, as the city struggles to repair a huge water main break. Matt Galloway talks to city councillor Sonya Sharp.
How Olympic race walker Evan Dunfee redefined success
Race walker Evan Dunfee was literally bumped out of a medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, but went on to win bronze five years later. Now he’s gearing up for Paris with a new definition of success, in a sport he describes as “running with rules.”
Inside the brain school
A decade ago, a group of primarily Indigenous children from Saskatchewan were part of a brainwave experiment that hoped to heal trauma. Now some are saying the study itself was traumatic and unethical. Geoff Leo explores the controversy in his documentary, Brain School
Inside a refugee camp in Chad
The Current's Liz Hoath takes us inside an overcrowded and under-resourced refugee camp in Chad, where more than a million people have fled the war in neighbouring Sudan.
Let It Shine: The power of gospel music
Alisa Siegel’s documentary Let it Shine tells the story of the University of Toronto’s first-ever course in Black gospel music, where you can hear the joy and community of a newly formed choir.
Should Sumas Prairie be turned back into a lake?
Catastrophic floods devastated B.C.’s Sumas Prairie in 2021, but now researchers want to avoid future disasters by flooding the area permanently, turning it back into the lake it once was. We hear from those who support a managed retreat — and those who would be forced out.
Excitement and nerves building for Oilers fans
Mary Loewen shows her passion for the Edmonton Oilers by going to games dressed as the Stanley Cup, covered in 3,500 silver sequins and wearing a glittery wig. Matt Galloway talks to Loewen — aka Mama Stanley — and fellow fan Stephen Pretty about staying “loyal to the Oil,” and their nerves and excitement as the team gears up for the Stanley Cup final.
Are more interest rate cuts coming?
The Bank of Canada lowered its key interest rate to 4.75 per cent, offering some relief to Canadians struggling to make ends meet. What will it mean for you and your money, and are further cuts on the horizon?
Ancient kids’ drawings show life in doomed Pompeii
Children’s drawings have been unearthed in the ruins of Pompeii, showing violent scenes of gladiators and the harsh lives of slaves. We explore how these youngest Romans saw their world before it was buried in the ash and lava of Mount Vesuvius.
Remembering the Regina Rifles on D-Day
A statue remembering the Royal Regina Rifles has been unveiled in France, near the Normandy beaches they stormed on D-Day 80 years ago. Retired lieutenant-colonel Ed Staniowski tells us about the sacrifice and determination of these ordinary men from Saskatchewan.
Salman Rushdie on the 27 seconds that nearly killed him
Author Salman Rushdie was attacked with a knife on a New York stage in 2022, suffering severe injuries and losing his eye. In a conversation from April, he tells Matt Galloway about writing to move past the attack and what he intends to do with his “second chance” at life.
U.K. voters have been through a lot
U.K. voters go to the polls next month after 14 years of Conservative rule marked by austerity, Brexit, the pandemic — and three prime ministers in just four years. We hear about the public mood, and what it might mean at the ballot box.
Having fun without alcohol
More Canadians are socializing without alcohol, prompting bars and businesses to up their game when it comes to mocktails and non-alcoholic beers. We hear what it's like to go on a non-alcoholic pub crawl through the bars of Montreal.
The benefits of ‘exercise snacking’
Matt Galloway takes a trip to McMaster University in Hamilton where a team of exercise researchers puts him through his paces. They explain how everyone can build fitness into their daily routine — even if all you have time for is an “exercise snack.”
Which brand of wellness works for you?
Colleen Derkatch, author of Why Wellness Sells, explains why we’re drawn to the promise of wellness, and why it always seems just out of reach
How ‘sense foraging’ can calm a busy mind
We join a forest bathing club in Toronto to learn about the mental wellness benefits of being in nature. Neuroscientist Norman Farb explains how “sense foraging” and tuning in to everyday sensations can help to calm your mind, or even get you out of a mental rut.
This running club is for Black women, by Black women
Allison Hill says jogging during the pandemic gave her a mental health boost every day. So she started the Hill Run Club, a body-positive, size-inclusive and culturally sensitive running group that aims to help Black women take care of themselves.
Why your approach to back pain could be all wrong
Canadians who suffer with back pain often try to avoid any kind of exertion that might make it worse. But Shawn Beaudette, a professor of kinesiology at Brock University in St. Catherines, Ont., says our spines are designed to move — and a diversity of movement might be just the thing you need.
Why the northern lights are heading south — again
A solar storm pushed the aurora borealis south last month to parts of the country that don't usually get to see the northern lights. We hear why these storms are becoming more common, and why researchers are both delighted and concerned.
Mexico votes in first woman president after bloody election
Claudia Sheinbaumb has won a landslide victory to become Mexico’s first female president, after a violent election in which 38 candidates were killed. We discuss the challenges she faces in confronting that bloodshed, and how her win could affect the U.S. election this fall.
How to have a happy and healthy gut
We look at the science of gut health as part of our series Well Founded, and learn about the gut microbiome’s important role in your overall physical and mental well-being.
Tackling air travel problems in Canada
The Competition Bureau wants to hear from Canadians about issues like lost luggage, long delays and rising fares ahead of a study into air travel in this country. Matt Galloway asks the bureau’s Anthony Durocher what can be done to get a better deal for passengers.
Voters brave 52 C heat in final days of India’s election
India is wrapping up its mammoth election amid a brutal heatwave, with record temperatures reaching 52.9 C. We look at what people are doing to stay cool, and whether the heat might have affected voter turnout.
If crows can count, what else can they do?
A new study suggests crows can count out loud, adding to research that shows they can make tools, remember faces and even hold funerals. What else might they be capable of?
Wegovy costs $400 a month. Should provinces pay?
The weight loss medication Wegovy is now available in Canada, at a cost of about $400 a month, indefinitely. Some advocates say the drug should be covered by provincial pharmacare plans — but not everyone thinks that’s a good idea.
How Trump’s conviction plays out in White House race
Donald Trump is the first former U.S. president to be convicted of a crime. What happens next, and what might that verdict mean for November’s election?
How can criminals steal entire herds of cattle?
An entire herd of about 75 Black Angus cattle was stolen from a farm in Quebec last week. Geoff Morrison, creator of TV series Farm Crime, talks us through how criminals could even pull off a heist that big — and where those cattle might go.
Jundies, janties, jikinis — denim is having a weird moment
Would you pay $1,000 for a pair of jeans that look like you had a bathroom accident? Or wear jundies or janties — jeans so short and tight they look like underwear? We hear why trends in denim are having a weird moment, and what that tells us about work, class and style.
Why loyalty for Mandela’s party is waning in South Africa
Nelson Mandela led the African National Congress to power in 1994, but the party’s 30-year majority could come to an end in a historic election this week. We hear why economic inequality has eroded loyalty for the party that many say freed South Africa from apartheid.
Josh Gibson is now baseball’s best hitter — almost 80 years after his death
Josh Gibson is now Major League Baseball’s all-time best hitter, after the MLB integrated stats from the previously excluded Negro Leagues — where Gibson played from 1930 to 1946. Matt Galloway talks to his great grandson Sean Gibson about what that recognition means.
What is Canada doing to end the fighting in Gaza?
Dozens of Palestinians were killed by an Israeli airstrike on Rafah Sunday, just days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt its military offensive there. Matt Galloway talks to Ahmad Abualjedian, who has family in Rafah; and asks Bob Rae, Canada's ambassador to the UN, where global diplomacy goes from here.
Sailing around the world — without GPS
Catheryne Langford spent 165 days sailing around the world — in a race that didn’t allow GPS. The Quebecer shares what it was like to rough it on the open sea, showering in buckets of seawater and relying on an old-fashioned sextant for navigation.
Jury deliberates in Trump hush money trial
The jury is set to deliberate in Donald Trump's hush money trial. The Washington Post’s Devlin Barrett takes us inside a wild trial that is already having political ramifications.
Push for more women in operating rooms
A new study suggests that hospitals with at least 35 per cent female surgeons and anesthesiologists had better patient outcomes, including fewer deaths, following surgery. We talk to a surgeon and an anesthesiologist about getting more women in the operating room.
How the McMaster encampment ended in compromise
The pro-Palestinian encampment at McMaster University in Hamilton has ended after protesters and the school agreed terms. Matt Galloway talks to encampment spokesperson Caleb Smolenaars about how they reached a compromise when other universities and protesters are at an impasse.
The couple who fought the Nazis behind enemy lines
Sonia and Guy d'Artois were part of a hidden force that parachuted into occupied France to help fight the Nazis during the Second World War. Nahlah Ayed tells the story of their love affair — and their mission behind enemy lines — in her new book The War We Won Apart.
Why Google’s new AI search can be ‘laughably inaccurate’
Tech writer Shira Ovide says that Google’s new AI-powered search tool has returned some laughably inaccurate results, including instructions to drink plenty of urine if you’re trying to pass a kidney stone. She explains what the push for AI means for finding reliable information online.
‘God’s influencer’: Miracles of the first millennial saint
Carlo Acutis is set to become the first millennial saint. We hear about the miracles attributed to the 15-year-old who died in 2006, and why his story is resonating with Catholics.
Unknown soldier comes home to Newfoundland
The remains of an unknown soldier have been returned to Newfoundland from France, more than 100 years after the First World War. We talk to veteran Berkley Lawrence and historian Frank Gogos about why it means so much to bring him home.
Evolving advice in concussion care
Mairlyn Smith has had four concussions and struggled with each recovery. But things changed when her most recent injury brought new medical advice. We hear about the evolving science around concussions, and why traditional advice may have actually hurt patients.
The mood in Ottawa — and how it affects you
Will a public service strike derail your vacation plans? Matt Galloway talks about the looming strike, the carbon tax and foreign interference with our national affairs panel: CBC’s Catherine Cullen, the Toronto Star’s Stephanie Levitz and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
A 50-year streak at the Ottawa marathon
Howard Cohen ran in the first Ottawa marathon in 1975 — and has completed every single marathon since. The 74-year-old doctor tells us about keeping up his streak, even after a long night spent delivering a baby.
Could walking backward push you to better health?
The newest online sensation is walking backwards, but does moving in reverse push people towards better health? As part of our series Well Founded, Galloway speaks with bio-mechanist Janet Dufek, who has been studying this type of exercise for more than two decades.
Why George Floyd’s uncle is still fighting for justice
Four years after the murder of George Floyd, his uncle Selwyn Jones talks about his continuing fight for racial justice.
U.S. sues Live Nation over monopoly concerns
The U.S. Justice Department is suing Ticketmaster and its parent company LiveNation, alleging that the company has created a monopoly that drives up ticket prices and hurts artists.
Got a job offer in a text? Here’s what scammers get out of
Have you ever responded to those spam texts offering jobs? Toronto Star reporter Alex Boyd did — she tells us what happened next.
Haiti’s growing humanitarian crisis
Gangs have controlled most of Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince for three months, pushing thousands out of their homes. Matt Galloway speaks with the CBC’s Paul Hunter, who just returned from the country; and Martine St. Victor, a Haitian in Montreal.
Finding Jennifer: How can someone disappear without a trace?
The Fifth Estate’s Mark Kelley explores Jennifer Hillier-Penney’s mysterious disappearance from Saint Anthony, N.L., in the documentary Finding Jennifer.
Life outdoors after a skin cancer diagnosis
Writer Claire Cameron loves being outdoors, but a skin cancer diagnosis changed her relationship with life outside. She tells us what changed after doctors said her ideal exposure to the sun would be none.
Seniors are using cannabis — and ending up in the ER
Many seniors are turning to cannabis for recreational or medicinal use — but a new study suggests some are ending up in the ER with accidental cannabis poisoning. Matt Galloway speaks with Dr. Nathan Stall about how to help seniors reduce the risk and enjoy the benefits.
Island nations win court battle in climate crisis
An international court has unanimously agreed that excessive greenhouse gases can cause irreversible harm to small island nations. Payam Akhavan, lead counsel representing the island states, explains the significance of this ruling.
Doping concerns ahead of the Paris Olympics
An investigation has found that 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance before the 2021 Olympics — but were still cleared to compete by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Several of those swimmers went on to win medals, and that’s not sitting well with some competitors heading into the 2024 Paris Olympics. Matt Galloway speaks with Travis Tygart, the CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, and Ross Wenzel, the general counsel for WADA.
The Russian rift dividing Europe
A shooting that injured Slovakia's pro-Russia Prime Minister Robert Fico has highlighted the divide in Europe over the Ukraine war. Political economist Sona Muzikarovaexplains the rift between east and west.
Why being alone can be good for you
We talk to Heather Hansen, co-author of Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone, about what can be gained from finding positivity in solitude.
Why turbulence is more common and severe
One person died after extreme turbulence caused a Singapore Airlines flight to drop 6,000 feet in a single minute. Atmospheric scientist Paul Williams explains why turbulence is becoming more severe — and why climate change is playing a role.
ICC requests arrest warrants for Israeli, Hamas officials
The International Criminal Court has requested arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas officials. We ask Brian Finucane, a former advisor to the U.S. government, what this means for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the ongoing violence in Gaza.
The internet of animals
Scientists have been using tiny sensors to track animals as they migrate and interact, to learn more about the natural world. This network of communication is helping scientists uncover the hidden world of animals.
Dermatologist shortage as skin cancer rates rise
Skin cancer rates are rising in Canada, but a shortage of dermatologists means some don’t see specialists for months. Matt Galloway speaks to Dr. Christian Murray, an associate professor in dermatology at the University of Toronto; and medical student Madeleine Crawford, who led a study to see if AI can accurately screen for skin cancer.
Puck drops on first ever PWHL final
Canadian hockey legend Cassie Campbell-Pascall looks back at the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s inaugural season, as the puck drops on the first ever Walter Cup final.
How gene editing could save endangered animals
Some scientists are asking if bioengineering endangered animals’ genes could save them from extinction. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen hears more about genetic rescue efforts to bring endangered species back from the brink.
Documentary: What Can a Widow Be?
The poet Molly Peacock turned to her art after the death of her husband. Alisa Siegel's documentary, What Can a Widow Be?, explores how Peacock found a way to not only cope but find a sense of freedom in her grief. Credit: The Widow’s Crayon Box by Molly Peacock. Copyright (c) 2024 by Molly Peacock. With permission of the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
Why birding is ‘quietly radical’
Ed Yong has “birder derangement syndrome,” a condition that’s entirely made up but may be familiar to other birding enthusiasts. The science writer tells Matt Galloway how the joy of birding saved him from pandemic burnout and radically changed how he interacts with nature.
How farmers are adapting to extreme climate change
Extreme climate change — consecutive years of drought, floods and cold winters — is taking a heavy toll on farmers’ crops. We hear how farmers are adapting to these devastating challenges.
P.E.I. to reduce number of immigrant nominees for permanent residency
Foreign workers are protesting Prince Edward Island’s plan to reduce the number of immigrants it nominates for permanent residency, a change the province says is necessary to reduce pressures on housing and health care. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen speaks to one of the protestors and Dan Kutcher, mayor of Summerside, P.E.I.
Cracking the problem of impaired driving
Ontario is planning tougher penalties for impaired drivers, up to a lifetime licence suspension for incidents involving death. We look at the devastating impact of impaired driving, which increased 16 per cent in the province last year.
Should Canada impose tariffs on Chinese EVs?
The U.S. plans to slap 100 per cent tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China — and some want Canada to follow suit. We hear why North American automakers are concerned — and what it all means for consumers.
The great potato giveaway
When Manitoba farmers realized they had a massive surplus of potatoes, they decided to give them away — all 5.4 million kilograms of them. We hear about the incredible logistics of moving that much food, and what it meant to the people who need it at food banks and charities.
Why Alice Munro was a master of the short story
Canadian short story writer Alice Munro has died, aged 92. Matt Galloway talks to those who knew the Nobel Prize winner both as a friend and a master of her craft.
Alberta’s secretive water market
Some Alberta farmers are turning to water trading in the face of devastating droughts. The CBC’s Joel Dryden explores the secretive market where water rights are bought and sold.
Finding out you have cancer — in the ER
Being told you have cancer is traumatic enough, but imagine getting that news in the hallway of a crowded ER department, or over the phone from a doctor you don’t know. It’s a scenario some doctors say is becoming more common.
Wildfire evacuation is déjà vu for Fort McMurray
A creeping wildfire forced Marina Barnes to evacuate Fort McMurray, Alta., on Tuesday, days after starting a new job in the city. She tells us what it was like to be forced to flee.
Strawberries with ketchup? Chefs turn to AI for new ideas
Fancy some oysters with kiwi? Cauliflower and grapes, seasoned with nutmeg? Chefs are experimenting with AI to find unusual flavour combinations. But do the results pass the taste test?
Wildfire season has started. Here’s what to expect
Massive wildfires are already forcing people from their homes across Canada, in part fuelled by “zombie fires” that have been simmering under the snow all winter. Matt Galloway asks what this season might hold, and whether Canadians must learn to live with a new normal.
Decoding the sperm whale's alphabet
Scientists say they’ve discovered a kind of phonetic alphabet used by sperm whales, bringing us a step closer to understanding the building blocks of whale communication.
WNBA coming to Canada
Women's professional basketball is coming to Toronto, with a new team expected to start play in 2026. We talk to former professional player Christine Hyde and 15-year-old player Amaya Robinson about what this means for the sport and the next generation of players.
How Modi is reshaping India
Narendra Modi is expected to win a third term as India’s prime minister, even as allegations swirl that his government played a role in assassination plots around the world. The CBC's Salimah Shivji explores what’s at stake in her new podcast, Modi’s India: Understood.
ER staff provide life-saving care. Who cares for them?
Health-care workers face immense pressure in Canada’s understaffed and overcrowded emergency rooms. But while they care for us, who cares for them? Matt Galloway visits a Toronto hospital to hear how staff are supporting each other through often traumatic work.
Why are people so mad at Apple's new ad?
Apple’s new iPad ad has gotten a bruising backlash. Author David Sax explains why creative people in particular are outraged.
The Current Introduces: Broomgate: A Curling Scandal
For years, players have been too afraid to talk about it. But now, the truth about a broom that almost destroyed curling is finally coming out. In Broomgate: A Curling Scandal, semi-professional curler and fully professional comedian John Cullen (Blocked Party) is exposing the unbelievable, never-before-told scandal that rocked the sport of curling. Yes, curling. More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/AFwEGvQC
Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert
Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert says Israelis should take to the streets to stop a ground invasion of Rafah, and argues that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is more interested in protecting his own government than saving the lives of the hostages.
Court hears Winnipeg killer’s confession video
The CBC’s Brittany Greenslade brings us the latest from the trial of Jeremy Skibicki, who has admitted to killing four Indigenous women in Winnipeg.
Martin Luther King Jr., the man behind the legend
Jonathan Eig’s biography of Martin Luther King Jr. has won a Pulitzer Prize. Eig spoke to Matt Galloway last year about telling the story of a complicated man, from his incredible successes to his deep personal struggles.
The hidden pregnancy experiment
When writer Jia Tolentino was pregnant, she tried to hide the news from her phone — hoping to stop eavesdropping apps from alerting companies that would try to sell her stuff. She tells Matt Galloway how that went, and how you too can try to escape the surveillance economy.
A great British apostrophe fight
A council in northern England is ditching apostrophes from street signs, to avoid problems with computer systems. Matt Galloway talks to punctuation expert Florence Hazrat about the uproar from locals and our ever-evolving grammar.
Why your teen might think rough sex is the norm
Researchers say choking and rough sex are being normalized for teenagers, and parents can’t assume their kids haven’t been exposed to the risks. Experts say many teens are getting their sex education from pop culture, memes and hashtags like #ChokeMeDaddy.
Putin’s plan to make Russia great again
Russian President Vladimir Putin was sworn in again this week, adding a fifth term to his 24 years in power. We look at Putin’s vision for Russia and the wider region, and how the Kremlin's disinformation strategy tries to influence opinion around the world.
A trillion cicadas are about to have a really big party
More than a trillion cicadas from two separate broods are emerging together for the first time since 1803. The noisy insects will blanket parts of the U.S. for months — and entomologists are pretty excited.
Tracking down real-life views that inspired iconic paintings
Jim and Sue Waddington took their first whitewater canoe trip in their 70s, in order to reach the real-life location of a painting by J.E.H. MacDonald. The couple has spent decades following clues all over Canada to find the vistas that inspired iconic works from the Group of Seven.
TD faces money-laundering allegations
TD Bank Group is being investigated in the U.S. over allegations that its services were used to launder millions of dollars in fentanyl money. Finance reporter Christine Dobby tells us more.
Why people love asking ‘Am I the Asshole?’
The Reddit forum “Am I The Asshole” has become a hugely popular place for people to share their real-life conflicts, asking other users to be the judge. Social psychologist Daniel Yudkin says AITA offers us valuable insight into modern morality — and challenges some of what traditional philosophy tells us about right and wrong.
The beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar
A long-running feud between rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar has spiralled into accusations of pedophilia and sex trafficking. We unpack the beef — and the speculation about whether a shooting at Drake’s Toronto mansion this week is related.
Why did Israel reject a ceasefire deal?
Hamas accepted a ceasefire deal Monday, but Israel rejected the proposal and escalated its bombardment in Rafah. We look at what happens next, as negotiations continue.
Top chef says hospital food can be tasty — and healing
A Vancouver hospital recently brought in a top chef to overhaul the meals that one patient described as “anonymous mush.” We hear why healthier, tastier food can be a vital part of recovery.
Paul Wells on Trudeau's toughest fight
Matt Galloway talks to political journalist Paul Wells about his new book Justin Trudeau On The Ropes, which explores the prime minister’s fight for power — and why he might be facing his toughest odds yet.
The scandal that rocked curling
A new CBC podcast unpacks the 2015 scandal that rocked the genteel sport of curling. Comedian and former competitive curler John Cullen hosts Broomgate: A Curling Scandal.
Canadians should be proud of Trans Mountain pipeline, says CEO Dawn Farrell
The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion is finally up and running. Matt Galloway talks to Trans Mountain Corp. CEO Dawn Farrell about the $34 billion price tag, how environmental concerns should be addressed, and who might take it off the federal government’s hands.
Gender bias is hurting women’s mental health, author argues
Statistics show women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with a mood disorder. In her new book, All In Her Head, Misty Pratt explores the gender gap in mental health and argues the system is failing women.
This orangutan used medicinal plants to treat its wound
For the first time, an orangutan has been documented using medicinal plants to treat its own wound. We talk to one of the scientists who observed the great ape’s fascinating behaviour.
How do police decide to start a high-speed chase?
Four people were killed, including an infant and two grandparents, after police chased a suspect at high speed against traffic on an Ontario highway this week. We look at what goes into police decisions to engage in high-speed pursuits like this.
Israeli, Palestinian protests face off at McGill
The CBC’s Sarah Leavitt brings us the latest from the pro-Palestinian encampment at McGill University, where a rival Israeli protest was held Thursday; public opinion researcher Dahlia Scheindlin explains the political mood inside Israel; and the WHO’s Nyka Alexander describes the dire conditions in Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians fled to escape Israel’s airstrikes but now face a possible ground incursion.
Documentary: What Can a Widow Be?
The poet Molly Peacock turned to her art after the death of her husband. Alisa Siegel's documentary, What Can a Widow Be?, explores how Peacock found a way to not only cope but find a sense of freedom in her grief. Credit: The Widow’s Crayon Box by Molly Peacock. Copyright (c) 2024 by Molly Peacock. With permission of the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
Is Pierre Poilievre making a point or crossing a line?
In recent weeks, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has been kicked out of question period for calling the prime minister a “wacko,” hinted at using the notwithstanding clause to crack down on criminals, and visited a controversial convoy-style camp protesting the carbon tax. How are these events playing with voters? We ask our national affairs panel: the CBC’s Catherine Cullen, the Toronto Star’s Stephanie Levitz, and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
Fifth Estate investigates controversial RCMP unit
A Fifth Estate documentary, Whose Police?, investigates a special RCMP unit created to police protests around natural resource projects in B.C. Critics say this public force is protecting the interests of private industry.
The molecular approach to great-tasting food
Arielle Johnson has a PhD in the science of flavour and says knowing the basic building blocks of taste can help any cook create something delicious. She talks to Matt Galloway about her new book, Flavorama.
Fed-up consumers are boycotting Loblaws
A Loblaws boycott kicks off Wednesday, led by consumers angry about high food prices. Matt Galloway asks an organizer what she hopes the boycott will achieve; and looks at what Canada could do to encourage greater competition and a better deal for consumers.
Calgary zoning debate gets heated
Calgary is in the throes of a contentious public hearing on new zoning rules, which has pitted the rights of property owners against the push to create much-needed housing. The CBC’s Scott Dippel talks us through what’s become a charged and emotional debate.
Conservation efforts are working, study suggests
A new study has looked at 600 conservation efforts around the world — and found that nature conservation is working. We talk to the study’s co-author, Stephen Woodley, about finding hope in these efforts to protect biodiversity.
Ben Johnson’s complicated legacy
Ben Johnson maintains he was the victim of sabotage after a positive doping test stripped him of his Olympic gold medal in 1988. Galloway talks to Johnson and Mary Ormbsy — author of World's Fastest Man* — about why they think the runner was mistreated as the scandal unfolded.
B.C. rolls back drug decriminalization
B.C. is recriminalizing the use of drugs in public places, a year into a pilot project that allowed possession of small amounts of illicit drugs. We look at what that means in an opioid crisis that has claimed more than 14,000 lives in the province.
Lucy Lawless on ‘warrior princess’ Margaret Moth
Lucy Lawless high-kicked her way to fame in ‘90s cult show Xena: Warrior Princess, but her new documentary Never Look Away focuses on photojournalist Margaret Moth, a “warrior princess in real life.” Lawless talks to Matt Galloway about the globetrotting war correspondent’s life of sex, drugs and punk music — and whether she’d ever sign up for a Xena reboot.
Inside the pro-Palestinian encampment at UBC
The Current visits a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of British Columbia, one of several that have sprung up at universities across Canada and the U.S.
Saving the tiny western chorus frog
A Quebec road development threatens the habitat of the tiny western chorus frog — but now, scientists at Montreal's Biodome are hoping they have a solution.
Does a bee have an inner life?
A new scientific declaration argues that bees, snakes and a broad array of animals experience consciousness. We talk to the declaration’s co-author Kristin Andrews about what that means, from our relationship with nature to what's for dinner.
Tensions along the TMX pipeline expansion
The Trans Mountain pipeline is expected to begin expanded operations this week, after years of tension between environmentalists and the oil and gas sector — a conflict that played out in communities along the pipeline’s route. The CBC’s Erin Collins travelled along TMX to find out how people living there feel about it now.
Getting an IUD hurts. Does it have to?
IUDs are a common form of contraception, but women say the extreme discomfort of having one inserted — without any sedative — is often downplayed or dismissed. Some women are filming and sharing that procedure on social media, in a call for better pain management.
Push for global treaty on plastic pollution
Ottawa is hosting negotiations to hammer out a global treaty on plastic pollution, which is showing up in every corner of the earth — and even in human blood and breastmilk. Guest host Mark Kelley asks Nestle’s Jodie Roussell what her company is doing to curb the problem; and talks to scientist Pete Myers about what role consumers can play.
Why travel needs to change
Steve Burgess loves to travel, but he also sees how tourists are taking a toll on the places they visit. He joins us to discuss his new book, Reservations: The Pleasures and Perils of Travel.
Mass graves discovered at Gaza hospitals
The UN human rights office has called for an investigation into possible war crimes by Israeli forces in Gaza, following the discovery of hundreds of bodies in mass graves at two hospitals. We talk to UNHCR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani.
Ontario scrapping sick notes for missed work
Ontario will bar employers from asking staff for sick notes, in an effort to decrease the administrative burden on doctors and give them more time with patients. Dr. Cathy Risdon says doctors face a lot of paperwork that’s necessary but doesn’t do much to help patients.
What Canada can learn from Australia's gun buyback
The federal government’s buyback program for assault-style firearms has hit a snag: Canada Post is refusing to collect the banned guns, citing safety concerns for its employees. We look at what Ottawa can learn from countries like Australia, which implemented a large-scale gun buyback program after a mass shooting in the 1990s.
Voyager 1 gets back in touch — from 24 billion km away
NASA’s Voyager 1 started sending gibberish back to Earth a few months ago, after almost 50 years of communication from deep space. This week the space agency announced they’d fixed an error — at a distance of 24 billion kilometres. Astronaut Chris Hadfield talks to Matt Galloway about how they did it and what Voyager means to us here on this pale blue dot.
More local politicians quitting over abuse
More and more municipal politicians are leaving their jobs because of the abuse they face and the toll it takes. Matt Galloway talks to Waterloo, Ont., city councillor Jen Vasic; Calgary city councillor Jasmine Mian; and Montreal borough councillor Younes Boukala.
Learning about flow from a jazz player’s brain
Neuroscientist John Kounios has been studying the brains of jazz musicians, hoping to better understand the concept of flow. He tells us what he learned about flow, the state where a person becomes so immersed in an activity that time and complexity melt away.
What dying people see in their dreams
Dr. Christopher Kerr has spent years interviewing dying patients about the dreams they have as the end of life gets closer. He tells Matt Galloway those dreams and visions can be profound for both the patient and their loved ones.
Is Canada ready for AI?
Artificial intelligence has its roots in Canadian research, but some experts worry the country risks being left behind as AI accelerates. David Skok, editor and CEO of The Logic, explores how to seize this moment in the new book, Superintelligence: Is Canada Ready for AI?
Could H5N1 become the next pandemic?
A bird flu virus, H5N1, has infected cattle in the U.S. It’s raising fears it could jump to other species like humans. We ask experts how concerned they are about the virus and whether it poses the risk of a fresh pandemic.
What’s at stake in India’s election?
Elections are underway in India, with almost one billion people registered to cast their votes at a million polling stations. We discuss how Narendra Modi has shaped the country over his decade as prime minister and what’s at stake as he seeks a third term.
What Sophie Grégoire Trudeau did next
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau says family life can get messy since her separation from the prime minister — but they’ve still got each other's backs. She tells Matt Galloway about her new book, Closer Together, and why she wants to help Canadians build the emotional literacy needed to cope with the stresses of modern life.
Lawyer alleges police perjury in Umar Zameer murder trial
Defence lawyer Nader Hasan alleges three police officers committed perjury when they testified at the murder trial of Umar Zameer. The Toronto man was found not guilty Sunday in the death of Toronto police officer Det.-Const. Jeffrey Northrup, but Hasan says he’s not sure any criminal charges would ever have been laid if the victim had not been a police officer.
The Current presents What On Earth: “Can Earth Day be badass again?”
The climate is changing. So are we. On What On Earth, you’ll explore a world of solutions with host Laura Lynch and our team of journalists. In 1970, 20 million people showed up to fight for the environment on the first Earth Day. More than five decades later, is it time for this much tamer global event to return to its radical roots? OG organizer Denis Hayes recounts how – amidst other counterculture movements at the time – his team persuaded roughly one in ten Americans to take to the streets.
Cash prizes for (some) Olympic winners
Some Olympic winners will receive almost $70,000 on top of their gold medals this summer. But the move has sparked criticism for undermining Olympic values and favouring track and field over other sports.
What’s Canada doing about ‘forever chemicals’?
The U.S. has introduced regulations to keep chemicals called PFAS out of drinking water. We look at what Canada is doing to deal with these “forever chemicals,” which are used in all kinds of consumer products but linger in our air, water and soil.
India accused of plots to assassinate critics
Sikh separatists in Canada and the U.S. allege that the Indian government is attempting to assassinate its critics in other countries — people India considers terrorists. We hear about a Fifth Estate investigation into those allegations.
U.S. pledges billions for Ukraine
The U.S. has approved billions in aid for Ukraine after months of congressional debate. Chris York, a news editor for Kyiv Independent, tells us what that money will mean for the country and a war that shows no sign of ending.
An ‘agonizing’ time on an enormous cruise ship
The writer Gary Shteyngart spent seven days on the largest cruise ship in the world, and hated it. He compares being on the Icon of the Seas — a ship twenty decks high with up to 10,000 people on board — to being trapped in a giant mall, adrift in the Caribbean.
Gene-editing mosquitoes to fight malaria
African scientists are genetically re-engineering mosquitoes in hopes of eradicating malaria from the continent — but there are concerns about releasing those modified mosquitoes back into the wild. Matt Galloway talks to Abdoulaye Diabaté from Target Malaria Burkina Faso.
Will changes to capital gains tax affect you?
The federal government says changes to the capital gains tax will only affect the very wealthiest, but tax expert John Oakey says the middle class may also be impacted in some circumstances.
What makes a word truly Canadian?
Work is underway on a new Canadian dictionary, which will be the first major update of the country’s lexicon in two decades. Editor-in-chief John Chew talks us through what makes a word truly Canadian.
How comments about weight impact kids
Jenna Doak heard a lot of comments about her weight when she was growing up. She says it took years as an adult to “unbrainwash” herself and learn to love her body. Doak’s not alone: a new study suggests that comments about a child’s weight can have a lifelong impact.
Lawsuit targets pharma giants over opioid crisis
A Quebec class action lawsuit is looking to hold 16 pharmaceutical companies responsible for their alleged role in the opioid epidemic. Matt Galloway talks to the lawyer leading the case and asks a pain doctor about how opioids are prescribed now.
Inside a boxer's brain
Professional boxer Claire Hafner gets tested every year for signs of head trauma, by researchers studying hits to the head and long-term degenerative brain conditions. But there’s a personal factor for Hafner: she says if there’s evidence of decline, she’ll retire. The CBC’s Katie Nicholson went with Hafner for this year’s testing — and the results.
Hallucinations and omelettes in a 60-hour marathon
Jasmin Paris tells us about becoming the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, one of the most gruelling ultramarathons in the world.
Salman Rushdie on the 27 seconds that nearly ended his life
Author Salman Rushdie was attacked with a knife on a New York stage in 2022, suffering severe injuries and losing his eye. He tells Matt Galloway about the book he’s written to move past the attack and what he intends to do with his “second chance” at life.
Breaking down the 2024 federal budget
Our national affairs panel convenes to break down the federal government’s 2024 budget, which proposes $52.9 billion in new spending over five years.
Why adults love the children’s show Bluey
The show Bluey is ostensibly for kids, but it’s gained a significant following among adults for the way it handles moments like death and infertility — like in its recent season finale, in which Bluey and her family processed tough emotions about a potential move. Meryl Alper, an associate professor in communication studies at Northeastern University in the U.S., tells us more about this charming blue heeler dog.
Donald Trump faces historic criminal trial
Former U.S. president Donald Trump is accused of falsifying business records in attempts to cover up an affair with adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The presumed Republican presidential candidate also faces three other indictments. Washington Post columnist Philip Bump tells us more.
Former Thunder Bay, Ont., police chief charged
Former Thunder Bay, Ont., police chief Sylvie Hauth is facing charges of obstruction and breach of trust. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen speaks with Willow Fiddler, a reporter for the Globe and Mail in Thunder Bay; and Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury.
A year into Sudan’s civil war
Jacob Opwapo, a humanitarian worker with Islamic Relief, gives us the latest on the civil war in Sudan that broke out about a year ago and has killed an estimated 14,000 people while displacing roughly eight million.
South African woman with cystic fibrosis sues drug maker
The drug Trikafta has changed the lives of many Canadians living with cystic fibrosis. But in many other parts of the world, the drug is either not available — or if it is, it costs hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. That’s why Cheri Nel, who is based in Johannesburg, is suing American pharmaceutical company Vertex over its patent and price tag.
What comes next after Iran’s retaliation against Israel?
Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel over the weekend, in retaliation for Israel’s bombing of Iran’s embassy in Syria on April 1. Matt Galloway asks international affairs expert Thomas Juneau: what comes next?
Alarm bells over truck driving training
A new report suggests there’s an “urgent” need to improve training for truck drivers, and that new drivers who have not received adequate training are making Canada's roads less safe.
How restorative justice can help sexual assault survivors
Some survivors of sexual assault are coming face-to-face with their assailants — not in court, but in rooms focused on something called restorative justice. The CBC documentary Marlee’s Circle explores that process, which emphasizes accountability and healing over punishment.
Are online dietitians influenced by food industry money?
Some dietitians online have adopted anti-diet messaging, pushing back against shaming people for the food they eat. But a Washington Post investigation suggests food manufacturers have co-opted that messaging and are sponsoring dietitian influencers to promote products like sugary cereal. We discuss what to watch for when you seek dietary advice online, as part of our series Well Founded.
Anyone for kimchi carbonara?
Dan Pashman wants people to get inventive with how they cook pasta. The Sporkful podcast host and author of Anything's PASTAble tells Matt Galloway about inventing a new pasta shape, cascatelli, and bringing in influences beyond Italy.
Protecting your money from hackers
More than 140 BMO customers say $1.5 million was transferred out of their accounts by hackers — but the bank is refusing to reimburse that money. Cybersecurity specialist John Wunderlich talks us through how to prevent this from happening to you.
Hefty bills for not leaving hospital for long-term care
Tamara Moir says her 93-year-old father-in-law was billed $5,200 after a hospital stay last year because he refused to move to a long-term care home that his family felt was too far away. The $400-a-day charge is allowed under a controversial Ontario law designed to free up hospital beds, but criticized for forcing older Canadians into care homes not of their choosing.
How O.J. Simpson’s trial gripped the ‘90s
O.J. Simpson died this week at age 76. We look at the cultural impact and racial tensions around his trial and acquittal for double murder in the 1990s — and how it foreshadowed celebrity culture, the 24-hour news cycle and reality TV.
What’s climate change doing to our brains?
How might climate change affect conditions like multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's or epilepsy? We talk to researchers looking into how rising temperatures could impact our brains, in an emerging area of study called climatological neuroepidemiology.
Prepping for devastating wildfires
Record-breaking wildfires devastated much of Canada last year, but there are warnings that this coming fire season could be equally catastrophic. We ask climate change expert Blair Feltmate how bad it might get and what should be done to protect Canadians.
Why birding is ‘quietly radical’
Ed Yong has “birder derangement syndrome,” a condition that’s entirely made up but may be familiar to other birding enthusiasts. The science writer tells Matt Galloway how the joy of birding saved him from pandemic burnout and radically changed how he interacts with nature.
What we learned from Trudeau’s testimony
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau testified Wednesday at the public inquiry into foreign interference, which is looking into claims that China in particular meddled in Canada's past two elections. The Toronto Star’s Stephanie Levitz and former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole dissect what the prime minister said, and what’s needed to protect Canadian democracy.
Masculinity needs that ‘big dick energy’: Scott Galloway
Scott Galloway says we need to shift how we think about masculinity, because loneliness is pushing young men into extreme belief systems. The business leader and podcaster tells Matt Galloway (no relation) that the problem is partly fuelled by young people's exclusion from the prosperity of previous generations, and having that prosperity shoved in their face every day via social media.
Protecting Arctic sovereignty
The federal government has pledged more money for Arctic defence, including new support hubs that would allow a year-round military presence. We hear about the threats to Arctic sovereignty driving this investment, and what Inuit communities want officials down south to understand about their home.
Parents of school shooter convicted of manslaughter
The parents of a Michigan teen who shot and killed four classmates in 2021 have been sentenced to at least 10 years after being convicted of manslaughter. The convictions are the first of their kind. Could they act as a deterrent to future school shootings?
Does intermittent fasting work?
Cardiologist Ethan Weiss has long advocated for intermittent fasting, the diet where people restrict eating to specific times during the day in an effort to lose weight. But when Weiss decided to conduct his own study on the benefits, the results surprised him.
A legal right to a family doctor?
Jane Philpott says every Canadian should have a legal right to a family doctor and primary health care, in the same way that every Canadian child has a right to an education. The physician and former health minister tells Matt Galloway about her pitch for a Primary Care Act, and what’s stopping politicians from rebuilding a health-care system that Canadians can be proud of.
A glimmer of hope for the Whitehorse Star
The Whitehorse Star has announced it will cease publication next month, after 124 years of chronicling the news in the North. Longtime editor Jim Butler tells us about some of the biggest stories over his 43 years at the newspaper — and breaking news about a last-minute chance to save it.
False paternity tests ID wrong dads
A DNA laboratory in Toronto knew its paternity tests were identifying the wrong dads — but it kept selling them, a CBC News investigation has found. Investigative reporter Jorge Barrera explains how those inaccurate results led to heartbreak, court battles and lives turned upside down.
Scanning the skies for the total solar eclipse
Many in Eastern Canada will be eagerly checking the skies this afternoon to catch a glimpse of the moon eclipsing the sun. This eclipse is, without a doubt, the astronomical event of the year and even perhaps of a lifetime. Matt Galloway speaks with Nathalie Ouellette, deputy director of the Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at the Université de Montréal; and Laurie Rousseau-Nepton, a professor of astronomy at the University of Toronto.
Medical concerns about an anti-contraception movement, online and beyond
Wellness influencers online are increasingly encouraging women to stop using contraceptives like the pill or IUDs in favour of menstrual cycle tracking apps. As part of our series on wellness, we hear why doctors are alarmed and are pointing to a wider anti-contraception movement, online and beyond.
What dog attacks say about dog ownership culture
A visit with his father ended in tragedy for Kendrah Wong's son when the 11-year-old boy was attacked and killed in the Edmonton home by two large dogs. The story is again raising questions about how to protect people from dangerous dogs. Another woman tells her story of being attacked; and we hear about the role of the owner and what some see as a sense of entitlement in the culture of dog ownership.
Innovating a way out of the housing crisis
A group of key leaders in Canada’s real estate sector has released a report calling for greater innovation to tackle the country’s housing crisis. REALPAC CEO Michael Brooks and R-LABS CEO George Carras discuss rethinking what and how we're building.
How will animals react to the eclipse?
Researchers have noticed some surprising behaviour from animals during previous eclipses, from galloping giraffes to mating tortoises. Biologist Adam Hartstone-Rose tells us why he’ll be watching how the natural world reacts to Monday’s eclipse.
Single parents say Canada’s policies don’t work for their families
Ashley Casciato says juggling life as a single parent is like being a duck: calm and serene on the surface, but paddling madly underneath. Matt Galloway talks to single parents about navigating systems that were designed for two-parent families, how better government support could help their families thrive, and the stigma that persists around lone parents.
Inside a Gaza hospital
Canadian eye surgeon Dr. Yasser Khan recently returned from a medical mission to Gaza. He shares an audio diary of what he experienced during that time, as he worked to save people’s sight against a backdrop of falling bombs.
Aid workers fear for safety in Gaza
Israel’s killing of seven aid workers this week has left humanitarian organizations weighing the risks of delivering the help that Gaza desperately needs. Matt Galloway talks to aid workers Saddam Sayyaleh and Karyn Beattie about their fears for their safety, amid ongoing violence that has already claimed the lives of nearly 200 humanitarian workers.
Have Canadians tuned out Justin Trudeau? We asked him
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been on a pre-budget charm offensive this week, announcing support for renters, a national school food program and billions for housing and infrastructure. He joins Matt Galloway for a wide-ranging interview about why young Canadians feel like the system is stacked against them, why so many voters have a negative view of his leadership and what it would take to change his mind on the carbon tax.
How do you sign atom?
Words like atom and electromagnetic are common in the fields of science and technology — but deaf academics say there sometimes aren’t specialized ASL signs for key words, which makes communication and collaboration difficult. We learn about efforts to represent that ever-expanding complexity, and how breaking down those barriers could help more Canadians forge successful careers in STEM.
School boards sue social media giants
Several Ontario school boards are taking the world's largest social media platforms to court, accusing them of damaging the mental health of children. We look at the concerns over kids using apps like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat — and ask what kind of change the schools want.
The gambling problem in sports
Gambling controversies involving baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani and Toronto Raptor Jontay Porter have raised concerns about the depth of sports’ gambling problem. We hear from two sports journalists and Jeremy Luke, president and CEO of the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, about these scandals.
Saving a stranded orca calf
An orca calf has been stranded — all alone — in a remote lagoon in northern Vancouver Island for the past 10 days. But a rescue team is trying to coax the young calf to swim to open water and reunite with its pod.
The affordability crisis in Canada’s North — and climate change’s role in it
In Canada’s North, the affordability crisis hits differently due to climate change. In Norman Wells, N.W.T., the community depends on an ice road and river barges in the summer to bring in food and construction — but a melting road and a low river are impacting shipping and raising prices of goods. The Current’s producer Benjamin Jamieson went to Norman Wells to learn more about how climate change is reshaping life in the North; and host Matt Galloway speaks about managing the effects of climate
Making sense of the carbon tax
The federal carbon tax and its rebates went up Monday, after weeks of intensifying political debate and protest. We look beyond the politics to break down what the tax is meant to do — and whether it's hitting that mark yet.
My Dad Ward: Freeing women from trafficking
Millions of people fall victim to human traffickers who promise a better life in a new country, but force them into jobs with long hours and little to no pay. In her documentary My Dad Ward, freelance journalist Jazzmin Jiwa brings us the story of a Ugandan mother tricked into moving to Iraq and what Vancouver activist Ward Reddick did to help her get home again.
How climate change is rewriting the rules of gardening
Spring has come early to gardens across Canada, with some plants blooming sooner than expected after a record-breaking warm winter. Matt Galloway talks to experts about how climate change is changing the rules in their backyards, and how amateur gardeners can adapt.
Fears of water insecurity and extreme drought
From South Africa to Mexico to western Canada, parts of the world are bracing for extreme drought and water insecurity. Host Matt Galloway speaks with Bart Guyon, a rancher in Brazeau County, Alta., where he also serves as the local reeve; and journalist Erica Gies, author of Water Always Wins.
Anderson Cooper on confronting grief to find the joy in life
Journalist Anderson Cooper lost his father when he was 10, and his brother when he was 21 — but it wasn’t until the death of his mother in 2019 that he confronted any of that grief. In a conversation from December, he talked to Galloway about how squaring up to death helped him feel greater joy in being alive.
Winnipeg is having a moment
There’s a lot to talk about in Manitoba’s biggest city, including a new wave of leadership and Indigenous-led transformations within the city’s core. In February, Matt Galloway hosted a live show in Winnipeg, with music from singer-songwriter William Prince, and a discussion of the province’s future with Premier Wab Kinew. Plus, we embrace Winnipeg’s unique food culture — anyone fancy a Fat Boy burger?
Palestinian and Israeli activists standing together for peace
Rula Daood and Itamar Avneri are activists with Standing Together, a group of Israelis and Palestinians fighting to build a lasting peace. They talk to Matt Galloway about why that fight is more important now than ever, as bombs continue to fall on Gaza, and hostages remain in the clutches of Hamas.
Warnings ignored before Titan’s deadly dive
Last summer a submersible called the Titan imploded during a dive to see the wreck of the Titanic, killing all five people on board, A Fifth Estate investigation has now found that safety warnings went unheeded, and asks why the experimental, uncertified sub was allowed to make that dive in the first place.
The woman who knows Zach Edey best — his mom
Zach Edey grew up in Toronto, stands 7-foot-4 and is dominating the March Madness college basketball tournament. Guest host Duncan McCue talks to his mom, Julia Edey, about her own sporting career, the hard work that got her son to where he is, and what it’s like when people say Zach’s just tall — not talented.
Chocolate’s getting expensive. Is there a cheaper way to make it?
Cocoa prices have tripled in the last 12 months, driving up the price of chocolate by as much as 40 per cent in some stores. But some researchers are looking into new — and potentially less expensive — ways to make the sweet treat. University of Guelph professor Alejandro Marangoni tells us more.
Crisis of confidence at Boeing
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will step down later this year, after a string of incidents renewed concerns about the safety of the company’s planes. Washington Post reporter Lori Aratani walks us through the crisis of confidence shaking the manufacturer.
The problem with seeing nursing as ‘a calling’
Amie Archibald-Varley says that thinking of nursing as “a calling” makes it harder to speak out against the long hours, burnout and even physical abuse that nurses face. Archibald-Varley and Sara Fung are nurses who have become advocates for better supports in their profession. They talk to Matt Galloway about their new book The Wisdom of Nurses: Stories of Grit from the Front Lines.
Former gymnast Kim Shore on making sport safer
Last week on The Current Canadian Olympic Committee CEO David Shoemaker called for more funding for national sports organizations. Former gymnast Kim Shore has been a long-time advocate against toxicity and abuse in Canadian sport. She joins us to respond to that funding call, and discuss what she believes would actually protect young athletes.
Why electric vehicles are causing sparks in politics
Growth in the electric vehicle market is slowing, with some Canadians citing high prices and gaps in infrastructure as stumbling blocks to making the switch. We look at the growing political rhetoric around EVs both in Canada and the Biden-Trump race for the White House, and ask whether the federal government’s 2035 deadline is realistic.
Ending cancer treatment to focus on living
Alicia Mathlin felt like her body was no longer hers after several rounds of debilitating cancer treatment — so she decided to stop, and focus on living her life. Matt Galloway talks to Mathlin about that decision, and asks medical experts about the push for “common-sense oncology,” which weighs the pros and cons of certain treatments against a patient's quality of life.
Dynamic pricing — for groceries?
Some European grocery stores have adopted dynamic pricing — tinkering with food prices hundreds of times in a single day, based on competitor pricing or consumer demand. What would it mean for your wallet if you couldn’t be sure how much your groceries would cost at any given time of the day?
How to kill one million mice
An albatross versus a mouse might not sound like a fair fight, but on a remote South African island it’s the mice who are winning. We hear about an ambitious project to eradicate one million invasive mice on Marion Island, where the rodents are slaughtering seabirds at an alarming rate.
Do cold plunges do you any good?
The cold plunge is championed by enthusiasts as physically and mentally rejuvenating — well worth the shock. As part of our series Well Founded, exercise scientist Nick Tiller talks us through the facts behind the frigid dip and other exercise trends.
The threat of ISIS-K
ISIS-K has claimed responsibility for killing more than 130 people in Moscow Friday, though Russian President Vladimir Putin has pointed the finger of blame at Ukraine. Matt Galloway asks why the extremist group would attack Russia and what threat it poses globally.
Human gets gene-edited pig kidney
A 62-year-old man has become the first human to receive a new kidney from a genetically modified pig. Science writer Megan Molteni tells us how the gene-editing technology CRISPR made this possible, and the potential for xenotransplantation — the transplantation of organs from one species to another.
Sports need better funding to ensure safety, says Canadian Olympic Committee head
Amateur sports organizations have faced a reckoning after stories detailing abuse emerged in recent years. David Shoemaker, the CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee, tells host Matt Galloway a lack of funding is putting safe sports at risk and making it harder for Canadians to excel in international competitions.
Visa program ‘failing’ Palestinians with family in Canada
The federal government created a temporary visa program for Palestinians with family in Canada. The program aimed to bring 1,000 people to Canada, but only 14 have been approved so far. We hear from a Palestinian Canadian about the difficulty he’s experienced in getting his family to Canada, and from retired Canadian ambassador Gar Pardy about the challenges facing the government.
How the internet opened a ‘torrent of incoming generosity’
TED curator Chris Anderson sees generosity as inherent in all of us. In his new book Infectious Generosity: The Ultimate Idea Worth Spreading, he explores how we can use the internet to change lives for the better.
‘Kategate’ and the birth of celebrity conspiracies
‘Kategate’ has been fodder for group chats as people around the world question Catherine Middleton’s whereabouts. According to her office, the Princess of Wales is recovering from abdominal surgery, but celebrity conspiracies abound.
Why happiness rates are falling among younger generations
The World Happiness Report places Canada 15th on the world happiness index, but the global ranking’s data finds people under 30 here and abroad are not feeling so great. One of the report’s lead authors explains what makes us happy — and why it’s not just money.
Searching for the ocean’s undiscovered species
There are more than two million ocean species, but researchers have documented less than 15 per cent of them. Researchers with Ocean Census, a project that aims to identify 100,000 species in the next 10 years, just found 100 more off the coast of New Zealand.
N.L. fish harvesters call for more control of their sales
Fish harvesters in Newfoundland and Labrador are protesting restrictions on the sale and processing of their catch. On Wednesday, the province was granted an injunction to stop protesters from blocking the entrance to the provincial legislature. Host Matt Galloway hears what’s behind the demonstrations and the province’s response.
The spiritual experience of witnessing a solar eclipse
Parts of Canada will be in the shadow of a solar eclipse on April 8. Host Matt Galloway hears from an eclipse chaser about the emotions that come as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, and an educator on how to safely look to the sky during the celestial event.
Controversy surrounding NDP’s Gaza motion, Liberal’s climate tax
An NDP motion on Gaza has divided some Liberals on Parliament Hill. Meanwhile, the Liberals are defending their signature carbon tax policy as it comes under fire from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Our national affairs panel discusses the week in Canadian politics.
Repairing Africa’s underwater link to the internet
Millions in parts of West and Central Africa have limited or no internet access after the underwater cable connecting the region was damaged earlier this month. We hear how those cables are repaired and the fascinating social history of the digital world.
What airdropping food, supplies into Gaza looks like from above
A new UN report says 1.1 million people in the Gaza Strip are experiencing catastrophic food insecurity as Israel limits aid into the region. Now, international governments are airdropping supplies into Gaza. With rare access to an aid flight, CBC’s Adrienne Arsenault describes the crisis from above.
Trusting your kids might discourage them from cheating, research finds
New research from the U.S., Canada and China has found children cheat less if you show them trust. Kang Lee, a developmental psychologist and a professor at the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, explains how to Matt Galloway.
Boreal forests move north as Arctic ice melts
As warmer temperatures threaten ice in the Arctic Ocean, Canada’s boreal forests are creeping further north. Scientists share what the changes could mean and whether we can turn things around.
Opponents of diversity in gaming target Canadian consulting firm
Montreal-based consulting company Sweet Baby Inc. has become a target of anti-diversity activists claiming it’s trying to radically change the video game industry. We hear what’s behind the backlash as gaming becomes more diverse.
The Current Introduces: The Pornhub Empire: Understood
With about 100 million visits per day, Pornhub is one of the biggest websites on the planet. This four-part series pulls back the curtain on the scrappy, Montreal-based startup that revolutionized sex on the internet — and the massive scandal that exposed its dark side. The Pornhub Empire, season 2 of Understood, releases March 11. Hosted by journalist Samantha Cole (How Sex Changed the Internet and the Internet Changed Sex). About Understood: Know more, now. From the fall of Sam Bankman-Fried,
What’s behind Putin’s re-election as Russia’s president
Vladimir Putin won the Russian election in a landslide on Sunday, though international observers quickly pointed out there was no real opposition to the incumbent president. We hear how Russians are feeling a day after the election and why Putin claims so much support in the country.
Feeling invisible? You might be languishing
To feel languishing is to not feel alive or present. Four years after a pandemic that upended many lives, it may be a familiar feeling. Sociologist Corey Keyes, author of Languishing: How To Feel Alive Again in a World that Wears Us Down, explains how we can “flourish” amid adversity.
Tennessee high schoolers say they’ve cracked a 1980s cold case
A series of women in Tennessee were found dead in the 1980s, but police couldn’t crack the case. News of the women faded from headlines — until a Tennessee teacher launched a class project to investigate the cold case. Now, students believe they’ve linked several of the deaths to one killer.
Haitian-led solutions to the country’s political crisis
Members of the Haitian diaspora are calling for a Haitian-led solution as the country’s political situation continues to deteriorate. What that would actually look like as gangs retain control of the capital.
Helping Nunavut elders age in their own communities
As elders in Nunavut age, many want to stay close to home and family. But few long-term care beds in the territory can mean moving south to facilities in Ottawa. The federal government recently announced more than $35 million in health-care funding. We hear what it means to ensure elders can age in their own communities and culture.
Haitian-led solutions to the country’s political crisis
Members of the Haitian diaspora are calling for a Haitian-led solution as the country’s political situation continues to deteriorate. What that would actually look like as gangs retain control of the capital.
U.S. mulls speed limiting tech in cars
amid concerns over speed-related deaths, intelligent speed assistance — systems that warn a driver when they’re driving too fast, and even limit a car’s top speed — has been discussed in the U.S., and will be mandatory in European cars this summer. Host Matt Galloway explores what it could mean for drivers, and how to slow down cars by redesigning roads.
Why this woman posted fake reviews online
Many turn to the internet for reviews of a product or service — but what happens when some of those reviews are fake? One reviewer speaks with host Matt Galloway about the fake posts she was paid to write and which reviews consumers should trust.
U.S. threatens TikTok ban over company’s links to China
ByteDance, the China-based owner of social media giant TikTok, has been told by U.S. lawmakers to sell the app or have it banned. Politicians and experts say China’s connection poses a risk to national security, but the move to ban the app has raised concerns about censorship.
Aid groups push to get food into Gaza as crisis worsens
Aid groups and governments are trying to get food and medicine into Gaza as the humanitarian crisis worsens. Countries are dropping food by air, and a ship carrying 200 tonnes of food is on route from Cyprus. We hear what’s happening on the ground as Israel restricts aid deliveries into the region.
Man's court challenge of adult daughter's MAID approval raises decision-making questions
Decisions around medical assistance in dying are often made after difficult conversations with family members and loved ones. But a legal battle between a father and his adult daughter in Alberta is raising questions about who can make those decisions.
Former police officer says MDMA, therapy changed his life
MDMA has a reputation as a party drug known as ecstasy, but researchers are calling for governments to more widely approve its use in treating PTSD. We hear from a former police officer who says he’s now on a “path of healing” after using the psychedelic drug alongside therapy.
Ozempic’s possibilities — and the unintended consequences
Dr. Daniel Drucker’s research helped create the diabetes drug Ozempic, a medication that has become popular because of its off-label use for weight loss. He speaks with host Matt Galloway about the drug’s future and concerns about its popularity in celebrity culture.
Haiti’s prime minister announces resignation amid chaos in capital
Armed gangs now control about 80 per cent of Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince, and both the port and airport have been cut off. Prime Minister Ariel Henry said he’ll resign as soon as a transitional council is in place. Host Matt Galloway speaks with people on the ground and Canada’s ambassador to Haiti about the ongoing crisis.
Oregon reversing course on drug decriminalization as overdose deaths spike
When Oregon voted to decriminalize hard drugs in 2020, it was considered a landmark moment in addressing addiction. Now in the face of fentanyl overdoses and concerns around public safety, the state has reversed course. We discuss what it means to those watching in both the United States and Canada.
Why we remember a podcast — but not where we listened to it
Neuroscientist Charan Ranganath has spent his career trying to understand why we remember certain things and struggle with others. The author of Why We Remember explains why you can recall your high school locker combination but can’t remember where you left your keys.
Supporting students with complex needs in inclusive classrooms
Classrooms are increasingly made up of students with complex needs — students with learning disabilities, behavioural issues or newcomers learning to speak English. But teachers and parents say a lack of resources is letting students down. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen speaks with experts about what’s needed to improve the experience for all students.
Scientists are matchmaking queen conches in Florida
Queen conch populations in Florida have dwindled in recent years, thanks in part to overfishing and climate change. Now, scientists are working to grow those populations by playing matchmaker.
Why a Canadian military vet started a humanitarian organization in Ukraine
Paul Hughes, a Canadian farmer and military veteran, launched a humanitarian organization in Ukraine after Russia invaded the country two years ago. CBC Radio’s Danny Kerslake caught up with Hughes for his documentary, Mission 300.
How PornHub became an internet empire
PornHub is one of the internet’s biggest websites, with more than 100 million visits per day. We talk to Samantha Cole, host of the new CBC podcast The PornHub Empire, about the adult content site’s rise and the massive scandal that forced it to make huge changes.
Warnings of disinformation campaigns as AI-made videos improve
OpenAI’s Sora can generate lifelike videos from text prompts. The process feels “magical” to some, but it’s also raising concerns about the use of AI in disinformation campaigns, particularly as the 2024 U.S. election approaches. Disinformation expert Zeve Sanderson tells us what voters should be watching for.
Why a bald eagle nest in Toronto is exciting conservationists
For the first time in recorded history, a bald eagle nest has been discovered in Toronto. We discuss what it means for the endangered species.
Paying for Canada’s pharmacare plan
The federal government has unveiled its long-awaited plan to cover drug costs for all Canadians, starting with diabetes medications and birth control. But as the pharmacare plan rolls out, questions about whether provinces and territories will buy in — and where health-care dollars are spent — are emerging.
Canada’s military readiness worsening, report finds
An internal report obtained by CBC found that only 58 per cent of the Canadian Armed Forces would be able to respond if called upon in a crisis, and almost half of the military's equipment is “unavailable and unserviceable.” Guest host Duncan McCue speaks with defence experts about Canada’s NATO commitments, and pollster Shachi Kurl about what Canadians expect of the country’s military spending.
What Trump’s Super Tuesday success means for the 2024 U.S. election
Nikki Haley dropped out of the running for Republican presidential candidate after a crushing defeat to Donald Trump on Super Tuesday. We discuss what the results might mean for the 2024 U.S. election.
Why Indian day school survivors are challenging the settlement compensation process
Following a class-action lawsuit, the federal government reached a $1.47 billion settlement with survivors of the Indian day school system in 2019. Now, survivors are calling on the Supreme Court of Canada to intervene because they say groups behind the agreement have failed to represent their best interests.
With historical films leading the Oscars, filmmakers are drawing on the past
Films about historical events — like Maestro, Oppenheimer and Killers of the Flower Moon — are leading the pack at the Academy Awards. Kim Nelson, an associate professor of cinema and author of Making History Move, shares with guest host Duncan McCue why filmmakers are drawing from the past — and what we take from it.
Dr. Sima Samar on fighting for women’s rights in Afghanistan
After the Taliban was toppled in the wake of 9/11, Dr. Sima Samar was named Afghanistan’s first-ever minister of women's affairs. In her new memoir Outspoken, she reflects on her childhood, her fight for human and women’s rights in Afghanistan and the future of her country.
New book explores solutions for Canada’s housing crisis
CBC journalist Gregor Craigie sees the housing crisis as a human crisis. In his new book, Our Crumbling Foundation, the author explores how Canada’s housing crunch affects owners, renters and homeless people — and international solutions that could help solve the problem.
Pussy Riot’s Masha Alyokhina reflects on death of Alexei Navalny
As a member of the Russian punk band Pussy Riot, Masha Alyokhina has loudly protested against President Vladimir Putin. She speaks with The Current’s Matt Galloway about the legacy left by opposition politician Alexei Navalny and why she says she doesn't have time to fear for her own safety.
Couple finds joy in everyday life, despite Alzheimer’s
Children’s author Sheree Fitch and retired journalist Gilles Plante built their dream home to grow old together in River John, N.S. But in the years that followed, Plante was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. He died at home, with medical assistance, on March 2. We revisit The Current host Matt Galloway’s March 2023 conversation with the couple about how they were coping and finding joy every day.
Yuval Noah Harari on achieving peace in Gaza
Yuval Noah Harari, Israeli historian and author of Sapiens, is a longtime critic of Benjamin Netanyahu. He discusses why we need to acknowledge difficult facts about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, not ignore them.
What Super Tuesday could mean for the 2024 U.S. election
With polls signalling a potential rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. election, reporter Aaron Blake says this Super Tuesday — when the most states will vote in presidential primaries — is less “super” than usual. The Current’s Matt Galloway speaks with Blake and pollster Christine Matthews about what Super Tuesday could mean for the November election.
How ocean sound pollution is endangering baleen whales
Scientists are learning more about how whales communicate, and the dangers all the other noises in the sea pose to their survival. We go inside the larynx of a baleen whale, and hear why scientists say it’s time to rethink how we use the ocean in order to protect the gentle giants.
Regulating overcrowded rooming houses in Brampton, Ont.
In response to an estimated 30,000 illegal rental units — some housing 10 to 15 residents in unsafe conditions — Brampton, Ont., started a pilot program to require landlords to be licensed. It was put on pause after backlash — but officials are planning to start it up again.
Afghan migrants in Pakistan fear crackdown by authorities
Afghan migrants who fled to Pakistan when the Taliban returned to power are fearing for their lives after a deadline to leave the country passed. While many are in hiding, some caught in the sweep say they’re not Afghan at all. CBC 's South Asia correspondent Salimah Shivji speaks with The Current’s Matt Galloway about families living in fear in Pakistan and those still waiting to come to Canada.
Warnings over measles as some officials fear spread in Canada
Measles is on the rise abroad and cases are popping up in Canada. Dr. Isaac Bogoch explains why many health experts are concerned as Canadians get set to travel for March Break.
How hospitals, long-term care impact older adults
Listeners share stories about when elderly loved ones enter hospital care, and some suggestions on what needs to change in Canada’s health-care system as we all get older.
Novelist Tommy Orange on Indigenous triumph
Native American novelist Tommy Orange, an enrolled member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, became a sensation with his debut novel, There There. His new book, Wandering Stars, is the story of trauma, triumph and the impact of residential schools in the United States. Why the author says he needs to write about Indigenous communities thriving, not just surviving.
Remembering former prime minister Brian Mulroney
Former prime minister Brian Mulroney — known for brokering a free-trade deal with the United States, introducing the GST and his vocal opposition to apartheid in South Africa — has died. He was 84. Two former colleagues, David Crombie and Perrin Beatty, and former CBC chief correspondent Peter Mansbridge reflect on the politician’s legacy with The Current’s Matt Galloway.
Airdropping food and supplies into Gaza
Aid agencies are warning of famine in Gaza as Israel continues its siege on the region. As it becomes increasingly difficult to get aid into the Gaza Strip, some countries, including Canada, are now considering dropping food and supplies — from the sky.
What traversing the Trans Canada Trail taught this filmmaker
Dianne Whelan was at a turning point in her life. So she decided she would travel across Canada — by bike, canoe, snow shoe and foot — along the Trans Canada Trail. Whelan shares what she learned about herself and how her faith in the goodness of strangers was restored in a new documentary film, 500 Days in the Wild.
New rules for renewable energy projects in Alberta
After a nearly seven-month pause, renewable energy projects are back on the table in Alberta. But those projects come with strict rules — including a buffer zone around wind turbine projects and a ban on renewable energy products on prime agricultural land. We hear about the impact those new rules could have on investment in Alberta.
The Next War: Sexual violence in Ukraine
Two years into Russia's war with Ukraine, the fighting continues — and so does the healing in villages reclaimed by Ukrainian forces. Allegations of sexual violence, perpetrated against soldiers and civilians, have emerged from the war. Freelance reporter Sarah Lawrynuik visited one of those towns to understand how survivors are now fighting a new battle for accountability.
The case for a ‘leap minute’
The Earth is constantly slowing down, in part due to climate change. That’s why a couple times per year, scientists add a “leap second” to the clock to keep everything in sync. Now, some researchers are advocating to extend that second to a minute.
Three big city mayors on facing the housing crisis
Cities need more housing, but federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre says municipalities are standing in the way of it being built and is promising to tie funding to homes created. Three Canadian mayors — Halifax’s Mike Savage; Brampton, Ont.’s Patrick Brown; and Surrey, B.C.’s Brenda Locke — discuss the challenges their cities are facing when it comes to building more homes.
How Canada’s health-care system can better support older patients
Health journalist Liz Payne's father was 90, healthy and drove himself around town, until one day when he fell and broke his arm. Soon after he was admitted to hospital, then transferred to rehab and eventually, taken to long-term care where he died the year after his fall. The Current’s Matt Galloway speaks with Payne about why she believes her father’s experience is emblematic of the way Canada’s health-care system fails seniors.
Praise and concern for proposed online safety bill
The federal government is focusing its sights on big tech with the online harms bill, tabled on Monday. The bill aims to combat hatred and incitements to violence, protect young people online and create a new commission on digital safety. Justice Minister Arif Virani says the proposed legislation is a needed safeguard, amid increasing radicalization and online hate.
Legal concerns for would-be parents amid Alabama embryo ruling
Patients in Alabama are reeling after the state’s Supreme Court declared that frozen embryos produced for in-vitro fertilization are people with legal rights. Lawyer AshLeigh Meyer Dunham says the decision could have significant legal implications for people seeking fertility treatments.
Kara Swisher says it’s time to regulate big tech
Kara Swisher has been writing about our life online since the beginning of her career. In her new memoir Burn Book, the opinionated tech journalist holds little back about the people who control the technology we use. Swisher speaks with The Current’s Matt Galloway about what it will take to hold tech titans to account for what their products do.
Study finds Amazon rainforest still at risk of tipping point
A year after his election, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government has cracked down on illegal logging in the Amazon rainforest, and made it harder for farmers to raise animals in protected lands. But a new study says the Amazon is still on course to reach a critical tipping point of degraded earth and plantlife.
Addressing intimate partner violence after Sault Ste. Marie deaths
Last October, five people across two homes in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., were found dead, including Angie Sweeney and her ex — the man who pulled the trigger. Sweeney’s friends and family believe her death could have been prevented if recommendations from an inquest into a similar killing had been implemented. In her documentary Angie’s Angels, CBC’s Katie Nicholson visits Sault Ste. Marie to hear calls for changes to how cases of intimate partner violence are treated.
What’s behind Canada’s teacher shortage
School boards across the country are struggling to find — and keep — teachers. Educators are calling it a “crisis,” and they say efforts to get teachers into schools faster may have a negative impact on learning. We hear from teachers and advocates about what’s behind the shortage, and what solutions are needed to help students thrive.
Why author Randy Boyagoda wants people to disagree better
In the wake of protests over Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel and Israel's ensuing bombardment of Gaza, author and professor Randy Boyagoda has been appointed a special adviser on civil discourse at the University of Toronto. He speaks with The Current’s Matt Galloway about what civility means in the era of social media, and whether we actually want to hear each other anymore.
Why more construction workers are talking about mental health
At least one third of construction workers struggle with their mental health, according to Statistics Canada. We hear a worker’s story about what he went through privately, what’s preventing workers from talking about how they’re doing — and how that’s slowly changing.
NASA’s looking for volunteers to help simulate life on Mars
NASA is looking for volunteers to live in a habitat meant to simulate life on the red planet. Suzanne Bell, NASA’s lead for its Behavioral Health and Performance Laboratory at the Johnson Space Center, tells Galloway what researchers are hoping to learn from this experiment.
Killer of London, Ont., Muslim family committed terrorism, says judge
The actions of Nathaniel Veltman, who was convicted of murder and attempted murder after deliberately driving his truck into five members of the Afzaal family in London, Ont., on June 6, 2021, amounted to terrorism under Canadian law, a judge ruled Thursday. Matt Galloway speaks with child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Javeed Sukhera, who knew the Afzaal family; and Jessica Davis, president of Insight Threat Intelligence and a former CSIS Analyst.
The Current Introduces: The Secret Life of Canada | Season 6
The Secret Life of Canada is a podcast about the country you know and the stories you don't. Join hosts Leah-Simone Bowen and Falen Johnson as they reveal the beautiful, terrible and weird histories of this land. In this clip from the brand new episode “Sorry not Sorry” Leah and Falen try to find out whether or not Canadians actually apologize any more than anyone else. The full episode and many more are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/pZDNzU2h
The appeal of — and alarm created by — biometrics use at airports
Emirates Airlines in Dubai is installing a biometric system that lets passengers through airport security just by showing their face. It’s an idea gaining traction around the world, from Germany to China. We hear about the appeal of — and alarm created by — this technology.
Controversies cloud the start of MLS’s 2024 season
As the 2024 Major League Soccer season kicks off, several controversies — from a referee strike to outraged fans in East Asia — have cast a bit of a cloud over the opening matches. Soccer writer John Molinaro walks us through the issues.
Zelenskyy’s peculiar transformation, from television star to wartime leader
Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s career change — from wise-cracking television star to wartime leader — was an unlikely one, to put it mildly. But Time Magazine’s Simon Shuster watched the transformation up close. He tells us more about it in his new book, The Showman.
The precarious state of Putin’s opposition after Navalny’s death
Before his death, Alexei Navalny was the most visible symbol of the opposition to Vladimir Putin in Russia. Now, the opposition is in a precarious state. Matt Galloway speaks with Navalny’s friend and Putin critic Boris Akunin, a celebrated Russian author; and political scientist Jan Matti Dollbaum, co-author of Navalny.
Toronto rec hockey player Ike Werner on getting cut by a skate blade
Rec hockey player Ike Werner was sliced in the neck by a fellow player’s skate. He tells Matt Galloway about the experience.
‘Strong desire’ from international community for ceasefire in Gaza: Canada’s UN ambassador
The calls for a ceasefire are growing louder after more than 29,000 Palestinians were killed in Gaza, according to Palestinian officials. But Israel is still threatening to invade Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians have fled for refuge. Matt Galloway asks Bob Rae, Canada's ambassador to the United Nations, if the international community should be taking a firmer line to dissuade Israel from invading Rafah.
Addressing the opioid crisis in Belleville, Ont.
In the span of just 48 hours, there were 23 drug overdoses in Belleville, Ont. — enough to prompt Mayor Neil Ellis to declare a state of emergency. In the days that followed, our producer Amanda Grant went to Belleville to meet some of the people facing the crisis head on and learn what support they need from all levels of government.
Why a Canadian military veteran set up a humanitarian organization in Ukraine
When Russia’s invasion of Ukraine started two years ago, Paul Hughes, a Canadian farmer and military veteran, went to Ukraine and launched a humanitarian organization there. CBC Radio’s Danny Kerslake caught up with Hughes for his documentary, Mission 300.
Where the idea of free time came from
It took an international agreement in 1919 for a five-day workweek and eight-hour workdays to become a reality — and as Gary Cross, author of Free Time, points out, that is when our idea of free time came to be. He tells Matt Galloway about his book and how fast consumerism is distorting our free time.
Retire at 65? Some seniors can’t — out of necessity
The cost of just about everything is going up in Canada, and a growing number of seniors are living with the reality that they can’t afford to retire. We hear from two Canadians who planned to retire at 65 but are still working at 67 — out of necessity.
‘Humanity itself [has] failed us,’ says aid worker in Rafah
Israel has stepped up military action in Rafah, a city on the border of Egypt where more than a million people in Gaza have taken refuge. It’s still threatening to invade the city, despite those stuck there not having anywhere else to flee. Matt Galloway speaks with aid worker Yousef Hammash, who fled with his family to Rafah, about the situation in the southern Gaza Strip city; and asks Israel’s Ambassador to Canada Ido Moed what evidence exists to support Israel’s accusations against UNRWA wor
George Stroumboulopoulos on his extraordinary career in music media
In a conversation from January, George Stroumboulopoulos discusses the power of music, the art of listening and the elements that have shaped his lengthy career in the broadcast industry.
Loss of habitat is biggest threat to migratory species, says UN report
A new report by a United Nations conservation group highlights the challenges migratory species are facing. It says nearly half of the world's migratory species are in decline — and loss of habitat is the biggest threat. But conservationists in Canada say there are ways to work across borders to address this, as working together to conserve those species is crucial.
Bringing maternity care to Inuit women in Quebec’s north
We revisit Duncan McCue's Hands of a Midwife documentary, which highlights the decades long struggle for Inuit women to find proper midwife care in northern Quebec. That started to change in 1986 when the north’s first midwifery clinic opened in Puvirnituq, allowing women to stay close to their community, family and support.
Winnipeg is having a moment
There’s a lot to talk about in Manitoba’s biggest city, including a new wave of leadership and Indigenous-led transformations within the city’s core. Matt Galloway hosts a live show at Winnipeg’s West End Cultural Centre, with music from singer-songwriter William Prince, and a discussion of the province’s future with Premier Wab Kinew. Plus, we explore the joy of embracing winter and eating well — anyone for a Fat Boy burger?
Putin saw Navalny as a ‘mortal threat’: Bill Browder
Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died Friday, according to Russian prison services. Political activist Bill Browder says Russian President Vladimir Putin saw Navalny as a “mortal threat,” and his death sends a message ahead of elections in the country next month.Plus, we revisit Matt Galloway’s conversation with filmmaker Daniel Roher, who won an Oscar for his documentary Navalny.
First Nation gets its own emergency alert system
James Smith Cree Nation has released its own emergency alert system, something that Chief Robert Head says could have saved lives during the mass stabbing attack in September 2022. Matt Galloway discusses First Nations safety and security with Robert Head, chief of Peter Chapman, one of the bands that make up James Smith Cree Nation; and Edward Lennard Busch, executive director of the First Nations Chief of Police Association.
Will lab-grown meat ever reach our plates?
Lab-grown meat was pitched as the future of protein, with billions invested in the promise of meat without killing. But lab-grown steak and chicken still haven't made it to the dinner table — will they ever?
The Current Introduces: Hollywood Exiles
From the BBC World Service and CBC Podcasts comes Hollywood Exiles. Host Oona Chaplin tells the story of the decades-long campaign to root out communism in Hollywood. It’s a campaign that eventually drove her grandfather, Charlie Chaplin, and many others out of tinseltown. Hollywood Exiles is a tale of glamour, duplicity and political intrigue that reverberates to this day. It’s the story of how Tinseltown became an ideological battleground. The toll of the fight was enormous – reputations, care
‘Major’ finding in food allergy research
Scientists at McMaster University say they’ve discovered a cell that remembers allergic reactions and triggers an immune response. Some experts say the finding could be the key to future treatments for people living with food allergies.
Lululemon accused of greenwashing
Vancouver non-profit Stand.earth is accusing Lululemon of greenwashing, saying the clothing retailer’s environmental claims and marketing don’t line up with its own sustainability reports. We look at Stand.earth’s call for the Competition Bureau to investigate, and ask how consumers can spot greenwashing if they want to make environmentally friendly choices.
A trailblazer for women’s hockey
Dagmar Boettcher was one of the first girls to play organized hockey against boys 60 years ago — and this week she’ll be among thousands of fans cheering on players in Canada’s new Professional Women’s Hockey League. She reflects on how hockey shaped her life and what has changed over the past six decades.
Growing up in a decades-long psychological experiment
Susannah Breslin was enrolled in a psychological experiment from almost the moment she was born. It studied personality traits in children to see whether you could predict the type of adults they’d become. The journalist and author talks about her new book Data Baby, the cost of being a human lab rat — and what she wants us to think about in a time where it feels like we’re all being watched by our own devices.
Meet the deli worker helping Ukrainian newcomers find their feet
Daria Zozulia made Winnipeg her home after leaving Russia-occupied Crimea in 2014, and now helps Ukrainians who are escaping Russia’s full-scale invasion. She’s hiring some of those newcomers at the Sausage Makers Delicatessen Meat Market, a Winnipeg deli that has become something of a community hub.
Embracing winter — and eating well — in Manitoba
Matt Galloway talks to Winnipeggers about embracing winter in all its glory, whether that’s wandering snowy trails or a game of crokicurl, the Manitoba game that’s sweeping North America. Plus, we take a bite of Manitoba's unique food culture, from nips to Fat Boys to honey dill sauce.
What standing in joy means to William Prince
Singer-songwriter William Prince has had a blockbuster year, from Juno nominations to performing at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry. But what’s more important to him is that his son can look back one day and say, “My dad was happy.” The award-winning artist talks about making an intentional choice to stand in joy, and why it’s still an honour to come home to perform in Winnipeg, even as he sells out shows across Canada and beyond.
Why Wab Kinew thinks it’s Manitoba’s turn now
Wab Kinew says he never set out to be the first First Nations premier in Canada, but he does intend to be the best premier Manitoba has ever had. He talks to Matt Galloway about the weight of expectations, the tough decisions ahead and why he thinks Manitoba is ready to take a leading role in Canada’s future. Plus we talk to Indigenous leaders and innovators about a transformation happening in Winnipeg.
Calls for mental health care to be covered in Canada
Research suggests five million Canadians have a mental health disorder — but only about half of them receive any professional help. Guest host Rebecca Zandbergen takes a look at the push for universal mental health care and what it’ll take to help struggling Canadians.
Palestinian in Rafah says last semblance of safety is gone
Aid worker Yousef Hammash and his family fled south to Rafah as Israel’s military offensive unfolded in Gaza. But after Israel bombed Rafah Sunday night and warned that an incursion is imminent, Hammash says there’s nowhere safe in what he called a “land of rubble.”
Are saunas really good for your health?
A sauna feels nice on a cold winter’s day — but what do we know for sure about the physical and social benefits? In a conversation from last month, Matt Galloway talks to filmmaker Anna Hints, whose film about sauna culture is up for an Oscar; and asks Dr. Peter Attia what sweating it out does for our health and longevity.
Scathing report on ArriveCan app
Auditor General Karen Hogan has delivered a scathing report about the federal government’s ArriveCan app. She says the cost of the pandemic-era travel app ballooned to an estimated $59.5 million, but poor record-keeping means the true figure is “impossible to determine.”
Ukrainians in Winnipeg hold out hope for home
Manitoba has welcomed 20,000 Ukrainians since Russia invaded their homeland two years ago. We meet three women who left their lives and families behind to start a new life in Winnipeg, in the hopes of helping the war effort at home.
Artist Jordan Stranger on sharing his Indigenous culture
Jordan Stranger’s murals can be seen all over Winnipeg. The Cree artist and graphic designer from Peguis First Nation tells us what it’s like to share his art and culture, and why he hopes commemorating the past can lead to a brighter future.
Manitoba NDP moving 'as fast as we can' on landfill search: minister
Manitoba’s new NDP government has promised to search a Winnipeg landfill believed to hold the remains of two murdered Indigenous women, after more than a year of debate and delay. Matt Galloway asks Minister Nahanni Fontaine when the search will happen and what that commitment means to her personally, as a longtime advocate for Indigenous women.
Why burnt-out nurses are turning to private agencies
A growing number of nurses are leaving an overburdened health-care system to work for private agencies — an exodus that is fuelling staffing shortages and driving up costs in the public system. What’s needed to recruit and retain staff, and make nursing sustainable for those already on the brink of burnout?
‘Winterpeg’ struggling with warmer weather
Winnipeg’s known for frigid winters, but the city has felt warmer temperatures this year. We meet some of the people who embrace all that ‘Winterpeg’ has to offer, and find out how businesses that rely on the cold have been forced to pivot.
What’s a ballbecue?
It’s a barbecue shaped like a giant football. And this Super Bowl weekend, its Quebec inventor Stéphan Genest will use the “ballbecue” to cook for more than 1,000 people in Las Vegas — realizing a dream 15 years in the making.
Measles outbreaks prompt calls for vaccine catch-up
Europe has seen a sharp increase in measles, with researchers saying it's only a matter of time before more cases show up here in Canada. Dr. Natasha Crowcroft tells us about the race to catch up on routine vaccinations after a pandemic lull.
Online cults goading teens into self harm
When a B.C. teen tried to kill herself, her dad found messages on her phone from an online cult called 764, goading her into self-harm. The Fifth Estate’s Ioanna Roumeliotis talks to Matt Galloway about 764 and other groups that target vulnerable minors online and pressure them into recording or livestreaming self-harm.
How B.C. could fix unsafe rooming houses
Vancouver's SROs, or single-room-occupancy hotels, house thousands of vulnerable people — and are notoriously unsafe spaces. Two recent court rulings are putting pressure on the B.C. government to make this housing option safer, perhaps by buying it.
Turkey, one year after the earthquake
It's been a year since an earthquake killed nearly 60,000 people in Turkey and Syria, but hundreds of thousands of survivors are still sleeping in tents, shipping containers or on the street. Victoria Craig, a reporter based in Turkey, brings us the view from a still-devastated country.
Support for Ukraine fading in Canada, poll suggests
Our national affairs panel discusses a new poll that suggests Canadians' support for Ukraine has begun to fade; and an NDP ultimatum to the Liberals on pharmacare. Matt Galloway talks to President of the Angus Reid Institute Shachi Kurl, the Toronto Star's Stephanie Levitz, and the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty.
Cape Breton rallies to help snowed-in seniors
Some Cape Bretoners are still trying to dig themselves out after almost 5 feet of snow fell this week, with reports that older people in particular are missing medical appointments and running low on food. We talk to people on the Nova Scotian island about the scramble to get supplies to the vulnerable — by snowshoe, if necessary.
Ron MacLean on the state of hockey culture
Five former Canadian world junior hockey players were charged with sexual assault this week, including four current NHL players. Matt Galloway discusses the state of hockey culture and what needs to change with Ron MacLean, host of Hockey Night in Canada.
Lingering cough? Here’s what you need to know
Are you dealing with a nagging cough that just won’t go away? Respirologist Dr. Nicholas Vozoris says if you’ve been sick recently, it could just be a post-infectious cough. He explains what you can do to ease the annoyance — and when to check if it’s something more serious.
To Kill a Tiger gets Oscar nod
After a teenage girl was raped in India, her family went on a quest for justice. Their story is the subject of To Kill a Tiger, a film by Canadian director Nisha Pahuja that has now been nominated in the Best Documentary Feature category at the Oscars. We revisit her conversation with Galloway from Sept. 2022.
Nevada GOP voters pick ‘none of these candidates’
Donald Trump wasn’t on the ballot in Nevada’s Republican primary on Tuesday, but his main rival Nikki Haley lost to an option that let voters pick “none of these candidates.” The Globe and Mail’s Nathan Vanderklippe brings us the latest on the presidential race and Trump’s ongoing legal troubles.
Saving people from homelessness — for just $11,000
A Montreal program offers struggling Canadians a cash boost to help them avoid falling into homelessness — at an average cost of $11,000. Welcome Hall Mission CEO Samuel Watts tells Matt Galloway why that’s money well spent to get people back on their feet, and discusses how it could be scaled up to tackle the homelessness crisis in other parts of the country.
The Dubai princesses who risked it all to run away
Sheikha Latifa was born into incredible privilege as the daughter of the leader of Dubai, but she and her sister risked everything to escape years of alleged abuse at the hands of their father. Heidi Blake explores the story in her new podcast The Runaway Princesses.
What Canada needs to do to fight car thefts
A Toronto man was able to track his stolen truck to a rail yard, but neither police nor the rail company were able to help retrieve it. He tells Matt Galloway how he tracked his vehicle as it was moved around the world, and why he’s still determined to get it back — and experts weigh up what can be done to stop the spate of car thefts across Canada.
How a Canadian 'orphan' found her long-lost family in Korea
Kimberly Taylor grew up believing she was an orphan, until a CBC investigation last year revealed that thousands of children adopted from South Korea had been lied to. Taylor set out to reunite with a family she never knew she had, who had been searching for her for decades.
Conflict in Gaza enters fifth month
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in the Middle East, pushing Washington’s call for “a sustained pause in hostilities” as the Israel-Hamas war enters its fifth month. The CBC's Chris Brown brings us the latest from Jerusalem.
Cash-strapped Canadians turn to loans charging 47% interest
And many Canadians turn to alternative lenders when money gets tight, but those lenders can charge up to 47 per cent interest. The federal government is taking steps to cap that interest rate at 35 per cent — but critics say the move won’t address why people turn to alternative lenders in the first place.
How to tell which wellness trends are just wrong
As part of our series Well Founded, Jonathan Jarry explains how to spot some of the pseudoscience you see online, and separate wellness myths from what can actually help you. Jarry is a science communicator at McGill University's Office for Science and Society, and co-hosts the podcast The Body of Evidence.
10,000 patients in this city are losing their doctor
A health centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., is dropping 10,000 patients due to a doctor shortage. Matt Galloway talks to some of the people left scrambling to find primary care, and asks what’s driving the shortage of family doctors across the entire country.
Alberta’s new policies will put trans kids at risk, says teenager
A transgender teen in Alberta says Premier Danielle Smith’s new policies amount to forcing teenagers out of the closet via government regulation. The premier’s sweeping changes, unveiled this week, will affect how transgender teens are treated in schools and their access to what experts say is life-saving health care.
What the Manulife-Loblaw deal means for your health care
Insurance company Manulife says its coverage of certain drugs will only apply at Loblaws-owned pharmacies. We unpack what the change means for you and your access to health care.
Explorers say they’ve found Amelia Earhart's plane
Explorers think they might have finally found the wreckage of Amelia Earhart's plane. Is this the end of an 87-year mystery?
Ten years after the Rana Plaza collapse, what’s changed?
The 2013 collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory killed 1,134 people and sparked a global outcry around the high human cost of making cheap clothes. The Fifth Estate's Mark Kelley returned to Bangladesh, where he found that promises to improve wages and safety have backslid, including by some Canadian companies.
Mass stabbing inquiry delivers recommendations
The inquest into the stabbing massacre at James Smith Cree Nation has shared recommendations to help prevent similar tragedies in the future. The CBC’s Sam Samson explains what the inquest found and how families have reacted.
Environmentalists make the case for nuclear power
Ontario intends to refurbish the Pickering nuclear plant as part of wider plans to expand the province’s nuclear sector. We talk to environmentalists who say that despite the cost and concerns around toxic waste, nuclear power is a crucial part of the push to reach net zero.
Men fleeing Ukraine to avoid conscription
Thousands of men have fled Ukraine to avoid being drafted into the war with Russia, with many crossing into neighbouring Moldova and claiming asylum. CBC correspondent Briar Stewart takes us to the Ukraine-Moldova border to meet some of the men refusing to fight.
Facing up to fatphobia
Kate Manne had never gone swimming until recently because she didn’t want to be seen in a bathing suit. Her new book, Unshrinking: How to Face Fatphobia, explores how her body has been received, from the workplace to the doctor's office — and why she thinks fatphobia is such a persistent form of discrimination.
How B.C. gangs move drugs all over the world
Veteran crime reporter Kim Bolan has just returned from a worldwide trip to investigate Canada’s place in the global drug trade — and found that the gangs in charge see Vancouver's port as a safe haven to operate from. She tells Matt Galloway what she’s uncovered in her latest investigative series Lethal Exports, published in the Vancouver Sun.
Why ‘risky play’ is important for kids
The Canadian Pediatric Society says "risky play" is good for kids’ mental, physical and social health — even if it might result in injury. We hear what’s behind this new advice, why ”incredibly boring playgrounds” are part of the problem, and why parents might need to just take a deep breath.
Canadian ‘aghast’ at delay to MAID for mental illness
John Scully says he feels betrayed by the government’s decision to delay expanding medical assistance in dying to the mentally ill. The 82-year-old says he’s tried everything to treat his complex mental illness and without MAID, he’s left with “the horror of suicide.” Matt Galloway talks to Dr. Sonu Gaind, who testified in parliament about the need for a delay; and Dr. Jean Marmoreo, a MAID provider who says the delay is intolerable and cowardly.
Tackling deepfake nudes in schools and online
Explicit AI-generated images of Taylor Swift flooded social media last weekend, just weeks after deepfake nudes of Canadian teens were found circulating in a Winnipeg school. Experts say more needs to be done to address this abusive use of technology, from the playground to the boardroom.
Eliminating cervical cancer ‘well within our sights’
Scotland began vaccinating teenage girls against HPV in 2008. Now, a new study shows no one in that cohort has developed cervical cancer in the years since. Matt Galloway talks to the study’s author Dr. Tim Palmer about whether it’s possible to make cervical cancer an exceedingly rare disease; and asks Dr. Gina Ogilvie about at-home screening and vaccination efforts here in Canada.
How animals see colour in the world around them
What does a dog see when it looks at a peacock feather? Or a bee, when it looks at a flower? Scientists have developed a camera system to show how various species perceive colour as they navigate their habitats — biologist Daniel Hanley tells us how it works.
What to expect from the foreign interference inquiry
The highly anticipated public inquiry into foreign electoral interference begins Monday. It will start by deciding what it can — and can’t — talk about publicly. We discuss what to watch for as the inquiry unfolds and what it might mean for Canada’s relations with China, Russia and India.
Retraining the brain to silence tinnitus
Tinnitus can sound like a ringing in your ears or a whooshing in your head — and can be constant and disruptive for the people who live with it. We hear how scientists are trying to treat the problem, including a way to retrain the brain to silence the ringing.
What it's like working with the world's 'forgotten' refugees
War Child Canada founder Samantha Nutt recently travelled to South Sudan, where she met refugees who feel forgotten by the wider world. She talks to Matt Galloway about what she saw in the unfolding humanitarian crisis and where she finds the will to keep working in the face of great suffering.
Alleged human smuggler living freely outside Toronto
An investigation from The Fifth Estate has found that a man accused of smuggling a migrant family — who froze to death while walking from Canada into the U.S. — is living freely outside Toronto. Steven D'Souza brings us his ongoing investigation into the search for those accused of human smuggling.
Top UN court orders Israel to prevent genocide in Gaza
The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to contain death and damage in Gaza, but has stopped short of ordering a ceasefire. The court is also allowing the case involving South Africa’s accusation of genocide to proceed. We'll unpack the ruling and explain what might happen next.
At 99, swimmer Betty Brussel just smashed 3 world records
Swimmer Betty Brussel just broke three world records. She’s training hard for her next competition — while preparing for her 100th birthday this summer. As part of our series Well Founded, we talk to researchers and older Canadians about the importance of staying active in your golden years.
Are full-body MRIs worth the money?
Celebrity endorsements are driving up demand for full-body MRIs, which scan for anything lurking in your body that might not show up in more routine check-ups. But some experts say these expensive scans might not actually help you — rather, they could hurt Canada’s already struggling health-care system. As part of our new series Well Founded, we talk to a doctor who tried it out for himself.
B.C. chief coroner angry at province’s ‘lackadaisical’ response to toxic drugs crisis
B.C.’s chief coroner Lisa Lapointe says she’s angry with the provincial government’s “lackadaisical” response to the toxic drugs crisis, which has killed almost 14,000 people in B.C. since 2016. As she prepares to retire, Lapointe talks to Matt Galloway about what’s needed to save lives, and the intense pain she sees in parents who have lost children to toxic drugs.
What we know about former world junior hockey players told to surrender to police
Five former world junior hockey players have been told to surrender themselves to police to face sexual assault charges, according to the Globe and Mail. The charges are believed to be connected to the alleged sexual assault of a woman in a London, Ont., hotel room in 2018 — a case that has mired Hockey Canada in controversy. Matt Galloway discusses the latest developments with Globe and Mail investigative reporter Robyn Doolittle; and The Athletic’s senior investigative writer Katie Strang.
The social expectations that stifle young Black boys
Growing up as a young Black man, Matthew R. Morris felt hemmed in by expectations around race, masculinity and how people thought he should fit into Canadian society. In his new memoir Black Boys Like Me, he explores his journey from a difficult student with something to prove, to an educator and role model for Black youth.
Invoking Emergencies Act was unreasonable, judge rules
A federal judge has ruled that the Liberal government infringed on Charter rights by invoking the Emergencies Act to clear protesters in Ottawa and elsewhere in early 2022. We look at the ruling, why a public inquiry came to a different conclusion — and what the political fallout might be.
Far-right plot to mass deport migrants in Germany
It has emerged that members of Germany’s far-right political party Alternative for Germany (AfD) met with neo-Nazis to discuss plans to mass deport migrants, including German citizens of foreign origin. We discuss the reaction in Germany, where the AfD is still polling high — and why anti-immigrant rhetoric is gaining ground across Europe.
Canada needs more foster parents. What does the role involve?
Many foster parents in Canada are getting too old to take on new kids — but not enough people are stepping up to replace them. Matt Galloway talks to advocates and foster parents about the urgent need for new foster homes, and why the cost-of-living crisis is a big part of the problem.
Anesthesiologist shortage puts surgeries in jeopardy
Provinces are warning of a shortage of anesthesiologists, fuelled by a mix of burnout and retirements. We talk to anesthesiologists Dr. Kevin Gregg and Dr. Lucie Filteau about the very real impacts for patients in the operating room, and how to solve the shortage.
Does Apple’s Vision Pro live up to the hype?
Apple is pitching its new Vision Pro — a virtual reality headset — as the future of personal computing. But are people ready to wear what looks like a large pair of ski goggles, at a price tag of roughly $4,700? We ask Julian Chokkattu, the reviews editor at Wired.
Alberta is not the ‘caricature’ that Canada thinks it is: Rachel Notley
Rachel Notley is stepping down as leader of the Alberta NDP, after leading the party to victory in 2015 — and suffering defeat in two subsequent elections. She talks to Matt Galloway about pipelines, polarization and why the best night out in Canada is a night out in Alberta.
Inquest into mass stabbings at James Smith Cree Nation
The CBC’s Sam Samson shares the latest from the coroner's inquest into the mass stabbings at James Smith Cree Nation, where Myles Sanderson killed 11 people in Sept. 2022.
Well Founded: Do office wellness programs actually work?
Companies spend big money to help their employees feel good at work, from lunchtime yoga to mindfulness seminars. But a new study suggests these workplace wellness programs aren’t actually doing much to help. We dive into office wellness in the first instalment of Well Founded, our new series about making sense of all the pitches on how to be a better you.
Premier P.J. Akeeagok on Nunavut’s future
Nunavut has taken over land and resource responsibility from the federal government in the largest land transfer in Canadian history. Premier P.J. Akeeagok talks to Matt Galloway about the opportunities — and challenges — that lie ahead.
Risk of famine grows in Gaza
Isam Hamad says it feels like “the dark ages” at Gaza’s southern border, where he and his family are stuck with extremely limited food and water. Matt Galloway talks to Hamad about what he’s doing to try to survive; and discusses getting humanitarian aid where it’s needed with Arif Husain, chief economist for the World Food Programme.
Greenland’s losing 30 million tonnes of ice every hour
Greenland is losing 30 million tonnes of ice every hour, a new study suggests. Canadian researcher William Colgan regularly visits the country’s ice sheet. He tells us about the changes he’s seen and what that surge of freshwater might mean for the world’s oceans.
Bankruptcy rates climbing in Canada
Bankruptcy rates are climbing, and they could get worse as businesses stare down deadlines to repay pandemic assistance loans. What’s driving these numbers, and what’s needed to help people navigate this painful process?
Working 9-5 and then some — just to stay afloat
Rafid Khan works 9 to 5 at his full-time job, attends class from 5 to 6, and then heads to his second job from 6 p.m. to midnight. Khan says he feels like a machine sometimes — but it’s the only way he can make ends meet in the cost-of-living crisis. Matt Galloway talks to Khan and CBC reporter Malone Mullin, whose series The Grind explores the stories of Canadians working round the clock just to stay afloat.
The hype around the Stanley cup (not that one)
If you hear “Stanley cup” and immediately think “hockey trophy,” you’ve probably missed the latest craze in reusable water bottles. The insulated travel mug holds 1.2 litres of water, comes in a variety of colours — and has become so popular that stores are limiting how many people can buy. Journalist Meg Duff helps us understand the hype.
How to feng shui your fridge
Jiaying Zhao wants to feng shui your fridge — both to reduce your personal food waste and help curb emissions worldwide. She tells Galloway how happiness can be a great motivator in the fight against climate change and can turn individual action into systemic change.
Huge ancient city discovered in Amazon
Researchers have found the ruins of a huge ancient city in the depths of the Amazon, using airborne laser sensors to see what’s hidden in the dense vegetation. Stéphen Rostain, who led the investigation, says this complex society thrived for 1,000 years; and archaeologist Jay Silverstein tells us what this discovery reveals about humankind's potential — and fragility.
Liberals polling poorly as Conservatives woo young voters
Our national affairs panel discusses the prime minister’s controversial vacation, the Liberals’ struggling poll numbers, the Conservatives’ pitch to young voters and Rachel Notley’s legacy as Alberta NDP leader. Matt Galloway talks to Globe and Mail reporter Carrie Tait; the Toronto Star’s deputy Ottawa bureau chief Stephanie Levitz; and Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute.
How reframing chronic back pain could bring relief
Many Canadians suffer from debilitating chronic back pain, affecting their work, relationships and even mental health. We hear from researchers about a treatment called pain reprocessing therapy, which could offer some sweet relief by reframing that pain in our minds.
Daycares say $10-a-day childcare isn’t adding up
Some child-care operators say the federal government’s pledge to provide $10-a-day daycare isn’t adding up for them financially — and they might face closure without more support. Matt Galloway talks to workers and owners about where provincial and federal governments are going wrong.
Making immigration work for Canada
The federal government is facing criticism that it has hiked immigration targets in recent years, without ensuring there’s enough housing and other essential services to support a bigger population. Matt Galloway talks to economists who say immigration is an important part of Canada’s future prosperity, but the policies around it need more nuanced thinking.
Russian antiwar activist (finally) becomes Canadian
Maria Kartasheva had already moved to Canada when she was convicted in her native Russia for blog posts criticizing the war in Ukraine. That conviction blocked her from becoming a Canadian citizen last spring, but she was finally allowed to take the oath last week. She talks to Matt Galloway about the perils of speaking out against Putin, and her hopes for a new life here.
People finding creative solutions to the homelessness crisis
Advocates say there’s no single, perfect solution to the homelessness crisis across Canada, so sometimes a little creativity is required. We hear how tiny homes, electrified encampments and supportive modular housing are chipping away at the problem, and supporting people in crisis when more permanent solutions are lacking.
Deep freeze heats up political debate in Alberta
Icy cold temperatures pushed Alberta's energy grid to its limit over the weekend. But when an emergency alert went out asking Albertans to conserve energy, it also stirred up political debate about the federal government's plans to decarbonize the grid.
Trump supporter on why criminal charges haven’t swayed his vote
Donald Trump dominated the Iowa caucuses Monday night, cementing his Republican nominee front-runner status — despite ongoing court cases and the prospect of prison time. One voter in Iowa says those charges are “trumped up” and won’t sway his support.
Airstrikes on Yemen, explained
The U.S. and U.K. have launched airstrikes on Yemen, in response to Houthi rebels raiding commercial ships in the Red Sea, over Israel's war in Gaza. Journalist Iona Craig explains what the rebels want, and why they’re not afraid of an escalating conflict.
This Florida school has a strict cellphone ban. It’s working
Quebec has implemented a ban on smartphones in classrooms, something which has already largely failed in Ontario. In Orlando, Fla., Timber Creek High School has a strict rule banning phones at any time during the day — and Principal Marc Wasko says it’s working.
What a Canadian doctor saw in Gaza
When Dr. Yasser Khan heard the sound of an explosion in Gaza, he knew he had about ten minutes before casualties started pouring into the hospital where he was volunteering. The Canadian eye surgeon went there earlier this month to help civilians caught up in Israel’s military offensive. He tells us about the “unprecedented” suffering he saw, a health-care system in a state of collapse, and why he’d go back in a heartbeat.
The life of a modern-day lighthouse keeper
British Columbia is looking for lighthouse keepers — the perfect job if you like rugged coastlines, working with your hands and lots of time by yourself. Matt Galloway talks to former lighthouse keepers Caroline Woodward and Barry Porter about a life that’s all about isolation, wild weather and saving lives.
Remembering Ed Broadbent, a ‘giant of Canadian politics’
Ed Broadbent, former NDP leader, has died at 87. He was part of some of the biggest moments in Canadian political history, and a lifelong champion of social democracy and making life better for ordinary Canadians. In a conversation in November, he spoke with Matt Galloway about his legacy, and what he thinks of Ottawa today.
The incredible power of the humble hug
What is it about a hug that can feel so special? Why can some human touch, even from a stranger, make such a difference to your day? Michael Banissy tries to answer those questions in his latest book Touch Matters: Handshakes, Hugs, and the New Science on How Touch Can Enhance Your Well-Being.
Chaos in Ecuador as gunmen storm live TV
Gunmen armed with explosives stormed a live TV broadcast in Ecuador this week, amid escalating gang violence, prison riots and the abduction of several police officers. President Daniel Noboa says the country is now in an "internal armed conflict" — what’s driving the chaos?
Why old-school explorers were ‘utterly mad’
Before GPS and air travel, explorers did some “utterly mad” things in pursuit of adventure, says Peter Rowe, a filmmaker and explorer himself. Rowe looks at how these voyagers were the rock stars of their day in his new book Out There: The Batshit Antics of the World's Great Explorers.
Whitehorse school eases ban on nuts
A school in Whitehorse is allowing peanuts back in the lunchroom, moving away from a blanket ban toward a focus on educating kids about allergies. The school’s principal says bans create a false sense of safety, but one parent of children with multiple allergies says the idea is insulting.
South Africa accuses Israel of genocide in court
South Africa is accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza at the International Court of Justice. We discuss the apartheid legacy that led South Africa to bring this case forward, how Israel is likely to defend itself, and whether the court could order an immediate suspension of the violence.
The race back to the moon
Several missions to the moon faltered this week, with a private-led expedition experiencing technical difficulties after takeoff and NASA delaying two upcoming missions over safety concerns. We look at our enduring fascination with the moon, and why some experts are worried about balancing public and private interests in our race to get back there.
How saving street dogs in Thailand helped this man save himself
Niall Harbison had a successful career as an entrepreneur and a private chef to billionaires. But when addiction brought him to his lowest, he found his calling in saving neglected and abused street dogs in Thailand. Harbison tells the stories of the dogs he’s saved — and how dogs saved him — in his book Hope: How Street Dogs Taught Me the Meaning of Life.
N.S. has a plan to support paramedics. Will it endanger patients?
Nova Scotia is offering 12 weeks of training to become an emergency medical responder, a new role working alongside paramedics. The province’s Health Minister Michelle Thompson says it’ll help get paramedics back out in the field and reduce ambulance wait times, but ER physician Dr. Margaret Fraser worries the training isn’t sufficient — and could put patients in dangerous situations.
Drone swarms, AI attacks and the changing face of war
Drones are now a huge part of how we fight, from battles in Ukraine to rebels attacking ships in the Red Sea. We hear how cheaper devices and the rise of artificial intelligence are changing the face of warfare — and why armed drone swarms are as ominous as they sound.
Worried you’re always glued to your phone? Listen to this
Kashmir Hill spends too much time on her phone — sound familiar? The technology reporter tells Matt Galloway what happened when she switched from the latest iPhone to an old-school flip phone, and researcher Jay Olson shares some tips about how to put your device down — and whether thinking of it as an addiction is even the right approach.
Can IVF save the northern white rhino?
There are just two northern white rhinos left on the planet, and both are older females. But researcher Thomas Hildebrandt is confident that there’ll be a bunch of baby rhinos running around in just a few years. He says his group BioRescue has made a breakthrough: an IVF pregnancy that could help to save the critically endangered species.
More men report sexual misconduct in Canada’s military
Larry Beattie says he was sexually assaulted by a superior officer in Canada’s navy in the 1970s, but he never reported it because he didn't think a complaint made by a man "would have gone very far." Decades later, the number of men reporting sexual misconduct in the military is increasing, but survivors often don’t feel safe or supported in doing so. Matt Galloway talks to Beattie about his experience; and discusses what needs to change with Rick Goodwin, who specializes in treating male survi
Loose bolts led to jetliner blowout at 16,000 feet
Investigators say loose bolts led to the door of a Boeing jetliner blowing out at 16,000 feet last week. We ask aviation expert John Gradek what happened — and whether you should be worried about boarding your next flight.
How dreams vary in different cultures
New research looks at the cultural differences in how we dream, comparing the dreams of Western societies to foraging hunter-gatherer communities. What do those differences tell us about human evolution? And what other mysteries might our dreams unlock?
Are saunas really good for your health?
Saunas appear to be having a moment on social media — but what do we know for sure about the benefits, both physical and social? Matt Galloway talks to filmmaker Anna Hints, whose film about sauna culture is up for an Oscar; and asks Dr. Peter Attia what sweating it out does for our health and longevity.
Clearing homeless encampments violates Charter rights: advocate
Advocates are suing the city of Edmonton over its policy of tearing down homeless encampments, arguing that it violates the Charter rights of the people who live there. While the city cites fears around fires and organized crime, advocates say clearing tents doesn’t address the underlying causes, or the reality that they’re appearing all over Canada.
RSV vaccine approved for use during pregnancy
Newborn babies and infants are particularly vulnerable to the respiratory virus RSV, but Health Canada has approved a vaccine that can be given during pregnancy. Pediatrician Dr. Jesse Papenburg explains how it might keep kids out of hospital in the earliest days of their lives.
Bird flu kills polar bear
A strain of bird flu that started out in poultry killed a polar bear in Alaska last month. Conservation biologist Diana Bell talks us through the risks of the H5N1 strain, which has been wreaking havoc on wildlife for more than two years now.
George Stroumboulopoulos wants to show you some really great music
George Stroumboulopoulos’ vibrant broadcast career has been recognized with the Order of Canada. He talks to Matt Galloway about the power of music, the art of listening and what he learned when he was dumped as host of Hockey Night in Canada.
André Picard on his hopes for Canadian health care
Journalist and new Order of Canada inductee André Picard discusses his career covering health care, the life-or-death problem of online misinformation, and why he still has hope for Canada’s struggling health-care system.
Meet Martinus Evans, the 300-pound marathon runner
Martinus Evans has run several marathons — at his own gloriously slow pace — and started the Slow AF Run Club to inspire other plus-sized people to lace up their running shoes. In a conversation from June, he tells us about challenging society’s idea of an athlete, and why it’s not about being the fastest.
Tensions mounting in the Middle East
The killing of a top Hamas commander in Beirut is fuelling fears that Israel’s military assault in Gaza will flare up into a wider regional conflict. We discuss those mounting tensions, and what it might take to de-escalate.
Childcare spots getting harder to find, research shows
New research shows that childcare in Canada is on average becoming more affordable, but it’s becoming harder to find a spot. Matt Galloway talks to parents struggling to find care, and checks in on the federal government’s pledge to provide $10-a-day childcare by 2026.
Michael Audain on how art changed his life
Businessman Michael Audain is one of Canada’s most prominent art collectors, often offering his pieces for public exhibition and donating millions to galleries. In a conversation from October, he tells us about his new book, Pictures on the Wall: Building a Canadian Art Collection, and shares the lessons of a life surrounded by art.
One father’s anxious fight to get his kids out of Gaza
Mohammed Fayad was living in B.C. when Israel’s military incursion began in Gaza, leaving him terrified for his two children still living there. We listen back to the documentary, first broadcast in November, about Fayad's fight to bring his children to safety in Canada — and find out how the family has fared since being reunited.
Rumblings of war between North and South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has scrapped the idea of reconciliation with South Korea, instead declaring that nation his "principal enemy." Journalist Jean Lee says the shift is a strong indication that the Hermit Kingdom might be preparing for war.
Honouring new Order of Canada appointees
We continue our celebration of the extraordinary people appointed to the Order of Canada. Matt Galloway speaks with editorial cartoonist Michael de Adder; pioneering AIDS activist Richard Burzynski; and refugee education advocate Wenona Giles.
What would a Biden-Trump rematch look like?
This year’s U.S. presidential election could be a rematch of Democratic incumbent Joe Biden and his Republican rival Donald Trump. But with Biden struggling with consistently low approval ratings and Trump facing a litany of criminal charges, our panel of political journalists says it could be an election unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Strongwoman Alyssa Ages on the true meaning of strength
Alyssa Ages likes lifting very heavy things. The journalist got interested in strongwoman athletics almost a decade ago, and says lifting giant stones often isn’t about superhuman strength, “but just about being more human.” In a conversation from September, she talks to Matt Galloway about her book Secrets of Giants, and what it really means to be strong.
Extraordinary people named to Order of Canada
Some of the country's best and brightest have been named to the Order of Canada. Matt Galloway talks to physician and paralympian Dr. Francine Lemire; Inuk writer and opera singer Deantha Edmunds; and businesswoman Carol Lee, a leader in revitalizing Vancouver's Chinatown.
Why Jane Goodall won’t give up on hope
Jane Goodall’s research into chimpanzees changed our understanding of the natural world. In a conversation from October, she tells Matt Galloway how her youthful curiosity sparked a ground-breaking career — and why her hope for curbing climate change lies with young people.
Was 2023 the best year ever?
The news in 2023 was dominated by cruelty, conflict and climate disasters, but Angus Hervey says it was also the “best year ever” for global health, conservation and clean energy. Hervey is the editor of Future Crunch, a newsletter highlighting positive news. He says the good news can often outweigh the bad in our world — and explains why you don’t always hear about it.
Canadian politics in 2023 and what’s in store for 2024
From affordability and housing, to foreign interference at home and wars abroad, it's been a big year in Canadian politics. To look at the year that was and what's to come in the year ahead, we've convened our national affairs panel.
For this 95-year-old musician with dementia, playing the piano keeps her feeling like herself
For many dementia patients, music remains even when other aspects of memory have slipped away. Mother and daughter Marjorie and Beverly Taft are experiencing first-hand what dementia specialists and caregivers have known for years — music can serve as a lifeline.
Chefs and food writers share the recipes and cookbooks that brought them comfort this year
We revisit Matt Galloway’s conversation with deputy food editor for the New York Times Genevieve Ko about the best recipes of the year, and culinary experts Jonathan Cheung and Lucy Waverman recommend cookbooks from 2023.
Acclaimed French chef Eric Ripert on cooking seafood with love
We revisit our conversation with acclaimed French chef Eric Ripert. His latest book, Seafood Simple, aims to make cooking fish and octopus less intimidating, because cooking is an essential part of what it means to be human.
Why dozens of Canadian adoptees from South Korea are questioning their origins
Dozens of Canadian adoptees from South Korea are questioning their origins after growing concerns that their birth records may have been falsified amid a child export frenzy in the decades following the Korean War.
Helping Jewish and Palestinian diaspora communities understand each other
Raja Khouri and Jeffrey Wilkinson reflect on the trauma and pain of the last few months. They have a shared project to help Jewish and Palestinian diaspora communities understand each other better.
Sea otters return to Haida Gwaii and 50 years since the US Endangered Species Act
Sea otters have returned to the Haida Nation after years without the animals living alongside the people. Marine planning manager at the Council of the Haida Nation, Niisii Guujaaw, tells The Current's guest host Nahlah Ayed that the return of sea otters to the region marks an exciting shift for conservation in the area. Plus, the vice president of science, knowledge and innovation at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Canada James Snider explains why 50 years after the implementation of the US Endan
How 3 strangers are helping refugees start new lives in Canada
What do a former refugee from Afghanistan, an advocate in Canada and a retired academic in Australia have in common? These three strangers found an unexpected connection and pooled their money and skills to change the lives of refugees forever.
Director Robert McCallum on his Mr. Dressup movie
Ernie Coombs' Mr. Dressup was a beloved mainstay at CBC for 29 seasons. London, Ont., filmmaker Rob McCallum is the director of Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this year. It follows Coombs' early years in Pittsburgh working with Fred Rogers, and his enduring legacy in Canada.
What happens to the holiday gifts you return?
The holiday season is a time to give gifts — and also return them. But what happens to those returned purchases? Mark Kelley takes a look at “reverse logistics,” the booming industry aimed at reselling those products and keeping them out of a landfill.
Astra Taylor on tackling the age of insecurity
In this year's CBC Radio Massey Lectures, Astra Taylor argues that insecurity is at the core of many of the crises we face today. In a conversation from last month, the filmmaker and activist tells Matt Galloway how collective action could tackle that insecurity, and help to build a whole new world.
Canadian youth take climate change fight to court
The Federal Court of Appeal has given a group of young Canadian activists the green light to sue the federal government over alleged inaction on climate change. Mark Kelley talks to one of the plaintiffs, Lauren Wright, and co-counsel Chris Tollefson.
Why isn’t hockey more popular in the U.S.?
Author and comedian Dave Hill wanted to understand why hockey is so popular in Canada and other parts of the world, but never took off in the U.S. He set off on a global odyssey to find out why in his new book, The Awesome Game.
How Quebec’s tourtière became a New York hit
Tourtière is a Christmas Eve staple in Quebec, and now New Yorkers are catching on to this quintessentially Quebecois cuisine. Mark Kelley talks to Hugue Dufour and Sarah Obraitis, who have built a loyal following for the pie south of the border.
The patriarchy of pockets
There’s a lot of history tucked into the pockets ofin our clothing, including a long-standing frustration that women’s clothes tend not to have them. Hannah Carlson digs into the patriarchy folded into fabric in her new book Pockets: An Intimate History of How We Keep Things Close.
McGill bursary to offset tuition fee hikes
McGill University has announced a bursary to offset the Quebec government’s tuition fee hikes for out-of-province students — but most of those students will have to commit to learning French. Mark Kelley talks to McGill's Deputy Provost Fabrice Labeau about the impact on enrollment; and asks Tthe Logic’s Martin Patriquin what’s behind the changes.
Unravelling the mysteries of a baby woolly mammoth
A perfectly preserved baby woolly mammoth was discovered in Yukon’s permafrost last year — and quickly became important to the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation, who named her Nun cho ga and declared her an ancestor. Now, the First Nation has decided to bring the mammoth to Ottawa for further study, blending science and tradition to unravel her mysteries.
Aren't volcanoes fascinating?
A spectacular eruption in Iceland has captured the world’s attention, after rumbling for weeks and forcing the evacuation of an entire town. Volcanologist Clive Oppenheimer discusses the science, lore and lure of the country’s so-called lava fountains.
How Israelis and Palestinians view the ongoing conflict
The Israeli government continues its military campaign against Hamas, despite mounting international pressure over civilian casualties in Gaza. What are Israelis and Palestinians thinking as the conflict drags on and the death toll mounts? Matt Galloway talks to Dahlia Scheindlin, a political analyst and polling expert in Jerusalem; and Khalil Shikaki, director of the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research in the West Bank.
Home for Christmas: How a P.E.I. mom tracked down her mentally ill son in Toronto
When Marlene Bryenton's adult son suffered a mental health crisis last year, he left P.E.I. and ended up living on the streets in Toronto. She tracked him down with the help of strangers on Facebook, but struggled to secure treatment because her son suffers from anosognosia — a condition where people do not understand that they’re sick. Bryenton tells Matt Galloway why she thinks the system needs to force help on those who don't know they need it; and what it’ll be like to have him home for Chri
The best things that happened to you in 2023
What was the best thing that happened to you in 2023? Listeners share the highlights from what hasn’t always been an easy year — from learning a new skill late in life to a life-saving gift from a loved one.
A jolt for Canada's electric car market
Ottawa’s new electric vehicle regulations are expected to include mandated sales targets — a measure aimed at making sure there are enough EVs available for any Canadian who wants to buy one. But questions remain about affordability and infrastructure, and whether Canada can reach its target of ensuring all passenger car sales are zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
An exhibit of (entirely fake) J.E.H. MacDonald sketches
The Vancouver Art Gallery acquired 10 works by Group of Seven painter J.E.H. MacDonald in 2015 — and now knows they were fakes all along. Curator Richard Hill tells us about turning these pieces into a new exhibition, and the road to discovering they were forgeries.
Tackling Canada’s food waste problem
Canada has a massive food waste problem, even as many people struggle with rising grocery costs and food insecurity. We hear what can be done to tackle the problem: from thinking differently about best before labels, to apps saving perfectly edible produce from the dumpster.
Investigating allegations of Hamas sexual violence
Nadav Davidovitch has been helping Israel's Physicians for Human Rights investigate allegations of sexual violence perpetrated against Israeli women and girls during the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. Davidovich, the dean of the School of Public Health at Ben-Gurion University, discusses the complexities of the investigation, and accusations that international bodies have responded with indifference.
Anderson Cooper on confronting grief to find the joy in life
Journalist Anderson Cooper lost his father when he was 10, and his brother when he was 21 — but it wasn’t until the death of his mother in 2019 that he confronted any of that grief. He talks to Matt Galloway about how squaring up to death helped him feel greater joy in being alive, and why people can feel so alone in something that so many of us go through.
BONUS | Rick Mercer wouldn’t recommend getting Tasered
Rick Mercer risked his own safety (and sometimes Jann Arden’s) as he trekked around Canada, from getting Tasered to wearing a beard made of bees to climbing aboard “the train of death.”
At a live event in Toronto last week, Mercer told Matt Galloway why he always leaned into the wild things people get up to in small towns — and how he never quite figured out what it means to be Canadian, but he wouldn’t want to be anything else.
What if the universe is a hologram?
Could what we see as the world actually be a projection from a wrapper that goes around everything in existence? Canadian scientist Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski explains the theory that the universe is a hologram, and why it matters.
Former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy on tackling abuse in sport
Former NHL hockey player Sheldon Kennedy has dedicated his life to tackling abuse in sports. He joins Matt Galloway to discuss the federal government’s new commission to investigate systemic abuse — and what more needs to be done to make sport safe for all.
N.W.T. Premier R.J. Simpson on what the North needs
R.J. Simpson was among hundreds forced to flee wildfires in the Northwest Territories last summer. Now he’s the territory’s new premier, promising communities they’ll be better prepared for the next big fire or flood. He talks to Galloway about settling outstanding land claims, pushing back on the carbon tax, and what some people don't understand about Canada's North.
Why self-driving cars don’t mean you can zone out
Tesla is recalling more than two million cars over safety concerns with its autopilot system. We dig into the misconception that drivers can zone out while those kinds of systems are engaged — and why that’s a problem for the entire concept of automated driving
What 2024 might hold for Canadian politics
With the House of Commons set to rise, our national affairs panel discusses why MPs are divided on calls for a ceasefire in the Middle East, how party leaders are polling with the public, and what lies ahead in 2024. Matt Galloway talks to host of CBC Radio’s The House Catherine Cullen, National Post parliamentary reporter Ryan Tumilty and Globe and Mail feature writer Shannon Proudfoot.
The 'internet's chess teacher' on making the game cool
Levy Rozman says anyone can learn to play and love chess, as long as they’re willing to embrace a little failure on the way. The former competitive player and now YouTube star tells us about reaching new players online — and why chess has nothing to do with intelligence.
Researchers pinpoint cause of severe morning sickness
Researchers say they have isolated the cause of the most acute form of morning sickness, which can lead to weight loss, malnutrition and even threaten the lives of the mother and fetus. We hear why this might be a breakthrough for health in pregnancy, and why the debilitating condition isn’t always taken seriously by doctors.
Adrienne Clarkson on her incredible career, and the future of public broadcasting
Adrienne Clarkson says her career in broadcasting opened up the world to her, and made her realize she could do the same for other people. The journalist, author and former governor general of Canada was recently inducted into the CBC News Hall of Fame. She joins Matt Galloway to look back at a groundbreaking career, and peer into the uncertain future of public broadcasting.
Soleiman Faqiri’s death in custody ruled a homicide
A coroner’s inquest has deemed that Soleiman Faqiri’s 2016 death in an Ontario jail was a homicide. His brother Yusuf Faqiri tells Matt Galloway what this verdict means to his family, and why he wants better support for Canadians living with mental illness.
A hand-drawn map with no people, but 1,642 free-roaming animals
New Zealander Anton Thomas hand-drew a massive map free of humans and political borders, but packed with 1,642 animals roaming the earth’s lands and seas. He talks us through this Wild World, which took three years to complete.
Shut down websites selling poison, urges brother of man who died by suicide
Ontario man Kenneth Law is facing 14 counts of second-degree murder, for allegedly selling sodium nitrite on websites offering items that can be used for self harm. Matt Galloway talks to Gerald Cohn, whose brother Benjamin Cohn died by suicide in February after allegedly placing an order online from Law. Cohn says he wants these websites shut down.
Why dentists have questions about Canada’s new dental plan
The federal government’s new dental-care plan is expected to help millions of uninsured Canadians, but some dentists say they need more details before they enroll to provide care. Matt Galloway talks to two dentists about how the plan will work, questions around staffing shortages, and concerns that some employers may cancel their private insurance plans.
The best recipes and cookbooks of 2023
In turbulent times many people turn to comfort food, seeking solace in the kitchen. We ask chefs and food critics about their favourite recipes and cookbooks in 2023 — including “Marry Me Chicken,” a dish so good it’s said to elicit proposals of marriage.
The fight over a sunken treasure worth $27 billion
Colombia’s government wants to salvage the San José, a Spanish galleon that sank off the country’s coast in 1708. The ship was carrying gold and jewels that could be worth billions today — but there’s quite a fight about who gets that sunken treasure, and some archaeologists say the ship should stay where it sank.
Activists clash with oil industry at COP28
Climate activists have voiced concerns about the growing influence of oil and gas industry lobbyists at COP 28. As the climate conference wraps up in Dubai, we hear what progress has been made, and where the sticking points have been.
Why a trip to the mall is different these days
We discuss the changing nature of shopping malls — including why some malls are dying, and how those that are thriving are being transformed into a new kind of mall community.
Rick Mercer on the fun of being Canadian
Rick Mercer spent 15 years criss-crossing the country for The Mercer Report, talking to Canadians in every walk of life — and performing some death-defying stunts. At a live event in Toronto’s Glenn Gould Studio, Mercer tells Matt Galloway what he learned about being Canadian, and why he wouldn’t recommend getting Tasered.
How Reader’s Digest changed this Canadian’s life
After hearing that Reader’s Digest is pulling out of Canada, listener Elisabeth Baugh wrote to The Current to share how the magazine changed her life. Baugh was born with a facial difference. She tells us how a magazine article led her to the help she needed, and inspired her to start a charity to help others.
What would you give for your dog to live longer?
A U.S. biotech company has unveiled an anti-aging drug that could increase a dog’s lifespan by a full year. The drug isn’t on the market yet, but it’s sparked some debate about what’s in the best interests of the animal — and what people would give for a little extra time with the animals they love.
Why Alexis Hillyard sees her disability as a superpower
On her YouTube show Stump Kitchen, Alexis Hillyard shows that life with one hand is no hindrance to cooking great food. Now she’s received a Governor General's Meritorious Service award for her work championing representation for people with limb difference and disabilities in the culinary world.
Almost half a million workers on strike in Quebec
Close to half a million public sector workers are striking in Quebec, including nurses, social service workers and educators. Matt Galloway calls up a teacher on the picket line to hear why she’s out on strike, and asks a union leader how the public will be impacted by what’s one of the largest strikes in Canadian history.
AI trained to tell fine wine from plonk
Researchers say that artificial intelligence can now tell the difference between an expensive bottle of wine and a bottle of plonk made in someone's garage. Neuroscientist Alex Pouget explains how computer code can measure mouthfeel and more, and what AI can tell us about why certain wines shine.
Reader's Digest Canada shuts down
After more than 70 years, the Canadian version of Reader's Digest will shut down in March. The magazine’s former editor-in-chief Mark Pupo looks back at the legacy of a groundbreaking magazine that had an impact well beyond the doctor’s waiting room.
Many kids hate math. It doesn’t have to be that way
Math scores for Canadian students continue to slide, but some say the fault lies not with the students but in how the subject is taught. Matt Galloway asks a panel of experts how we can help kids rediscover the wonder and creativity in mathematics.
How ‘micro-acts of joy’ can nudge you toward happiness
It can be hard to find happiness in the world these days, but the Big Joy Project asks people to engage in little acts of joy every single day. Project leader Emiliana Simon-Thomas explains the science behind giving people a daily nudge to making their own happiness — from doing something kind for someone else, to taking in the beauty of the natural world.
Desperation growing in Gaza
Desperation is growing in Gaza, where Israel’s military offensive is pushing further south, hostages remain in Hamas detention, and hundreds of Palestinians have been killed since the temporary ceasefire ended last week. Matt Galloway talks to Isam Hammad, who is trying to get his family out via Gaza’s southern border; Médecins Sans Frontières International President Dr. Christos Christou, who has just returned from the region; and Israel's ambassador to Canada Iddo Moed.
How Cabbage Patch Kids became a ‘riot-worthy’ toy
Cabbage Patch Kids were the must-have toy for many kids in the 1980s, with parents brawling in stores when there weren’t enough dolls to go around. Dan Goodman, executive producer of new documentary Billion Dollar Babies, says the frenzy around the toys reached “next-level insanity,” in a shopping craze that changed consumer culture.
To plug a methane leak, you have to find it first
The federal government plans to lower methane emissions in the oil and gas sector by 75 per cent — but scientists aren't even sure where all this potent greenhouse gas is coming from. We hear how satellite tracking is helping pinpoint methane leaks, from the oil patch to the garbage dump.
Could U.S. deadlock change course of war in Ukraine?
U.S. politicians are deadlocked over renewing military funding to Ukraine, with Republicans demanding a tightening of the U.S.-Mexico border in exchange for new overseas funding. Matt Galloway hears what that funding means to Ukraine’s defence against Russia, and whether a shortfall could change the course of the war.
Why turning empty offices into housing could make our cities more vibrant
Calgary is leading the way in converting empty office towers into housing, with more than a dozen projects underway in the city. Experts say only a fraction of buildings are suitable, but the ones that are convertible could help ease the housing crisis and bring vibrant new life to our downtown cores.
‘Loophole’ letting teens buy nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches were approved for sale in Canada as a product to help smokers quit — but health experts warn they are being marketed to teens through a loophole.
Turning deep space data into music
Researchers and musicians have collaborated to translate scientific data from deep space into music. NASA scientist Kimberly Arcand and Montreal composer Sophie Kastner explain how they turned starscapes into symphonies.
Why the push for paid sick days stalled
Canada is one of the few countries without nationally mandated paid sick days, leaving many workers feeling forced to work when they’re unwell. Matt Galloway talks to a physician, an economist and a business advocate about the arguments for and against paid sick days — and hears why a pandemic-era push for them stalled.
Venezuela votes to set up new state in neighbouring Guyana
Venezuelans have voted overwhelmingly in favour of setting up a new state in an oil-rich territory called Essequibo. The snag? Essequibo makes up roughly two-thirds of neighbouring country Guyana, with a population of more than 200,000. Washington Post reporter Ana Vanessa Herrero discusses what happens next with the disputed region.
‘Tis the season for holiday advertising
The holiday advertising season has begun, and companies are using humour, nostalgia or just a good old-fashioned tear-jerker to sell their wares. Under The Influence host Terry O'Reilly highlights the best Christmas ads and what companies are really trying to pitch you on.
Why you don’t need to panic about ‘white lung syndrome’
Many Canadians are dealing with colds and flu right now, and some with RSV and COVID-19 infections. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Isaac Bogoch discusses what to expect this winter virus season — and why there’s no need to panic about an uptick in what's being called “white lung syndrome” among children.
Can sustainable fuel cut the climate cost of flying?
Flight emissions are a major contributor to climate change, but Canadian businessman John Risley says it's not realistic to think people will just stop air travel. He tells Matt Galloway about his company’s work on curbing those emissions with sustainable aviation fuel, made from waste fats and plant sugars. The Aviation Environment Federation's Cait Hewitt says that sustainable fuel solutions are decades away, and baby steps won’t cut it.
Saving the wriggle fence, and other endangered Nfld. crafts
Traditional crafts like weaving, instrument- and broom-making are disappearing in Newfoundland, but the award-winning Crafts at Risk project is helping experts pass their skills on to the next generation. Matt Galloway talks to some of the people bringing those traditions back from the brink of extinction, and learns how to make something called a wriggle fence.
Surging violence in the West Bank
With the world’s eyes on Gaza, a Palestinian farmer in the West Bank says his community is facing a surge in Israeli settler violence, which has prompted fears of escalating conflict in the wider region.
Fifth Estate investigates actor Nathan Chasing Horse
Multiple women in Canada say they were sexually assaulted by the Dances with Wolves actor Nathan Chasing Horse, and that accusations against him were overlooked for years. The actor has been charged with sexual assault in Nevada, where Las Vegas police also allege he’s the leader of a cult called The Circle. In a new CBC Fifth Estate investigation, Surviving the Circle, Mark Kelley explores the allegations, which the actor denies.
Like ‘day and night’: India’s reaction to assassination plot allegations in Canada and U.S.
U.S. prosecutors allege that an Indian government employee ordered the killing of a Sikh separatist leader on U.S. soil — just two months after Ottawa accused India of playing a role in the killing of a Sikh leader in B.C. Matt Galloway talks to former CSIS director Richard Fadden about the allegations, and why India’s reaction to each country's accusations has been very different.
Why focusing on talent can obscure potential
We often think that people who achieve great success must have been born with raw, natural talent. But in his new book Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things, psychologist Adam Grant says that idea misses the potential lurking in all of us.
Green ambition or just greenwashing? COP28 kicks off in Dubai
The United Nations COP28 climate talks have begun in the United Arab Emirates, amid criticism that the summit’s leader is also head of the country's largest oil and gas company. The CBC’s Susan Ormiston joins us from Dubai to discuss the country’s enormous new solar farm, accusations of greenwashing and whether the meeting will meet this climate moment.
Nanalan finds new fans on TikTok
The classic Canadian kids TV show Nanalan is entertaining millions in memes on social media, almost 20 years after it went off air. Jamie Shannon, the show’s co-creator and voice of Mona, tells us why a trip to Nana’s house might be just what the world needs right now.
Alberta to fund nurse practitioner clinics, but critics urge more action on family doctor shortage
Alberta will soon fund nurse practitioners to open their own clinics, in the hopes of providing primary care to the estimated 800,000 Albertans without a family doctor. But some medical associations say the move leaves physicians overlooked and disrespected, and the province needs to do more to fix the root causes of the shortage.
Lost Salieri ballet found after 200 years
Researcher Ellen Stokes was sifting through library archives when she happened upon the pieces of a long-lost work by Antonio Salieri, Mozart's arch rival. She tells us about the discovery, and what it was like to see it performed for the first time in 200 years.
How to talk to your kids about online sexual extortion
A 12-year-old boy in B.C. took his own life after becoming a victim of online sexual extortion. In a world where kids are increasingly online, we discuss how parents can start conversations about digital safety.
Why Martin Baron thinks journalists should keep their opinions to themselves
Veteran editor and journalist Martin Baron led the Washington Post through seismic shifts in the world of journalism, as well as the newspaper’s sale to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Baron tells Matt Galloway about being yelled at by former U.S. president Donald Trump, and why he believes objectivity is still a vital part of journalism.
Path to limit climate change ‘narrowing by day’: Fatih Birol
Fatih Birol, the head of the International Energy Agency, discusses the role of the energy sector in addressing climate change, what we'd have to change in our lives to meet climate targets — and whether those targets are still realistic.
Tackling the housing crisis with prefabricated modular homes
Could modular homes be a key part of solving Canada’s housing crisis? Some experts say this type of structure, built quickly in a warehouse like Lego, could be what's needed to get more Canadians into homes of their own.
Brodutch family reunited after weeks held hostage by Hamas
Hagar Brodutch and her three children have been released by Hamas, seven weeks after they were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 attack. Hagar’s brother-in-law Aharon Brodutch tells Matt Galloway about the family’s long-awaited reunion; and the CBC’s Margaret Evans discusses the ceasefire deal that has allowed much-needed aid into Gaza.
Inquest looks into the death of Soleiman Faqiri
In 2016, Soleiman Faqiri was being held at the Central East Correctional Centre in Lindsay, Ont., awaiting trial. But 11 days after he went into custody, Faqiri, who lived with schizophrenia, died in a violent confrontation with guards. An inquest into Soleiman Faqiri's death is underway. CBC’s Shanifa Nasser walks us through the details.
These young Canadians are pushing the boundaries of science
Matt Galloway meets grade 12 student Anush Mutyala and grade 11 student Vinny Gu, two young scientists who are inventing the future for the benefit of others.
Why a moving iceberg has scientists’ attention
A giant iceberg three times the size of Manhattan has broken from the Antarctic ice shelf. Its movement — and environmental impact — is being closely monitored by scientists around the world, including David Holland, a professor of math and environmental science at New York University.
Could rent banks soften the impact of rising rent?
The impact of rising rent is being felt across the country — and with more people on the edge of affording rent, some municipalities are looking at rent banks as a possible solution. Matt Galloway discusses this with Gladys Wong, executive director of Neighbourhood Information Post; and a panel of Melissa Giles, managing director of the BC Rent Bank, and Tobin Leblanc Haley, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of New Brunswick.
Can 'public adjusters' really take on big insurance?
A little-known field is growing in Canada, as public adjusters step in to represent homeowners in the wake of disaster. "It's like having a lawyer in a lawsuit," says Brandon Sobel, an insurer-turned-adjuster who sees a “massive power imbalance” between laypeople and the professionals who handle their claims – one he compares to a beer league team going up against the NHL. “We become their voice.” He joins Matt Galloway to share some of what he’s learned from big fights and fine print.
Rise of Islamophobia worse now than after 9/11, says sociology professor
An increase in anti-Palestinian and anti-Muslim hate crimes has taken place in Canada since Israel declared war on Hamas in early October. Matt Galloway discusses living in the shadow of Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism with Jasmin Zine, a professor of Sociology and Religion and Culture at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont.; and Dalia El Farra, a Palestinian-Canadian who works in human rights and equity, diversity and inclusion at the post-secondary level.
Ontario Universities call for more funding, end of a tuition freeze
Ontario universities are calling for a tuition increase and more funding, after a new provincial government-commissioned report says the post-secondary sector is in financial trouble. Matt Galloway asks Deborah MacLatchy, president and vice-chancellor of Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont., whether increasing tuition for students is the right move; and discusses the value of higher learning with Paul Tough, an author and broadcaster who has written extensively about education.
Former RCMP intelligence official found guilty of violating secrets act
Cameron Ortis, a former RCMP intelligence official, has been found guilty of breaching secrets laws for leaking sensitive police information. Ortis says he will appeal the decision. Stephanie Carvin, an associate professor at Carleton University in Ottawa and a former national security analyst, explains the verdict.
IV vitamin therapy a ‘case of marketing, not science,’ says UBC nursing prof
Clinics offering IV vitamin drips are popping up in cities across Canada, and more celebrities and online influencers are promoting the treatments. But Bernie Garrett, a professor of nursing at the University of British Columbia, says they’re nothing more than a “health scam.” Is there any evidence supporting IV drips?
Why singer Marichka Marczyk joined the war effort to support Ukraine
For nearly a decade, Ukrainian-Canadian singer Marcihka Marczyk has been supporting her home country by using her voice. But recently, Marczyk stepped up her support and joined the fight as a combat medic. She tells Galloway what she saw during a tour in Ukraine.
Israel, Hamas agree to temporary ceasefire
Israel and Hamas have agreed to a temporary ceasefire in Gaza for at least four days, to let in aid and release at least 50 hostages captured by militants in exchange for at least 150 Palestinians jailed in Israel. Matt Galloway hears about what this means for those living there, how Qatar played a role in the ceasefire, and what happens next.
Why more Canadians are deciding not to have children
A growing number of Canadians are delaying parenthood or choosing not to have children at a time when Canada's fertility rate is at an all-time low. The Current’s producer Kate Cornick looked into these decisions and the long-term implications.
Argentina’s new president promises drastic change
Argentina has elected a former sex coach and self described anarcho-capitalist as it’s next president. Javier Milei has promised to slash spending, privatize state companies and close the national bank. What does this mean for South America’s second-largest economy?
Chrystia Freeland defends government’s fall economic statement
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland says the fall economic statement shows her government is prepared to combat the rising cost of living for Canadians. But critics suggest the Liberal government still isn’t doing enough.
Crisis in Sudan, as the world looks away
Refugees fleeing Sudan’s civil war have reported a surge in ethnically driven killings of civilians and a deepening humanitarian crisis — but aid workers say the world isn't paying attention.
Loneliness as bad for you as smoking, says WHO
The World Health Organization has declared loneliness a global health threat — as bad for your health as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day. We discuss how to tackle the problem and the stigma that stops people from talking about it.
What to look for in the fall economic statement
The federal government presents its fall economic statement Tuesday, amid a cost-of-living crisis and pressure for Ottawa to cut back on its own spending. Matt Galloway asks what can be done to make a real difference for ordinary Canadians, and how Prime Minister Justin Trudeau can convince voters the economy is in good hands.
The Current Introduces: Gay Girl Gone
Of all the young revolutionaries in Syria during the Arab Spring, Amina is different. An out lesbian in a country where homosexuality is illegal, she bravely documents her life on the blog Gay Girl in Damascus. Her candid posts attract readers from around the world, and soon she has a wide, ardent following. But then a post appears saying Amina has been abducted. Her fans mobilize, desperate to track down and save their fearless heroine. What they find shocks them. Journalist Samira Mohyeddin in
New podcast tells the real story of a gay blogger in Syria
Amid the Arab Spring a decade ago, Amina Arraf was an openly gay blogger sharing news about life in Syria — a place where homosexuality is illegal. But when she disappeared, questions arose about whether Arraf was really who she said she was. Samira Mohyeddin explores that story in the new CBC podcast, Gay Girl Gone.
Canada's plastic ban faces obstacle from courts
A judge said that the federal government’s decision to list plastic items as toxic was "unconstitutional,” dealing a major blow to Ottawa’s efforts to ban single-use plastic. We hear about the fight to keep plastic out of our environment — and how activists in Kenya may offer a path forward.
Tech sector tensions as Sam Altman ousted
Sam Altman has been fired as CEO of OpenAI — the makers of Chat-GPT — and promptly hired at Microsoft. Tech writer Will Knight discusses what the ouster tells us about the rapid development of artificial intelligence, and industry tensions around safety.
Canadian ‘ecstatic’ as U.K. approves gene therapy for sickle cell disease
Beverly Ndukwu lives with sickle cell disease, a genetic mutation that causes pain she describes as a constant stabbing knife. She tells Matt Galloway what it’s like managing that pain, and why she’s “ecstatic” that the U.K. has now approved the world's first gene therapy treatment for the disease, using the gene-editing tool CRISPR.
A father’s quest to get his kids out of Gaza
Mohammed Fayad has been trying to get his 14 year old daughter and 12 year old son
out of Gaza for years. But as war breaks out, his efforts turn to desperation. CBC’s Jodie Martinson documents their journey — the extreme anxiety and fear as communication breaks down, and the joy and relief when they are reunited in British Columbia.
Ottawa should ‘stay in their own lane’: Danielle Smith
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says national unity means all levels of government working together — but it doesn’t mean provinces letting Ottawa do whatever it wants. She talks to Matt Galloway about pushing back on the carbon tax, pulling Alberta out of the Canada Pension Plan, and why she’s hitting the stage with Tucker Carlson.
U.S. and China agree crackdown on flow of fentanyl
China and the U.S. have agreed on a deal to crack down on the manufacture and export of fentanyl from China, in the hopes of curbing overdose deaths in North America. Vanda Felbab-Brown, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, explains what it might mean for the toxic drug crisis and U.S.-China relations.
Criminal cases thrown out over Ontario court delays
Criminal cases in Ontario must be tried within 18 months, but staffing shortages and other problems are leading to cases being thrown out when that time is up. Galloway talks to legal experts about what happens when serious cases like sexual assault allegations get thrown out, and protecting public faith in the legal system.
Is listening to audiobooks cheating?
Audiobooks are growing in popularity, but some people question whether listening to a book is the same as reading it. We put that question to psychology professor Dan Willingham, author of The Reading Mind.
Growing babies in an artificial womb
Scientists are working on devices that would allow a baby to develop entirely outside a human body. In her new book, Eve: The Disobedient Future of Birth, researcher Claire Horn explores the ethics around artificial wombs — and the politics imposed on women’s bodies.
HRW’s Tirana Hassan on seeking justice in war
Tirana Hassan is watching the conflict in the Middle East closely. The new executive director of Human Rights Watch says even wars have laws — and part of her job is to pursue justice for those caught in the crossfire.
Peace activists remember Vivian Silver
Winnipeg-born peace activist Vivian Silver was initially believed to have been taken hostage by Hamas, but her family has now confirmed she was killed in the Oct. 7 attack. Matt Galloway talks to Palestinian and Israeli peace activists who knew her, and who say they’ll keep fighting for the path to peace paved by Silver.
Why Michael Crummey is interested in places on the edge
Michael Crummey’s book The Adversary explores his familiar themes around life at the ocean's edge. In an interview first broadcast in September, Matt Galloway sat down with the author at the Woody Point Writers Festival in Newfoundland to discuss isolation, vulgarity and the responsibility that comes with telling the stories of home.
Tackling the rise of ransomware attacks
Public libraries, hospitals and even the state of Maine have fallen victim to ransomware attacks recently, freezing operations and compromising the personal data of millions. Guest host Nora Young asks cybersecurity expert Ali Dehghantanha what can be done to block these breaches.
Houses being ‘split apart’ by volcano tremors in Iceland
Iceland is bracing for what could be a significant volcanic eruption, after thousands of recent tremors cracked roads, opened sinkholes and damaged buildings. Photographer Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove speaks to us from Grindavik, a town sitting on a 15-kilometre stretch of magma.
Misery in Gaza getting worse every day, says surgeon
Israel’s military incursion is pushing Gaza’s health-care system to the brink, with doctors reporting having to make life-or-death decisions amid dwindling fuel and medical supplies. With no ceasefire in sight, a surgeon in Gaza says he feels like the world has turned its back.
The future of hearing technology
Hearing aids are expensive and make everything sound louder, not just the things you want to hear. But technology is changing, and some researchers are turning to artificial intelligence for a solution. Galloway speaks with Ian Bruce, a professor in the McMaster School of Biomedical Engineering; and Richard Plummer, executive director of the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association.
Pakistan begins mass deportation of Afghan asylum seekers
When the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan, nearly two million Afghans fled to neighbouring Pakistan. But now, Pakistan’s government wants those asylum seekers out — and many of them are terrified of what they’ll face if they go back to Afghanistan.
Growing number of Canadians getting MAID
A growing number of Canadians are choosing medically-assisted death. Last year, more than 13,000 Canadians used the program — a 31 per cent increase over the year prior. Matt Galloway discusses why more Canadians are choosing medically-assisted death, with Dr. Michel Bureau, the head of Quebec's commission on end-of-life care; and Dr. James Downar, a physician who heads the University of Ottawa’s palliative care division, and the co-author of a recent study for the Canadian Medical Association J
Why we need to rethink how we remember war
R.H. Thomson is grappling with war and remembrance — and why the way we think about both needs to change. In his book, By the Ghost Light, the Canadian actor asks who is telling our stories of combat — and explores how rhetoric from the First World War is still being used in Ukraine and the Middle East today.
Tiny beetles enlisted to save iconic N.S. hemlock trees
An invasive species of insect is threatening Nova Scotia’s hemlock trees, prompting scientists to ship in tiny black beetles to gobble them up. Jeff Fidgen, a biologist with the Canadian Forest Service, tells us how it works — and whether anything could go wrong.
Canadians skip the dentist over rising costs
Dental fees are rising to record levels in some provinces, and new data suggests one in four Canadians is avoiding the dentist chair as a result. Matt Galloway asks why the cost of care is increasing, and hears about a no-frills clinic trying to make it more affordable.
Is this the end of panda diplomacy?
Pandas have been important tools in normalizing relations between China and the West. But now, the cuddly bears are leaving North American zoos and heading home. Is this the end of panda diplomacy; and could it be a good thing for the actual bears?
Israel is risking hostages’ lives over ‘petty politics’: family member
Four of Aharon Brodutch’s family members are being held hostage by Hamas, and the Toronto resident says not enough is being done to free them. He tells Galloway that Israel’s government is risking his family’s lives for the sake of “petty politics.”
Trump leads Biden in polls ahead of 2024
One year out from the U.S. presidential election, Donald Trump is ahead of Joe Biden in polls in several key states — and in and out of court defending himself against a series of criminal indictments. The New York Times’ Ruth Igielnik unpacks the political mood south of the border.
Families terrified for Canadians still stuck in Gaza
The first Canadians were able to leave Gaza on Tuesday, but many more are still awaiting evacuation assistance from Global Affairs Canada. Matt Galloway speaks with a man who made it across the border and an Ontario woman whose elderly father is still in northern Gaza, as Israel’s airstrikes continue.
What sandwiches can teach us about history
Fancy a peanut butter and chili sandwich? Cream cheese and cornflakes on bread? Barry Enderwick makes these unusual sandwiches based on recipes from throughout history, posting the delicious (and not-so-delicious) results to his thousands of social media followers. He says these recipes tell us a lot about the times and people who cooked them up.
Nathan Thrall on what can and can't be said in the heat of war
Jewish-American author Nathan Thrall hoped his new book, A Day in the Life of Abed Salama, would give the world an insight into the daily lives of Palestinians and Israelis — and perhaps start conversations about ending the cycle of violence. But when the Israel-Hamas war broke out just days after its publication, his book tour events were cancelled or postponed. Thrall talks to Matt Galloway about what can and can't be said in the heat of war, and the complicated road to peace.
Could AI revolutionize the weather forecast?
Artificial intelligence is producing increasingly accurate weather forecasts, but climatologist Russ Schumacher says there’s an element of chaos that the machines can’t account for. He explains why it’s not time to take humans out of the equation just yet.
Making video games more accessible for disabled players
Millions of people play video games — and many of those gamers have a disability. Now, a new type of controller is the latest step in increasing accessibility for disabled players.
Antisemitism in Canada amid Israel-Hamas war
As Israel’s military offensive in Gaza drags into another week, many Jewish Canadians say they feel afraid — at the synagogue, at school and on the street. Matt Galloway talks to Rabbi Louis Sachs, human rights consultant Karen Mock, and writer and filmmaker David Bezmozgis about the anxiety of the moment, unsettling echoes of the past and divisions within the community itself.
The Current Introduces: Crime Story
Fraud. Abduction. Murder. Every week, Crime Story host and investigative journalist Kathleen Goldhar goes deep into a tale of true crime with the storyteller who knows it best. From the reporter who exposed Bill Cosby, to the writer who solved one of Australia’s most chilling cold cases — Crime Story guests include: Gilbert King (Bone Valley), Eric Benson (Project Unabomb),Carole Fisher (The Girlfriends), and many more. More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/JFjZjkd4
N.B. premier considering not collecting carbon tax
New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs says he is seeking legal advice about whether his province can stop collecting the carbon tax, arguing that it’s making the affordability crisis worse for Canadians. But former federal environment minister Catherine McKenna says the tax is a necessary tool in the climate change fight, and the focus should be on companies charging high prices.
Hands of a Midwife: How Inuit women brought birth home
For decades, Inuit women in northern Quebec had to travel south to give birth, far from family and support. That started to change in 1986 when the North’s first midwifery clinic opened in Puvirnituq. Duncan McCue takes us into that maternity centre with his documentary, Hands of a Midwife, which first aired in September.
Skilled migrants tied up in red tape
Migrants with foreign training often face complex barriers to getting a professional license here in Canada, but new legislation in B.C. aims to streamline that process. Two engineers tell us what it’s like trying to resume your career after migrating to Canada; and what the change might mean for the lawyers, teachers and social workers stuck in limbo.
How to decide if a heat pump is the right choice for you
Not many Canadians have a heat pump installed at home, but experts say making the switch could both save you money and reduce emissions. Guest host Duncan McCue digs into how the devices work, what they cost, and what government incentives are available for making the switch.
Why airlines have to stop treating wheelchairs like luggage
Landing at an airport without your mobility device is like having both your legs broken on arrival. That’s how Canada’s Chief Accessibility Officer Stephanie Cadieux felt after an airline left her wheelchair behind on a recent flight. She tells guest host Duncan McCue that “people with disabilities are paying customers … not problems.” Plus, hear from a Tofino teen making history as the first Canadian surfer to qualify for the Olympics
Ambulance wait times at crisis levels
Wait times for ambulances are at crisis levels in some parts of Canada, with reports that a 99-year-old Ontario woman waited more than four hours with a cracked vertebrae last month. What’s causing these delays, and what are the solutions?
Fight looming over Alberta’s threat to leave pension fund
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland says Alberta’s proposal to withdraw from the Canada Pension Plan would be a historic, costly and irreversible mistake. Freeland will meet with provincial and territorial finance ministers later this week; CBC senior reporter John Paul Tasker tells us what’s at stake.
How Israel-Hamas conflict is playing out in wider region
Matt Galloway discusses the Israel-Hamas conflict and its deadly impact on civilians inside Gaza with Rami Khouri, a distinguished fellow at the American University of Beirut; and Omar Rahman, a fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs.
The Current Introduces: Bloodlines
From BBC Sounds and CBC Podcasts. Syria. 2018. ISIS is on the brink of defeat. A toddler disappears in the chaos. In London, his grandad needs answers. Poonam Taneja investigates. More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/SHTtxkgL
Music can soothe physical pain, research shows
New Canadian research suggests that your favourite music could be as effective as ibuprofen for relieving pain. Darius Valevicius, lead author of the study, tells us more.
What Ed Broadbent thinks of today’s politics
Former federal NDP leader Ed Broadbent has been part of some of the biggest moments in Canadian political history, from opposing the War Measures Act to helping shape the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. He reflects on that legacy in his new book, Seeking Social Democracy: Seven Decades in the Fight for Equality.
What’s at stake with Canada’s new immigration plan?
A poll this week suggests a sharp drop in Canadian public support for immigration, even as the federal government moves to align immigration policy with the country’s needs in housing, infrastructure and health care. Matt Galloway asks three experts what those changes should look like and what's at stake for Canada’s future.
Malcolm Gladwell on what’s missing from the gun violence debate
Malcolm Gladwell's podcast Revisionist History recently had a special series dedicated to gun violence in the U.S. He talks to Matt Galloway about what’s missing from the conversation around gun culture, and what he learned when he shot an assault rifle for the first time.
Why schools are more likely to call moms when a kid gets sick
As flu season kicks in, many parents will get that dreaded call asking them to pick up a sick child from school. But new research suggests something many might long have suspected: schools often default to calling the mother, even when both parents expressed a desire to share the responsibility equally.
How three strangers are helping refugees start new lives in Canada
What do a former refugee from Afghanistan, an advocate in Canada and a retired academic in Australia have in common? In Alisa Siegel’s documentary Say Yes, they share a determination to help refugees start new lives in Canada. We hear how these three strangers found an unexpected connection, and pooled their money and skills to change lives forever.
Remember when the internet was fun?
New Yorker writer Kyle Chayka misses the days when the internet was fun. He tells us why and how he thinks the world wide web lost its spontaneity, and whether it's possible to get it back.
Tensions within Israel
Many Israelis have lost faith in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not preventing the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, says Yossi Alpher, but he adds that the population is broadly united in backing the military campaign in Gaza. Matt Galloway gets the view from inside Israel with Alpher, a former senior official with Israel's intelligence agency Mossad; and Ronen Bergman, a New York Times writer based in Tel Aviv.
As pandemic loans come due, many restaurants say they can’t pay
Repayment deadlines are looming for restaurants that took out government-backed CEBA loans to survive the pandemic — but many say they’re just not in a position to pay. We hear from industry insiders about what might happen if restaurants don’t get a break, and ask Minister for Small Business Rechie Valdez whether her government is heeding those concerns.
Why austerity is trending on TikTok
Amid the cost-of-living crisis, some social media creators are using their platforms to teach financial literacy and thrifty culture to a generation struggling to make ends meet.
A break in the federal carbon tax — for some
The federal Liberal government will exempt home heating oil from the carbon tax for three years, as well as doubling the rural supplement in the rebate program and offering new incentives to help rural Canadians switch to electric heat pumps. While some have welcomed the move as a way to help homeowners make that transition, others say it undercuts the government’s own climate strategy at a time when decisive action is needed.
Who is the real Buffy Sainte-Marie?
Buffy Sainte-Marie’s claims to Indigenous ancestry are being contradicted by members of her own family and an extensive investigation from The Fifth Estate. The iconic singer-songwriter has rejected the allegations, which she called “deeply hurtful.” Matt Galloway speaks to investigative reporter Geoff Leo, and Indigenous scholar Kim TallBear, who says if the accusations are true, “Buffy Sainte-Marie has appropriated or stolen the stories of some of the most vulnerable in our society.”
Convenient or annoying? The great self-checkout debate
Love them or hate them, self-checkouts have been popping up everywhere in recent years — but now Walmart has completely removed the kiosks from some stores. We hear why some stores are retreating from do-it-yourself payment, while others see a future free of cashiers.
Why Tiff Macklem won’t rule out more rate hikes
Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem says he knows Canadians feel financially squeezed by aggressive interest rate hikes, but insists doing nothing to curb inflation would have been worse. He tells Matt Galloway why he’s confident those measures are working, even if he’s not ruling out raising interest rates again in future.
Housing crisis leaves women stuck in abusive homes
It’s hard enough for women to leave a violent partner, but the housing crisis and a stretched shelter system are making it even harder for them to find a safe place to live. Advocates are calling for more comprehensive housing support, and warning that women will be killed if they’re left with nowhere to turn.
Taliban restrictions cuts women off from earthquake aid
A series of earthquakes have killed thousands of people in Afghanistan, and left thousands more in need of humanitarian aid. But relief workers say the Taliban’s restrictions on women are leaving some cut off from the help they need.
Retailers ‘under siege’ from big increase in theft
Retailers say they're seeing a significant increase in theft, including organized gangs, violent encounters and “shelf sweeps,” where an entire display of products is quickly stolen. We hear what businesses are doing to deter theft — from AI tools to controversial measures like receipt checks — and what it all means for consumers.
Searching for the missing children of ISIS fighters
Many young children of ISIS fighters disappeared after the militant group was defeated — and some have family around the world desperate to find them. Investigative reporter Poonam Taneja tells us about her new CBC/BBC podcast, Bloodlines, which tries to find one of those children, and discover what happened to hundreds more.
'Lemon law' proposed to protect consumers
Quebec is moving to protect consumers from planned obsolescence, by banning products intentionally built not to last, and reinforcing the right to repair (instead of replace). George Iny, executive director of the Automobile Protection Association Executive Director, tells us more about the proposed “lemon law.”
How war in the Middle East is creating tensions in Canadian politics
Our national affairs panel discusses how the Israel-Hamas conflict is playing out in Canadian party politics; and looks at ongoing tensions with India. Matt Galloway puts the questions to the CBC’s Rosemary Barton, the Globe and Mail’s Shannon Proudfoot and the National Post’s Catherine Lévesque.
What we learned from Israeli hostages released by Hamas
The CBC’s Margaret Evans brings us the latest from the Israel-Hamas war, including what Israeli hostages released Monday have revealed about their time in captivity. And the World Food Programme’s Abeer Etefa says the aid trickling into Gaza is just “a drop in the ocean” of what’s needed in the face of a deepening humanitarian crisis.
Finding optimism in the fight against climate change
Optimism can feel in short supply in the face of climate change and worsening fires, floods and extreme weather across Canada. Matt Galloway talks about where to find that hope — and how to turn it into action — with authors Rebecca Solnit, John Vaillant and Chris Turner in a panel discussion recorded at the Vancouver Writers Festival.
How Ozempic could change our relationship with food
The diabetes drug Ozempic has become extraordinarily popular as an off-label weight loss tool. But could medications like this be changing our relationship with food? We talk to long-time food writer Laura Reiley.
One father’s story of losing his teen daughter to toxic drugs
Kamilah Sword was just 14 when she died after a drug overdose last year. Her dad Greg Sword tells us about the obstacles he faced getting Kamilah the help she needed, and why he doesn’t want her death to be in vain. Matt Galloway also asks B.C.’s Minister for Mental Health and Addictions Jennifer Whiteside how her government is addressing the “terrifying” fact that unregulated drugs are now the leading cause of death for youth in her province.
Why some people love pickleball (and some hate it)
Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, but the sport has also courted controversy over noise pollution and taking over space in public parks. Matt Galloway picked up a paddle to find out why some people love pickleball and some hate it.
Michael Audain on how art changed his life
Vancouver businessman Michael Audain is one of Canada’s most prominent art collectors, often offering pieces from his private collection for public show and donating millions to galleries. He tells us about exploring his collection of paintings — and the stories behind them — in his new book, Pictures on the Wall: Building a Canadian Art Collection.
BONUS | Remembering Esther the Wonder Pig
Esther the Wonder Pig was adopted as a piglet by Steve Jenkins and Derek Walter in 2012, on the understanding that she wouldn’t get much bigger. But then she did — roughly 650 pounds bigger — and changed the couple’s lives forever. We listen back to when Anna Maria Tremonti met Esther and her dads in 2016, and remember a pig who won hearts around the world.
Olive oil's in danger!
Black market dealings. Large scale heists. These things are already happening for an everyday kitchen staple. Matt Galloway speaks to an olive oil producer and a researcher about the rising cost and increasing scarcity of olives in times of climate change. And asks if we’re all going to have to change the way we cook.
Confusion over when aid will reach Gaza
CBC foreign correspondent Chris Brown joins us from Jerusalem with the latest from the Israel-Hamas conflict, including the question of when humanitarian aid will be allowed into Gaza.
Waubgeshig Rice on telling truth through fiction
Waubgeshig Rice’s new novel Moon of the Turning Leaves is a sequel to his 2018 bestseller, about an Anishinaabe community reconnecting with the land and traditional knowledge after the collapse of wider society He tells Galloway about telling truth in fiction, and why it shouldn’t take a cataclysm to liberate Indigenous people from oppression.
‘Queen of Canada’ cult threatens executions in Sask. village
Far-right QAnon conspiracy theorist Romana Didulo and her followers have set up camp in the small village of Richmound, Sask. They’re threatening to publicly execute elected officials and community members who want them to leave. The CBC’s Sam Samson went there to meet residents worried about the woman who calls herself “The Queen of Canada.”
Israeli and Palestinian child psychologists tackling trauma of war
Two child psychologists — one Israeli, one a Palestinian-Israeli citizen — are working together to help children affected by war, and train the next generation of Palestinian, Arab-Israeli and Jewish-Israeli mental health professionals. Dr. Esti Galili-Weisstub and Dr. Shafiq Masalha tell Matt Galloway about their efforts to build trust between their communities.
A clue in the fight against long COVID
University of Pennsylvania researchers say serotonin levels in long COVID patients may offer a vital clue to understanding the debilitating condition — and perhaps start the process of developing an effective treatment.
50 years of the ‘backpacker’s bible’
Lonely Planet guidebooks have been the so-called “backpacker's bible” for 50 years, ever since Tony Wheeler and his wife Maureen self-published a guide based on their own adventure driving across Europe and Asia. Tony tells Matt Galloway about the joys of travelling off the beaten path, and how the name for the iconic books actually comes from a misheard lyric.
Building homes out of plastic bottles
The Canadian company JD Composites is building homes out of recycled plastic bottles — and tests show they’re sturdy enough to withstand hurricane-force winds. We hear how that model might help places where the changing climate is making weather more extreme.
Biden arrives in Middle East amid escalating crisis
U.S. President Joe Biden arrived in Israel amid a rapidly escalating crisis, and just hours after hundreds were killed in a blast at a hospital in Gaza. Matt Galloway talks to Bushra Khalidi, the policy lead for Oxfam in the West Bank, who is in Ramallah; Noga Tarnopolsky, an independent journalist based in Jerusalem; and United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.
Anglophone students still welcome in Quebec: minister
The Quebec government plans to almost double tuition fees for university students who come from outside the province — a move that Liberal Party of Quebec member Antoine Dionne Charest says is based on “political rhetoric” and could dissuade students from coming. But Quebec's Minister of Higher Education Pascale Déry says anglophone students are still welcome and her province’s universities are still competitive even with higher fees.
Rachel Maddow on the history of fascism in the U.S.
In her new book Prequel: An American Fight Against Fascism, Rachel Maddow looks at attempts to bring Nazi-inspired fascism to the U.S. in the 1930s. She tells Matt Galloway about listening to the echoes of history and what happens when stories from the past get buried.
B.C. cracks down on short-term rentals
B.C. is tightening rules on short-term rentals like Airbnb, in a bid to make more places available for long-term housing. Will the threat of hefty fines make it easier to find somewhere to live?
Margaret Evans in the Middle East
The CBC's Margaret Evans joins us from Jerusalem to discuss the latest in Israel’s war with Hamas, efforts to get humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and what to expect when U.S. President Joe Biden visits the region.
Thinking about quality of sleep, not just quantity
There is a growing body of research to show that REM sleep — short for Rapid Eye Movement — is critical to our daytime functioning. But are Canadians getting enough of it?
New Democrats meet in person for first time in five years
This weekend, New Democrats gathered in person for the first time in five years to hash out their policy agenda. Althia Raj, a national columnist at the Toronto Star, was there — she tells Galloway what she heard.
Jane Goodall never loses hope because without it 'we're doomed'
Iconic primatologist and conservationist, Jane Goodall, was in Toronto for a talk at Meridian Hall on Oct. 12. Matt Galloway visited her at her hotel that morning to learn about her groundbreaking work and insights into the urgent issues of conservation and climate change.
Surgeon in Gaza says it’s ‘impossible’ to evacuate patients
Ten days into the Hamas-Israel war, more than 2,750 people have been killed in Gaza, and at least 1,300 people in Israel. With a ground invasion looming, Israel is demanding all 1.1 million Palestinians in north Gaza leave. Matt Galloway speaks with a British-Palestinian surgeon who travelled to Gaza; an Israeli in Toronto who travelled to Israel to be with his injured brother; and Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C.
Éric Ripert puts ketchup on fish?
It’s a bit of a joke, but there are circumstances in which the renowned French chef would allow ketchup on fish. Éric Ripert joins Matt Galloway to share the stories behind his new cookbook Seafood Simple, which guides you from the fish counter to the frying pan — including his humble origin story. (When Ripert was starting out, becoming a chef was for “anti-social” kids with bad grades.)
Plus, he gives us a chef’s reality check on the hit TV show The Bear. (Accurate? “Not.”)
Where can we find hope? 'Nowhere,' says Gaza resident
The UN agency on the ground in Gaza is warning of a “humanitarian catastrophe” if safe corridors aren’t opened, amid Israeli airstrikes and a blockade of fuel, water and electricity. Matt Galloway talks to Isam Hammad, an engineer and regional manager of a medical equipment company, who’s sheltering with his family in Gaza City.
Evacuating Canadians out of Gaza and Israel
Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly says the evacuation of Canadians out of Israel will begin in a few days. But for Canadians trapped inside Gaza, there may be no way out. What’s being done to evacuate Canadians stuck in the conflict?
How post-war Canada shaped hockey legend Ken Dryden
Ken Dryden is best known for his hockey career, but his new memoir The Class tells the story of living in post-war Canada — through the lens of his high school graduating class.
Tackling denialism around unmarked graves at residential schools
The work of reckoning with residential schools is being hampered by limited access to records, a lack of support for families and outright denialism, says Kimberley Murray, the independent special interlocutor for unmarked graves at the institutions. She tells Matt Galloway about the obstacles she’s encountered helping families track down missing children, and what she needs from all levels of government.
Marathon runners are smashing records. How fast could they get?
Marathon runners are breaking records around the world, defying expectations and challenging assumptions about speed and endurance. What’s helping these athletes dash to glory, and just how fast could humans get?
Now not the time to question ‘blunder’ that missed Hamas attack: incoming ambassador to Canada
Israel’s ambassador-designate to Canada Iddo Moed says now is not the time to ask why the country’s intelligence services did not see Hamas’s surprise attack coming, but that “blunder” will be “addressed very thoroughly” in due course. Matt Galloway asks Iddo about growing public anger in Israel, and whether his government’s retaliation will subject civilians in Gaza to collective punishment as the conflict drags on.
Could AI put authors out of business?
Hundreds of writers have learned that their books have been used to train artificial intelligence to spit out imitations. Bestselling authors Sean Michaels and Linwood Barclay discuss what AI might mean for human creativity and artist compensation.
Is it time to adopt a 32-hour work week?
The push for a four-day workweek has been gaining momentum in recent years, primarily in office settings where salaried work is more common. But striking autoworkers in the U.S. are demanding 40 hours pay for a 32-hour week — could that model be adopted more widely?
Families fearful amid Israel-Hamas war
It has been four days since Hamas militants stormed into Israel, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to announce his country was at war. Matt Galloway talks to a man whose family members in Israel are missing; and a man in Gaza City, sheltering from air strikes with his own extended family.
Bedbugs infest Paris
Bedbugs are running rampant in the city of Paris, with the creepy crawlers spotted on trains and in schools and hospitals. How big of a problem are they in Canada, and how can you guard against them?
Perfection? This author says good enough is actually great
Many people strive for perfection, but Thomas Curran argues that we need to rethink our definition of success and achievement. In a conversation from September, he makes the case that perfectionism is overrated.
War returns between Israel and Hamas “very suddenly, but very totally”
Days after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, Israel has promised a “complete siege” of Hamas-controlled Gaza. Matt Galloway talks to Noga Tarnopolsky, an independent journalist in Jerusalem; and global affairs experts Janice Stein and Bruce Hoffman about what’s happening on the ground and why de-escalation won’t come any time soon.
Why Chris Hadfield’s life is ‘bizarre’ enough to fuel fiction
Before he was an astronaut, a young Chris Hadfield was a Cold War test pilot intercepting Soviet bombers. If that sounds like the beginning of a novel, you’re not far off. In conversation with Matt Galloway, the astronaut-turned-bestselling-author talks about his latest book The Defector — and how he builds a story from his real life. Plus, what he thinks about billionaires in space (see Elon Musk), and a friendly game of Name that Space Film.
Want to be an influencer? There’s a degree for that
A university in Ireland will soon offer a degree in how to be an influencer. We hear what the course involves — and whether graduates can expect to make big money online.
Canada’s place on world stage in ‘very sad state’
Canada’s status on the world stage is in a “very sad state” after years of diplomatic neglect under prime ministers Harper and Trudeau, says Guy Saint-Jacques, former ambassador to China. Amid a diplomatic row with India, Matt Galloway discusses Canada’s place in the world with Saint-Jacques and fellow former diplomats David McKinnon and Senator Peter Boehm.
Catholic leaders debate women priests, LGBT inclusion
Catholic leaders have gathered in Rome to debate issues around women’s ordination and greater inclusion for LGBT believers. But while women and lay people have been given a vote for the first time, conservative cardinals have warned of a “hostile takeover.” We talk to people working for change in the church, even if that change still feels very far off.
Kevin McCarthy ousted as U.S. House speaker
Kevin McCarthy has become the first U.S. House speaker in history to be ousted. Congressional reporter Max Cohen talks us through what this means for U.S. politics, amid looming threats of a government shutdown.
Wab Kinew says his win shows Manitobans want unity
Fresh from his election win in Manitoba, NDP Leader Wab Kinew talks to Matt Galloway about becoming the first First Nations provincial leader in Canada; and delivering on campaign promises around health care, affordability and searching a landfill for two missing women.
Steep rise in adults taking ADHD drugs
New data suggests a dramatic increase in adults taking ADHD medication. While many Canadians say these drugs have improved their daily lives, some physicians are concerned about overdiagnosis and health risks, if people are taking drugs they don’t need.
Why former NHL brawler Chris Nilan is offering his brain for study
Former NHL enforcer Chris “Knuckles” Nilan was a brawler on the ice long before links were drawn between hits to the head and traumatic brain injuries. Now Nilan is letting researchers study his brain to help protect the next generation of players.
Sam Bankman-Fried goes on trial
Sam Bankman-Fried goes on trial Tuesday, accused of fraud and scamming people out of billions of dollars with his cryptocurrency exchange FTX. We talk to technology reporter David Yaffe-Bellany, who’s waiting in line outside the courthouse.
Costco is selling gold bars. Really
Costco Canada is selling 24-carat gold bars for $2,679.99 each — and they’re flying off the shelves. But is it a good investment?
Using AI to decode the language of whales
Ottawa scientist Shane Gero is using artificial intelligence to decode the patterns of clicks and pauses that sperm whales use to communicate. He tells us why decoding the languages of animals could lead to better protections for the natural world.
Chris Snow, and the fight to make ALS a treatable disease
Calgary Flames assistant general manager Chris Snow died last week, after a four-year battle with the degenerative illness ALS. Snow spent his final years fighting to raise awareness about ALS, which he described as “not an incurable disease,” but an underfunded one.
Destroyed tree at Hadrian’s Wall is a sign of the ‘war on nature’: poet
A beloved tree near Hadrian’s Wall in northern England was cut down in the dead of night last week. Poet Robert Macfarlane says its destruction was a “gut punch,” and one that says a lot about our broken relationship with nature.
Antimatter falls, just like matter. Why is that important?
A team of researchers have proven that antimatter responds to gravity the same way as matter. Senior scientist Makoto Fujiwara tells us more.
This teacher spends $1,500 of her own money on classroom supplies
Grade 3 teacher Alexandra Sorin spends a lot of her own money buying basics like tissues for her classroom each year. She tells us why she’s resorted to Amazon wishlists to help cover those costs; and education expert Annie Kidder explains why we need to join the dots on what underfunded schools mean for Canada’s future.
Canada’s defence budget facing cuts of $1 billion
The Liberal federal government is looking to cut almost $1 billion from Canada’s defence budget over the next three years. Matt Galloway asks Defence Minister Bill Blair what kind of impact that will have, and what message it sends to both new recruits and the wider world.
Listeners share stories from the housing crisis
Last week’s special programming on soaring housing costs touched a nerve with listeners. We call up some of the Canadians who wrote to us with something to say.
What’s in the way for Indigenous doctors?
“Can an Indigenous girl from a small town become a doctor one day?” Kallie Ritchie is among a new generation of medical students hoping to change the face of healthcare. She chose a school that dropped the MCAT, one of a few Canadian universities changing how they assess and admit Indigenous applicants. But that hasn’t come without pushback. Indigenous physicians Dr. Brent Young and Dr. Alika Lafontaine weigh in on the shift and what needs to be done to diversify the next generation of doctors.P
Why Elon Musk isn’t a ‘chill, normal dude’
Walter Isaacson’s new biography of Elon Musk paints a picture of a risk-taker who is changing our world, but can be critically short on empathy. Isaacson tells Matt Galloway what he learned about the mercurial billionaire — and why Musk might be a hero, but not one you should emulate.
Exodus from Nagorno-Karabakh
The government of Azerbaijan has attacked Nagorno-Karabakh, a self-declared Armenian state that has existed within Azerbaijan’s border for decades. At least 65,000 ethnic Armenians have now fled their homes to escape the conflict, sparking a humanitarian crisis.
They were adopted as orphans. It was a lie
Almost 3,000 South Korean children were adopted by Canadian families after the Korean War, with paperwork stating they were orphans. But many are learning their parents are still alive and searching for them. Priscilla Ki Sun Hwang brings us her documentary, The Orphan Papers.
Could lawsuit lead to breakup of Amazon?
Amazon is being sued by 17 U.S. states and the Federal Trade Commission for allegedly monopolizing online sales, keeping prices artificially high and squeezing out competitors. What might the case mean for consumers and big tech monopolies?
At What Cost? A Public Forum on the Housing Crisis and Your Community
Weston used to be an affordable neighbourhood in Toronto, but soaring housing costs are putting home ownership out of reach and pushing more and more people into poverty.
It’s a dynamic that’s playing out across the country.
At a public forum in Weston, Matt Galloway talks to locals about the impact on their community, and the solutions that could be applied all across Canada.
The Current Introduces: Someone Knows Something | Season 8
Host David Ridgen joins victims' family members as they investigate cold cases, tracking down leads, speaking to suspects and searching for answers. In the highly-anticipated 8th season of Someone Knows Something, award-winning investigator David Ridgen delves into a cold case that has haunted Whitehorse for more than 15 years. Angel Carlick was a vibrant youth worker, nicknamed ‘Happy-Go-Lucky’ by her loved ones. She had plans after graduation to become legal guardian of her brother and work to
Could an extra year of residency steer doctors away from family medicine?
The shortest family medicine residency program in Canada is two years, but there’s now a plan to increase those to a minimum of three years. However, some practitioners are concerned the extra year will steer new doctors away from family medicine. Guest host Nora Young discusses the impact with Dr. Mike Green, head of family medicine at Queens University and the incoming president of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, and Dr. Sarah Lespérance, a family doctor and the president of Societ
Storm Fiona’s lingering impact in Newfoundland
It’s been a year since post-tropical storm Fiona ripped entire homes into the sea in Channel-Port aux Basques, N.L. Earlier this summer, Matt Galloway travelled there to meet residents still picking up the pieces and grappling with whether they can ever feel safe again, living so close to the ocean.
How to plant to prevent future forests from burning
Canada has lost more trees to wildfires this year than in any other year on record. It’s led some tree planters to question if their methods of the past have contributed to the fires of today. Guest host Nora Young speaks with two tree planters, and John Innes, the forest renewal B.C. chair in forest management.
Rebuilding Enterprise, N.W.T., following the wildfires
Mike St. Amour, the mayor of Enterprise, N.W.T., on rebuilding the hamlet near Hay River following the destructive August wildfires.
National affairs panel on Manitoba election
Manitoba’s provincial election is just over a week away. Our national affairs panel discusses healthcare, homelessness and the power of Indigenous voters in that province.
Zelenskyy visits Canada as Ukraine war drags on
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the Canadian parliament last week. But after he spoke, House Speaker Anthony Rota introduced World War Two veteran Yaroslav Hunka — to a standing ovation. It has since emerged that Hunka fought in a Nazi unit. Matt Galloway speaks with John Paul Tasker, a senior reporter with CBC's parliamentary bureau, about how this happened, and gets an update on the war in Ukraine.
Why rational people believe irrational things
Behavioural scientist Dan Ariely has spent years trying to understand why people believe in wild conspiracies. He shares his thoughts in his new book, Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things.
We’re trying something new…
Starting on Fridays this September, you’ll notice something different about our podcast feed. We’re bringing you one drop you can’t miss. Our best stuff that day. Chosen by us for you. All in about 30 minutes.
It’s time to talk about Khalistan
The Khalistan separatist movement is often the elephant in the room for Canadian Sikhs, says Satwinder Bains, an expert on the South Asian diaspora. "Maybe this is the point at which we say, 'The hell with it,' and have these conversations." The diplomatic crisis between Canada and India over the killing of a Khalistan advocate has put the push for a Sikh homeland back in the headlines. Bains thinks it’s time for the community to face the divisive issue, whether they support, oppose or are ambiv
Protests and counter-protests around teaching LGBTQ rights in schools
Thousands across Canada rallied against how schools teach about sexuality and gender identity on Wednesday. They were met by thousands of counter-protesters, who said they were defending LGBTQ students and families, and the schools that support them. Matt Galloway speaks with people on both sides of the protest.
Reconnecting with lost loved ones — with the power of AI
Some grieving Canadians are using artificial intelligence to create digital versions of the dead, in the hopes of re-connecting with people they’ve loved and lost. What will technology like this mean for how we grieve?
Finding healing on a surfboard, in wake of Hawaii wildfires
Surfboards are an important part of life in Hawaii — a way for people to connect to the waves and their culture. After many boards burned up in last month’s wildfires, surfboard shaper Jud Lau has been making and donating replacements to help survivors find healing.
What teen mental health support can learn from cancer care
Two new studies show a significant pandemic increase in ER visits and hospitalizations for teenagers due to self-harm or suicidal ideation. Experts say better mental health supports are needed — and a model for cancer care could be the path to providing them.
Questions swirl after India accused of targeted killing
Many questions remain after the bombshell accusation that India had a role in the killing of a Canadian. Matt Galloway asks Minister Harjit Sajjan whether the evidence behind the allegation will be made public, and discusses the fallout for Indo-Canadian relations.
How not to be a ‘classhole’
Jonathan Menjivar’s podcast Classy brings tricky conversations about class out into the open. He talks to Matt Galloway about feeling uncomfortable in fancy restaurants, dealing with “classholes,” and the hidden barriers that can hold people back.
Jagmeet Singh says sense of safety ‘shocked’ by accusation India played role in Canadian Sikh leader’s death
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused India’s government of involvement in the killing of Canadian Sikh community leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot in B.C. in June. Matt Galloway talks to NDP leader Jagmeet Singh about the reaction in his community; and former CSIS director Richard Fadden about what happens next.
Small Italian island struggles as 8,000 migrants arrive in one week
Thousands of migrants crossed the Mediterranean to reach the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa last week, doubling the island’s population. Megan Williams went there to find out how the locals — and the newcomers — are coping.
A humanitarian clown’s work in Ukraine
Guillaume Vermette has entertained traumatized children across the globe as Yahoo the humanitarian clown. But his recent trip to Ukraine was his first work in an active war zone.
This Newfoundland landscape could hold clues to life on Mars
The Tablelands is a patch of barren landscape — largely devoid of life — in Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park. But scientists have discovered a type of bacteria there that could teach us about the possibility of life in another inhospitable environment: Mars.
How to eat like your ancestors
Dismayed by the state of today’s food systems, Montreal author Taras Grescoe travelled the world to dig into the agricultural practices of the past. He tells us what he found — and about his new book, The Lost Supper: Searching for the Future of Food in the Flavours of the Past.
Strike deadline looming for autoworkers
A strike deadline is looming for Canadian autoworkers, whose U.S. counterparts are already on the picket line. We look at what a strike would mean for a sector still recovering from the pandemic and facing upheaval in the transition to electric vehicles.
Housing, cost of living in focus as parliament returns
The Conservatives are surging in the polls and there's discontent in the Liberal ranks. Our national affairs panel breaks down what to expect as parliament returns for the fall session.
Iran, one year after Mahsa Amini’s death
The death of Mahsa Amini in police custody sparked waves of protests in Iran. One year on, activist Masih Alinejad looks at the push for change and what, if anything, is different now.
Why we need to take a sledgehammer to perfectionism
Steve Jobs and Serena Williams are titans in spite of their perfectionism, not because of it, says Thomas Curran. The author of The Perfection Trap says socially prescribed perfectionism is an epidemic, and our fantasies about it are hurting rather than helping us. “It’s like a bottomless pit, or chasing the horizon.” Instead, the self-described recovering perfectionist says it's time we all embrace being good enough.
Nfld. peninsula divided over plan for 164 wind turbines
A proposed wind-hydrogen megaproject has divided people on the Port au Port Peninsula in western Newfoundland. Matt Galloway went there to hear from those concerned about the impact of building 164 enormous turbines — and those who think their communities can’t survive without this kind of economic opportunity.
Teaching kids the important lessons, Mr. Dressup style
A new documentary explores the life and career of Ernie Coombs, better known to generations of Canadians as Mr. Dressup. Matt Galloway talks to director Rob McCallum; and Judith Lawrence, the creator, voice and puppeteer behind the beloved Casey and Finnegan.
COVID-19’s still here. Now the challenge is talking about it
Health officials across the country are grappling with how to talk to the public about things like masks and COVID-19 booster vaccines, even as case numbers rise heading into the fall and winter. After three-and-a-half pandemic years, are people willing to listen?
E. coli outbreak affecting 264 Calgary children
In Calgary, 264 children have confirmed cases of E. coli — potentially the worst outbreak of E. coli in Canada. The source is still not confirmed, but it may be connected to a commercial kitchen with numerous health infractions that was hired by Calgary daycares. Matt Galloway speaks with a mother of a four-year-old who was hospitalized.
Dam breaches wash away entire Libyan neighbourhoods
Thousands of people are dead and missing in Libya after two dam breaches triggered floods that washed away entire neighbourhoods. Galloway hears how the impact of those floods are part of a decades-long neglect on the part of the country's leaders.
Uncovering the true meaning of strength
Alyssa Ages explores strongman and strongwoman culture in her new book, Secrets of Giants: A Journey to Uncover the True Meaning of Strength.
Putin and Kim Jong Un meet face-to-face
The Washington Post’s Michelle Lee breaks down a recent face-to-face meeting between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un.
The summer camp for trans and queer kids
Jen Markowitz's new documentary Summer Qamp follows a group of trans and queer kids at a summer camp in Alberta that's just for them — a safer space where they can have fun and make friends. Markowitz and two campers discuss the importance of a place where you can be yourself, away from political debate about your own identity.
What Filipino nurses leave behind to work in Canada
Thousands of Filipino nurses come to Canada every year, easing this country’s nursing shortage while also earning money to send back home. But that recruitment pipeline robs the Philippines of qualified nurses and splits Filipino families apart. The CBC’s Stephanie Dubois travelled to the Philippines to explore the impact there.
How Colson Whitehead wrote Crook Manifesto
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Colson Whitehead tells Matt Galloway about his new novel, Crook Manifesto. It’s a story about crime and redemption in 1970s Harlem, packed with characters unable to stay out of trouble.
Devastating earthquake hits remote Moroccan villages
A powerful earthquake has killed more than 2,400 people in Morocco, with rescuers racing against time to reach survivors in remote villages. Matt Galloway talks to one woman who says “my teeth were shaking in my head” when the quake hit her home in Marrakesh.
Your car might be tracking your sexual activity: report
Your car is gathering an alarming amount of data about you, including your genetic information and sexual activity, according to a new report from privacy experts. What are carmakers doing with that data?
Why Michael Crummey is interested in places on the edge
Michael Crummey’s new book The Adversary explores his familiar themes around life at the ocean's edge. Matt Galloway sat down with the author at the Woody Point Writers Festival in Newfoundland to discuss isolation, vulgarity and the responsibility that comes with telling the stories of home.
Using high-tech tools to clean the ocean floor
Researchers in Newfoundland are using high-tech tools like sonar and remotely operated vehicles to retrieve lost fishing gear from the bottom of the ocean floor. Matt Galloway took a boat trip to see what “ghost gear” lurks beneath the surface.
How Google became a ‘curator of the modern world’
Google turns 25 this month. BBC technology editor Zoe Kleinman talks us through how it grew from a humble search engine to the company powering so many aspects of our everyday lives.
Poilievre takes centre stage at first convention as leader
The Conservative Party’s policy convention is underway in Quebec City. Matt Galloway asks Sen. Denise Batters how her party intends to tackle the big issues facing Canadians; and our national affairs panel weighs up what’s at stake for Pierre Poilievre in his first convention as Conservative leader.
Remembering architect Raymond Moriyama
Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama died last week, leaving a legacy that includes the National War Museum and the Toronto Reference Library. His friend and fellow architect Bruce Kuwabara tells us about Moriyama’s childhood experience in a Japanese internment camp, and how it led him to make buildings that bring people together.
Why young Canadians don’t want ‘bloodsport politics’
Matt Galloway asks what we can expect from the trial of two key organizers of the truck convoy that paralyzed downtown Ottawa in 2022; and dissects a new report that says polarization is rife in Canada, but younger people in particular are rejecting “bloodsport politics.”
Hands of a Midwife: How Inuit women brought birth home
For decades, Inuit women in northern Quebec had to travel south to give birth, far from family and support. That started to change in 1986 when the North’s first midwifery clinic opened in Puvirnituq. Duncan McCue takes us into that maternity centre with his documentary, Hands of a Midwife.
China’s young grapple with rocky economy
Young people in China are graduating into an economic slump, unsure if they’ll enjoy the same prosperity that their parents’ generation enjoyed. We hear about mounting anxiety across the contracting economy — and what it might mean for Canada.
Rate hikes pushed her mortgage up $2,700 a month
The Bank of Canada has raised interest rates 10 times in the past 18 months, leaving homeowner Sarah Dueck struggling with a monthly $6,300 bill. Have the hikes done enough to tackle inflation? When can Canadians feeling the squeeze expect some relief?
How AI gave a paralyzed woman her voice back
Ann Johnson was left paralyzed and unable to speak after a massive stroke at age 30. But now, a team of researchers has used artificial intelligence to give the Regina woman her voice back, allowing her and her husband to have their first real-time conversation in 18 years.
Wildfires leave deep emotional wounds in B.C.
People in B.C. are starting to count the cost of recent wildfires, with some describing “the nothingness” they’re facing as flames die down. The CBC’s Chris Walker spoke to people about what they’ve lost and what comes next.
How to restart a city: Yellowknifers get ready to go home
Yellowknife residents can return home on Wednesday, three weeks after forest fires forced virtually everyone in the N.W.T. city to evacuate. We talk to a Yellowknifer nervous about returning, and hear about the logistics of getting an evacuated city back up and running.
Storm Fiona’s lingering impact in Newfoundland
It’s been a year since post-tropical storm Fiona ripped entire homes into the sea in Channel-Port aux Basques, N.L. Matt Galloway travelled there to meet residents still picking up the pieces and grappling with whether they can ever feel safe again, living so close to the ocean.
A side of Terry Fox you might not know
Bill Vigars was in the van with Terry Fox on his Marathon of Hope in 1980. His new book, Terry & Me, shares little-known stories about Fox.
New short stories from Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood’s new book, Old Babes in the Wood, is a collection of short stories that may be her most personal work yet. Earlier this year, Galloway spoke with her about those old babes, grief and loss, censorship, and whether she thinks artificial intelligence could ever replicate her writing.
Questions about AI’s role in the classroom
AI-powered programs like ChatGPT have the potential to transform society, but they’ve also made it much easier to cheat. As students get ready to return to school, what is the role of AI in the classroom?
The environmental cost of a summer of fire
This has been the worst fire season on record. Lives have been lost, homes destroyed, communities evacuated — and fires are still burning across Canada. Matt Galloway speaks with Susan Ormiston, the CBC’s international climate correspondent, about the effects of this forest fire season.
Greenbelt controversy ‘not going away’
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has faced sharp criticism for opening up protected Greenbelt land for housing development. Ford says it’s a necessary move to tackle the housing crisis, but the plan has prompted damning reports from watchdogs, a high-level staff resignation and a possible RCMP investigation.
Rethinking ‘mommy brain’
postpartum brain fog is familiar for many mothers — sometimes dismissively called “mommy brain.” But research now suggests it's actually a time when women's brains are rewiring themselves to learn new skills, multi-task and even have better memory later in life.
The music that shaped change in Egypt
In her new book, Laughter in The Dark: Egypt To The Tune of Change, Yasmine El Rashidi charts the powerful role music has played in shifting societal norms in Egypt, from the Arab Spring to today.
Why warming oceans are making hurricanes worse
Hurricane Idalia slammed into Florida this week, leaving chaos in its wake. Guest host Susan Bonner hears why warming oceans are making hurricane season more destructive — and how communities in their path can adapt.
How to cope with rising back-to-school costs
Some parents are turning to charities for help with back-to-school supplies, as inflation drives the cost into hundreds of dollars. Guest host Susan Bonner hears why bargains are getting harder to find, as parents try to bargain with kids’ expectations.
Martin Luther King Jr., the man behind the myth
In a conversation from June, Jonathan Eig discusses his biography of Martin Luther King Jr., which aims to tell the whole story of a complicated man.
Are international students getting a raw deal?
International students who come to Canada are learning hard lessons about the housing crisis, as well as promises of jobs and immigration opportunities that don’t materialize. Guest host Susan Bonner asks how the system could be reformed — and who’s responsible.
How bluefin tuna went from trash to treasure
One hundred years ago, fishermen routinely threw bluefin tuna back into the sea. But now, the fish is the basis of a multi-billion dollar food industry. Karen Pinchin tells the story of what changed in her new book Kings of Their Own Ocean, and explores how one particular fish nicknamed Amelia Earhart was key to conservation efforts.
Love and friendship, with an AI chatbot
More and more people are forming friendships and even romantic relationships with AI chatbots, prompting concerns among experts who study the ethics around the rapidly evolving technology. In a conversation from June, Matt Galloway explores the world of artificial intelligence companions.
Short 8,000 teachers, Quebec opens jobs to unqualified
A shortage of more than 8,000 teachers has prompted Quebec to open up the jobs to people without training or experience — alarming some parents. Guest host Susan Bonner asks what’s driving the staffing shortage and what might solve it.
After wildfires, N.W.T. premier is done ‘begging’ for infrastructure help
Fighting the wildfires in the Northwest Territories has been complicated by gaps in travel and communication infrastructure — problems that Premier Caroline Cochrane says the federal government should have fixed years ago. She tells guest host Susan Bonner why she’s angry about “pleading and begging to have the same infrastructure that people in the south take for granted”; and federal Minister of Emergency Preparedness Harjit Sajjan responds.
Why Stephen Hawking had doubts about his biggest theories
Cosmologist Thomas Gertog was a long-time close collaborator of Stephen Hawking, the physicist who explored the origins of the universe in A Brief History of Time. In a conversation from April, Gertog tells Matt Galloway about the moment that Hawking revealed he had second thoughts about some of his biggest ideas.
Why we’re fascinated with bears, from killers to cuddly teddies
In her new book Eight Bears: Mythic Past and Imperiled Future, Gloria Dickie explores the creature’s special place in many cultures and societies — and asks why humanity’s history with bears is often draped in cruelty.
Rowdy Republican debate didn’t dwell on Trump
Frontrunner Donald Trump skipped the first Republican presidential primary debate Wednesday, but his opponents didn’t spend much time talking about him. Our political pundits lay out the winners and losers in a rowdy debate, and discuss what to expect as Trump surrenders to officials in Georgia over charges that he conspired to steal the 2020 election.
Yevgeny Prigozhin’s presumed death shouldn’t be a surprise: reporter
Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin is presumed to have died in a plane crash Wednesday, two months after he led a brief armed rebellion against President Vladimir Putin. What does his death mean for the war in Ukraine and dissent in Russia?
Will climate change make your home uninsurable?
More and more Canadians are losing their homes and businesses to fires and floods — and then facing a battle with their insurance companies. Guest host Susan Bonner delves into how insurance is changing in the face of climate change; whether homes in high-risk areas could simply become uninsurable; and if extreme weather could push up rates for everyone.
Why wasn’t killer nurse Lucy Letby caught sooner?
British nurse Lucy Letby has been convicted of murdering seven babies in her care, and the attempted murder of six more. Sunday Times Shaun Lintern explains the case, and why the country’s health-care system now faces questions about how Letby was able to kill repeatedly, even though staff around her raised concerns.
New COVID-19 variant: Dr. Isaac Bogoch answers your questions
A highly mutated variant of COVID-19 has emerged in a handful of cases, sparking fears of a potential spike in cases this fall. Infectious diseases doctor Isaac Bogoch answers questions from listeners about BA.2.86.
What outdoor workers need to know about extreme heat
People who must work outside are grappling with extreme heat, as climate change drives temperatures higher. What is being done to protect workers under the glaring sun?
Family in shock after wildfires destroy dream home
Spi7uwe Sqalemc poured his blood, sweat and tears into building his family’s dream home in B.C.’s interior — only to watch it burn last week in the wildfires ravaging the province. He tells us about his family’s shock and disbelief, as the loss sinks in.
War-time effort needed to fix housing crisis: expert
Developers in Montreal were told to include affordable housing in their projects or face fines — so they’re paying the fines. Guest host Susan Bonner digs into Canada’s housing crisis and asks what it will take to get some affordable housing built.
The dark histories behind some birds’ names
Some birds and animals are named after historical figures, but there’s a growing awareness of the atrocities some of those figures committed. In a conversation from June, science writer Ed Yong tells Matt Galloway about the push to rename some species — and why it's harder than you might think.
Minister pledges recovery support for wildfire victims
Wildfires have forced thousands to leave their homes in British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. Guest host Susan Bonner speaks with people grappling with that threat to their communities, and asks federal Minister of Emergency Preparedness Harjit Sajjan what the government is doing to help.
Intense wildfires here ‘for the rest of our lives’: author
This summer’s record-breaking fire season is just the beginning of a “massive reckoning” tied to climate change, says John Vaillant, author of Fire Weather. He argues that wildfires have entered a new age of intensity, which we will wrestle with for the rest of our lives.
Why the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup may be a win for women’s soccer
Then, as England and Spain get set to face off in Sunday’s final, we look back at what has been a memorable 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup — and why it may be a watershed moment for women’s soccer.
Residents share Yellowknife evacuation experiences
Yellowknife residents have until noon today to evacuate the city. Guest host Catherine Cullen speaks with some of those who are leaving their homes behind; and Mike Westwick, the fire information officer for Yellowknife.
Yellowknife residents ordered to evacuate by Friday noon
The wildfire situation in the Northwest Territories has reached new extremes, to the point that people in Yellowknife have been ordered to evacuate their homes by noon tomorrow. Guest host Catherine Cullen speaks with people who have evacuated or are preparing to evacuate; and N.W.T Environment Minister Shane Thompson, who called the evacuation order.
The extraordinary life of Dag Aabye
Born in Nazi-occupied Norway, Dag Aabye became one of the world's first extreme skiers, a Hollywood stuntman, a logger and eventually, an ultra-marathoner. Now 82, he lives in a bus in the B.C. bush, running two to six hours a day and occasionally befriending bears. We talk to Aabye and journalist Brett Popplewell, who has written about Aabye’s extraordinary life in Outsider: An Old Man, A Mountain and the Search for a Hidden Past.
Yellowknife mayor on wildfire emergency
A wildfire burning northwest of Yellowknife is inching closer toward the city, prompting the declaration of a local state of emergency. Yellowknife Mayor Rebecca Alty tells us more about the wildfire and the risk it’s posing to the city.
Advocate report finds N.B. gender policy changes violate children’s rights
A report released yesterday by New Brunswick’s child and youth advocate concluded that changes to gender identity policy for N.B. schools violate provincial law and the charter rights of children. Guest host Catherine Cullen speaks with Kelly Lamrock about his concerns and recommendations to change Policy 713; and the father of a trans teen who spoke to Lamrock as part of the consultations ahead of the report.
Why the international space race is heating up again
Russia and India currently have lunar landing craft hurtling toward the moon, while China, the U.S. and Canada all have their own plans for lunar landings. We hear why the international space race is heating up again.
Hawaiians helping the community — while fighting their own grief
As aid and recovery work in Hawaii continues, locals want to make sure they are leading the next steps. Guest host Catherine Cullen hears from two Hawaiians helping their community while fighting their own grief, and from the president of the non-profit charity, the Maui United Way.
Including mental health in summer camp programming
Along with campfires and sing-alongs, mental health supports are becoming an important part of some summer camps. We discuss why the trend is on the rise — and what it means for kids who are struggling.
One daughter's push to help her mother through music
Marjorie Taft has dementia and sometimes struggles to stay engaged with the world around her. Her daughter, Beverly Taft, works hard to keep her participating in life. This includes taking Marjorie to her weekly piano performances with Recollectiv, a Toronto group for musicians with memory challenges. We hear their story in Alisa Siegel’s documentary, The Person She’s Always Been.
Revisiting Afghanistan, two years after the Taliban takeover
It has been two years since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan. Since then, more than a million Afghans have fled the country — some to Canada. But for many of those who stayed, life under the Taliban has become desperate. Guest host Catherine Cullen hears about Afghans’ struggle to survive; and speaks with an Afghan woman who has started a new life here in Canada.
Bringing back bison
Sixteen bison were reintroduced to Banff National Park in 2017. That number will swell to around 100 after this year's calving season. In May, Matt Galloway visited Tsuut'ina Nation in Alberta to hear about bringing back beasts that once roamed Canada in the millions.
How a postpartum depression pill could provide new hope for struggling mothers
Thousands of new moms suffer from postpartum depression without effective treatment. But a new postpartum depression drug approved in the U.S. — Zuranolone — could offer some hope. Two clinical trials found it effective and fast-acting. Guest host Anthony Germain speaks with a mom who participated in one of the trials and that trial’s principal investigator; and discusses the interest the drug is getting on our side of the border with Dr. Tuong Vi Nguyen, a reproductive psychiatrist at the McGil
Devastation in Hawaii as lethal fires sweep through Maui
Devastation in Hawaii after hellish and lethal fires swept through Maui. Hawaii is in a state of emergency, with at least 55 people dead and thousands others forced from their homes. We hear from Hawaiians recovering from the destruction.
Remembering Canadian musician Robbie Robertson
Canadian musician Robbie Robertson has died at the age of 80, after a long illness. Music writer and broadcaster Alan Cross tells us about Robertson’s legacy.
Campfire paella? Finer dining in the great outdoors
in his new recipe book Cook It Wild, food writer and former restaurant critic Chris Nuttall-Smith aims to elevate campfire cooking from baked beans and hotdogs to dishes like paella and risotto.
How mega-concerts are transforming the music industry
When Taylor Swift's Eras tour finally rolls into Toronto in November 2024, fan expectations will be high — but so will the expectations of an economic boost. Guest host Anthony Germain speaks with two experts about the business of mega-concerts; and a Taylor Swift fan trying to get tickets.
News organizations ask Competition Bureau to investigate Meta's move to block news in Canada
Canadian news media organizations — including CBC — have filed a complaint with the Competition Bureau, accusing the social media giant Meta of abusing its dominant market position. To unpack what this means for the regulation of technology companies, guest host Anthony Germain speaks with journalist Cory Doctorow, a special advisor to the Electronic Frontier Foundation and Jennifer Quaid, an associate professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in competition law.
Journalist Jake Tapper on how truth can be just as strange as fiction
Journalist Jake Tapper has spent years covering U.S. politics. This work has inspired his latest novel, All the Demons Are Here: A Thriller. He tells us how truth can be just as strange as fiction.
Bringing scorched lands back to life
Out-of-control wildfires have sent smoke billowing across North America this year, and will set a record for devastation in Canadian forests — particularly in British Columbia and Quebec. But even under fire, nature is resilient. Guest host Anthony Germain looks at rebuilding and regeneration — and the hope that some Indigenous ways and new science will help our forests rise from the ashes.
What sheep shearing during the pandemic taught author Peggy Orenstein
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and many people hunkered down at home, author Peggy Orenstein decided to embark on a more ambitious project: shearing sheep and making a sweater. She talks with us about that experience and her new book, Unraveling: What I Learned About Life While Shearing Sheep, Dyeing Wool and Making the World's Ugliest Sweater.
The challenges facing struggling cannabis business owners
In an effort to help cannabis retailers, the Ontario Cannabis Store announced they’ll be lowering their wholesale prices this fall. But there are concerns it won’t be enough to keep some struggling shops afloat — and retailers in other provinces want help too. Guest host Anthony Germain hears about the over-saturated market from two Canadian cannabis store owners and Michael Armstrong, an associate professor of operations research at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont.
Movie star Andrew McCarthy on walking 800 kilometres with his son
Movie star Andrew McCarthy wanted to spend some time with his 19-year-old son Sam, so the pair walked 800 kilometres along Spain's Camino de Santiago. McCarthy talks to us about fatherhood, fame and how walking can help solve some of life's biggest problems.
The international implications of the coup in Niger
A coup has thrown Niger into turmoil. Now, the ousted president is calling on the international community to restore order. Guest host Catherine Cullen hears the latest from in Niger, and speaks with two experts about why countries — including Canada — are watching with deep concern.
New book photographs Atlantic Canada
Darren Calabrese was working as an award-winning photojournalist in Toronto — far from his New Brunswick roots. But when a family tragedy struck, he felt a pull to return home. He tells us about his new book, Leaving Good Things Behind: Photographs of Atlantic Canada.
Women lead abortion access lawsuit against Texas
Amanda Zurawski was told around 18 weeks into her pregnancy that it would result in the loss of her daughter, Willow. She says it took a near-death experience before doctors could operate. Now she is the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against the state of Texas over its abortion access laws. Guest host Catherine Cullen speaks with Zurawski, as well as the legislative director of Texas Right to Life and a maternal fetal medicine physician.
Anti-smoking messaging to be printed on cigarettes
New Health Canada regulations will require warning labels on individual cigarettes. Guest host Catherine Cullen hears about what this means for Canada — and what the current state of smoking is worldwide.
What warming waters could mean for marine life
A heatwave has caused areas between the Florida Keys to heat up. A race is on to save coral species from what could be mass die-off. Cullen hears from two scientists in the Florida Keys.
CEBA repayment deadline looms on small businesses
The Canada Emergency Business Account repayment deadline is looming, but some small businesses say they need more time to pay the loans back. Guest host Catherine Cullen speaks with one jewelry wholesaler in Toronto; Dan Kelly, president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business; and Franco Terrazzano of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.
Journalist Roy MacGregor on a career in print journalism
Journalist Roy MacGregor covered many of Canada’s most significant moments. He tells us about his life in print journalism — and his new book, Paper Trails: From the Backwoods to the Front Page, a Life in Stories.
The rise of a more empowered labour movement
About 3,700 workers at Metro grocery stores are on strike across the greater Toronto area, asking for better pay and improved working conditions. Guest host Catherine Cullen talks to one striking Metro working; and discusses the rise of a more empowered labour movement with Barry Eidlin, an associate professor at McGill University.
Wildfires put Osoyoos, B.C., on evacuation alert
More than 700 homes in Osoyoos, B.C., had to be evacuated after a wildfire jumped the U.S.-Canada border on the weekend. More than 2,000 other properties are on evacuation alert. We hear how the wildfire has affected residents.
Reviving the endangered art of handwriting
In an era of texting, voice memos and email, some people are pushing to revive the handwritten word. Hetty Roessingh, professor emeritus at the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, talks about that push.
The fight against fraud in Canada
New numbers from Statistics Canada show that Canadians lost $530 million to fraud in 2021 — 40 per cent more than the year before. Guest host Catherine Cullen hears from a Regina woman who was almost taken in by a scammer pretending to be her grandson; and two experts about protecting against scams.
What do fresh charges mean for Trump 2024?
Former U.S. president Donald Trump faces new charges over classified documents, as well as a potential indictment for alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Philip Bump, national columnist for the Washington Post, unpacks what that means for Trump’s bid for re-election.
Is Shohei Ohtani the best baseball player ever?
Baseball player Shohei Ohtani has been breaking records with the Los Angeles Angels, prompting some to speculate that he might be the best player the game has ever seen. John Thorn, official historian for Major League Baseball, breaks down why Ohtani might be as good as the legendary Babe Ruth, and whether that’s even a fair comparison.
Inuit elders seek healing, closure at a former sanatorium
Inuit diagnosed with tuberculosis in the 1950s and ’60s were removed from their homes and families in the North, and brought to sanatoriums in southern Canada, where they endured years of isolation and sometimes abuse. This week, a group of Inuit elders visited the site of a former sanatorium in Hamilton, Ont., in a search for healing and closure.
The surprises in Trudeau’s cabinet shuffle
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet shuffle offered some surprises and several new faces. Guest host Kathleen Goldhar breaks down the changes with our national affairs panel: host of CBC Radio’s The House Catherine Cullen; National Post parliamentary reporter Ryan Tumilty and Le Devoir columnist Emilie Nicolas.
Is humanity ready for an alien encounter?
A self-styled whistleblower has told U.S. lawmakers that the Pentagon is concealing knowledge of UFOs and aliens — something the government denies. We ask Seth Shostak, a senior astronomer at the SETI Institute, what an encounter with aliens might look like.
Taking the tech out of travel
Going on vacation these days can involve glitchy apps and hard-to-scan QR codes — and fewer actual humans to talk to when you run into a problem. We hear why some frustrated holidaymakers are choosing tech-free travel.
Rift deepens over Israel’s judicial reform
Protests continue in Israel after the country’s parliament approved a key part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's divisive plan for judicial reform. Ronen Bergman, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, tells us more about the deepening rift.
Making meat more sustainable
If you’re a big meat eater, cutting back could be the same as taking 8 million cars off the road, according to a new Oxford University study. Guest host Kathleen Goldhar hears about efforts to reduce carbon emissions and why it’s important to look at the food production system as a whole.
How your cut hair can help the environment
Most salons and barbershops send the hair they’ve cut to landfills — but what if it could be recycled instead? We hear about how hair clippings can be given a new lease on life, from creating bioplastic to mopping up oil spills.
The fate of a U.S. soldier who ran into North Korea
A U.S. soldier bolted across the heavily-fortified North Korean border last week — and hasn’t been heard from since. Guest host Kathleen Goldhar talks to two experts about the soldier’s fate, as well as ongoing missile launches and fears of widespread famine in the region.
Ontario’s history-making all-Black baseball team
The Chatham Coloured All-Stars were an all-Black baseball team from Ontario that won big back in 1934. In a conversation from June, Matt Galloway talks to the sons of two players, Don Tabron and Blake Harding; and Heidi L.M. Jacobs, author of the book 1934: The Chatham Coloured All-Stars’ Barrier-Breaking Year.
Firefighters mourn colleagues killed in action
Three firefighters have died in what is already one of Canada’s worst wildfire seasons on record. Guest host Kathleen Goldhar discusses the impact of those deaths with a firefighter on the front lines and a trainee ready to join the fray.
Record rainfall floods Nova Scotia
We hear about the devastating floods that hit Nova Scotia over the weekend — and the difficult clean-up ahead.
Chef Ricardo Larrivée bids adieu to TV
Celebrity chef and cookbook author Ricardo Larrivée has been called the Martha Stewart of French Canada. We revisit his conversation with Matt Galloway from April, when Larrivée left his TV kitchen after 21 seasons and nearly 3,000 episodes.
The case for free contraception in Canada
A new birth control pill will be available over the counter without prescription next year in the U.S. But in Canada, access can depend on where you live, whether you have a family doctor and if you have the money to pay for it. Guest host Rosemary Barton speaks to two doctors about why caring for women's reproductive health is still a challenge.
Unpacking the Oppenheimer enigma
A blockbuster biopic of J. Robert Oppenheimer hits cinemas today. We talk to a historian about the physicist’s role in the creation of the world's first atomic bomb — and why his legacy continues to shape the world.
Wood carving no longer an 'old man's' hobby
Wood carving is sometimes seen as a hobby for older men, but carvers say more young people and women are getting involved. We visit the Canadian National Wildfowl Carving Championship to hear why whittling is winning over a new generation of artists.
How Barbie moved with the times (and sometimes got it wrong)
As the much-hyped Barbie movie finally hits theatres, we take a look at how the doll became a cultural icon — and a magnet for criticism.
From Arizona to Athens, the world swelters
Scorching temperatures are pummeling parts of Europe and the U.S., breaking records and prompting spikes in heat-related illnesses, injuries and even deaths. Guest host Rosemary Barton hears how people are coping in Arizona, and asks the UN's Global Chief Heat Officer Eleni Myrivili how the world should adapt to heat waves and climate change.
High hopes for Canada at Women’s World Cup
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup kicked off in Australia and New Zealand, with high hopes for Canada — despite the team’s ongoing labour dispute with its own governing body. Andi Petrillo, host of CBC Sports' Soccer North, tells us what to expect.
The restaurants that shaped Canadian cuisine
Canadian cuisine can be hard to define, which is why Gabby Peyton looked at 150 restaurants to examine our country’s dining. She tells that story in her new book, Where We Ate: A Field Guide to Canada's Restaurants, Past and Present.
Refugees forced to sleep on Toronto streets
Refugee claimants and asylum seekers have been sleeping on Toronto’s streets for weeks, due to a lack of housing and an overwhelmed shelter system. While the federal government has pledged new funding to provide housing, some churches and organizations have felt forced to fill the gap by providing direct assistance. Guest host Rosemary Barton speaks to two refugee advocates about how things got so bad — and what needs to be fixed long term.
Hollywood strikes threaten Canada’s film industry
Actors have joined writers in Hollywood strike, bringing film and TV production to a halt. Guest host Rosemary Barton hears about union concerns around pay and artificial intelligence — and the potential impact on tens of thousands of workers in Canada’s film industry.
New drug slows Alzheimer's for some
Clinical trials for a new Alzheimer's drug, donanemab, suggests it can slow the disease’s progress for some people — but comes with some risks. We ask neurologist Dr. Sandra Black how the drug works, and where we stand in the fight to make Alzheimer's a treatable disease.
School offers Mayan youth an alternative to hard road north
Young people from Mayan communities in Guatemala often migrate north to the U.S., fleeing poverty and a lack of opportunity. But a UN-supported boarding school outside Puerto Barrios is offering training and education in the hopes of giving them a chance to stay.
What rising interest rates mean for Canadians
The Bank of Canada raised its key interest rate again last week, with the aim of pushing down inflation; but already-struggling Canadians are starting to question whether the strategy is working. Guest host Rosemary Barton talks to economists Armine Yalnizyan and Pedro Antunes.
Why talking to strangers is good for you
Not everyone enjoys making small talk with strangers, but research shows it can be good for your health. In a conversation from January, Matt Galloway hears about a U.K. project encouraging people on public transport to take the leap and say hello.
Dupe culture: Why Gen Z is embracing fakes
Online shoppers are embracing “dupes,” products that look exactly like big brand-name items but are much cheaper. We hear from consumers who say they shouldn’t be made to feel ashamed for wanting something more affordable, and designers and small businesses who say the knock-offs hurt their bottom line.
The problem with BMI
The American Medical Association has advised doctors to exercise caution around using Body Mass Index to assess a patient’s health. We talk to Dr. Sonia Anand about the limitations and alternatives.
Families of murdered Indigenous women demand landfill search
Manitoba’s provincial government is saying it’s too dangerous to search a landfill north of Winnipeg, which is suspected to hold the remains of two murdered Indigenous women. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan talks to a family member about why they’re demanding the province change that decision.
Crossword guru Will Shortz on why we love puzzles
Will Shortz has been The New York Times’ crossword editor for 30 years. He tells us about why puzzles mean so much to people — and how to keep them relevant for a new generation.
Deep-sea mining: The race for critical minerals
A Canadian company says that deep-sea mining could yield valuable minerals used in battery production, which could help the switchover to electric vehicles. But, environmentalists warn of irrevocable damage to sea life. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan and the CBC's Susan Ormiston discuss the balance of curbing climate change without causing further harm to the environment.
Sharing the road with e-bikes and scooters
E-bikes and e-scooters are taking cities by storm, sparking safety concerns and calls for clarity around who goes where on roads and bike paths. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan hears about a changing urban landscape — and how these new modes of transport can be integrated safely.
How AI could help African farmers cope with climate change
A team of researchers in Senegal has developed an artificial intelligence tool to predict possible growing conditions — and help farmers across Africa adapt to a changing climate. We hear about how it works, and who it might help.
Pinball enthusiasts hit the jackpot
The origins of pinball date back almost a century, but the tactile game is enjoying a resurgence among Canadians. In a conversation from January, producer Alison Masemann meets some pinball fanatics.
NATO grapples with how to support Ukraine
Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership will be discussed at the organization’s annual summit in Lithuania this week. Robyn Bresnahan hosts a panel discussion about what countries can do to support Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion — and how Moscow might respond.
The art thief who stole for love, not money
Stéphane Breitwieser and Anne-Catherine Kleinklaus stole hundreds of pieces of valuable art — but they did it out of a love for beautiful things, not monetary gain. Author Michael Finkel tells their story in the new book, The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime and a Dangerous Obsession.
Academics face threats over what they teach
A stabbing at a University of Waterloo gender studies class has alarmed educators and students across Canada. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan talks to three academics about threats they’ve faced for what they teach, and how universities need to do to make staff and students feel safe.
Celebrating Eleanor Wachtel
Eleanor Wachtel has retired after 33 years as host of the CBC’s Writers & Company. She spoke with Matt Galloway about her career — and the art of an interview — in front of a live audience last month.
Twitter, Threads and the fragmentation of social media
Facebook's parent company Meta has launched Threads, a new app pitched as a friendly alternative to Twitter. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan talks to two experts about the increasing fragmentation of social media, and the consequences of losing platforms once viewed as the internet’s “public square.”
The Lac-Mégantic rail disaster, ten years on
It’s been ten years since a runaway train carrying crude oil exploded in Lac-Mégantic, Que., killing 47 people. The CBC’s Alison Northcott visits a town rebuilt after the disaster and meets a community still grappling with grief.
Iron deficiency in young women
A new study says nearly 40 per cent of young women and girls are iron deficient. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan learns more about the symptoms and why the problem is often missed.
The fate of primates used in medical research
A recent viral video shows a 28-year-old chimpanzee named Vanilla seeing the sky for the first time, after spending her early years in a laboratory. We talk to the group that helped to rehabilitate Vanilla — and learn about the research that still relies on non-human primates.
How Newfoundland puffins repopulated Maine
In 1973 a conservation project brought Newfoundland puffins to Maine, where the species had been nearly wiped out by hunting. We hear about an ecological success story and how the descendants of those puffins are doing, 50 years later.
Summer camps grapple with extreme heat and smoky air
As summer camps kick off across Canada, organizers are grappling with how to keep children safe from extreme heat and lingering wildfire smoke. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan hears about the efforts to keep camp fun, while also mitigating the health risks.
The joys and perils of pickleball
Pickleball’s popularity continues to grow among older people — but injuries are stopping play for some. We hear about the joy people find in the sport and some of the perils.
How Ukraine’s children are coping with war
Children in Ukraine have had their lives turned upside down by Russia’s invasion. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan hears about the ways they’re coping with the trauma and why psychologists fear the long-term impacts could be devastating.
ER closures concern small-town residents
Emergency rooms across Canada are closing due to staff shortages, and those who work in small towns say they're worried about the months ahead. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan hears from an advocate and a doctor about what could be another difficult summer.
The mysterious ‘orca uprising’
Orcas have been ramming yachts and fishing boats off the coast of southwest Europe for months — in some cases terrifying their crews and captains. Guest host Susan Ormiston explores the mystery behind this so-called “orca uprising,” and learns why we should avoid projecting human psychology onto these complex creatures.
Island life threatened by rising seas
Rising sea levels pose an existential threat to islands around the world, forcing millions to confront their future as their homes lose ground to climate change. We talk to two islanders about why preserving island culture, from the Seychelles to Puerto Rico, is so important.
Meet Josef Lewkowicz, the 96-year-old Nazi hunter
Josef Lewkowicz survived several camps during the Holocaust — and brought some of those responsible to justice. Now in his nineties, he’s telling his story in a memoir, The Survivor: How I Survived Six Concentration Camps and Became a Nazi Hunter.
Extreme heat puts power grids under pressure
Record-setting temperatures in the southern U.S. are forcing people to stay inside and crank up the air-conditioning. Guest host Susan Ormiston hears about the pressure that’s putting on the power grid, and whether rising temperatures in Canada could lead to power shortages.
Phonics set for comeback in teaching kids to read
Ontario is hoping that a renewed focus on phonics can help kids catch up on literacy after the pandemic. We hear more about the benefits of sounding out each letter and the long-running disagreements over the best way to teach kids to read.
The Current Introduces: The Banned Teacher
From the host that brought you The Band Played On, The Banned Teacher is a new investigation, in a different city. He says it was consensual sex. She says it was rape. He was her music teacher. She was a teen. And it wasn't just once, with one girl. He had sex with students in closets, classrooms, and cars. The Banned Teacher begins with one victim's search for justice but turns into a full investigation by host Julie Ireton. Warning: This series contains graphic descriptions of sexual assault.
Foreign firefighters help battle Canada's wildfires
Firefighters from around the world have come to help tackle the wildfires blazing across Canada. Guest host Susan Ormiston talks to General Eric Flores from France and Antoinette Jini from South Africa about why this wildfire season is among the worst they’ve seen.
Russia revolt leaves Putin’s power ‘shaken’
Historian and author Anne Applebaum dissects the short-lived Wagner revolt in Russia and what it might mean for President Vladimir Putin’s future.
Seeking justice, one woman found other survivors
A new CBC podcast investigation has found 15 women who say they were harassed, propositioned or sexually assaulted by the same Toronto-area high school teacher when they were teenagers. Guest host Susan Ormiston talks to Julie Ireton, host of The Banned Teacher.
A quest to find the Amazon's tallest tree
Deep in the Amazon rainforest there’s a tree as tall as the Statue of Liberty. Forest engineer Eric Bastos Görgens tells us why he and his team braved dense jungle, spider bites and deadly snakes to find it.
N.B. child protection system accused of failing kids
Child abuse and neglect cases have made headlines in New Brunswick over the last three decades, prompting promises of change in the child protection system. But the union representing front-line child welfare staff says things are getting worse. Karissa Donkin, who’s with the CBC's Atlantic investigative unit, tells us more.
Russia’s chaotic weekend — and what happens next
It was a chaotic and confusing weekend in Russia, after the Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin vowed to topple the military leaders in Russia. But after a deal was brokered by Belarus, he agreed to turn his mercenaries back from their move toward Moscow. Guest host Susan Ormiston speaks with experts and a reporter about the region’s intense weekend.
What's next for Lytton residents, two years after devastating wildfires?
Two years after wildfires razed much of Lytton, B.C., we return to the area to learn about the challenges facing those hoping to rebuild, the new mayor trying to lead the charge and why some have chosen to start new somewhere else.
Could the Titan disaster stall future Titanic research?
Titanic historian Craig Sopin was friends with Paul-Henri Nargeolet, one of five people lost aboard the Titan submersible. He tells Matt Galloway about what Nargeolet was like and what the disaster could mean for future exploration of the Titanic shipwreck.
This Ontario mother graduated in her late son's place, and other graduation stories
Many students overcome big challenges to reach their graduation day. Danita Algar's son Ben started a carpentry program at Durham College in 2020. But last week, she was the one to finish it. For Tyrell Bird, one teacher had such an impact it made him want to become an educator himself.
How Alberta farmers are dealing with debilitating droughts
Hot and dry weather has helped fuel the wildfires we have been hearing about. But the heat and lack of moisture have also had a serious impact on farmers' crops. Last week, the county of Stettler in northern Alberta declared an agricultural disaster. We hear from grain and cattle farmer JD Johnson and Stephen Vanderwalk, vice president of the Wheat Growers Association, about how the drought is affecting their farms and livelihoods.
Ontario town divided over Pride flags
The town of Norwich, Ont., passed a by-law against flying anything other than official government flags on municipal property — a change that critics say targets LGBT Pride flags. The CBC’s Katie Nicholson brings us her documentary about a town divided.
Ultra-processed foods: What’s lurking in your fridge?
The term ultra-processed foods may bring to mind sugary drinks or snacks, but chances are it fits more of the stuff in your fridge than you think. In a conversation from May, Mark Kelley talks to physician Chris van Tulleken about the health impacts.
Anxious search for loved ones after migrant ship capsizes
Dozens of people died and hundreds are still missing after a boat carrying as many as 750 migrants capsized in the Mediterranean last week. Megan Williams travelled to Greece to talk with survivors, and anxious families awaiting news of loved ones.
Martin Luther King Jr., the man behind the legend
Jonathan Eig’s new biography of Martin Luther King Jr. aims to tell the whole story of a complicated man, from his incredible successes to his deep personal struggles.
Young Indigenous journalists on the stories they want to tell
Matt Galloway talks to three budding Indigenous journalists — Tchadas Leo, Sara Kae and Tanner Isaac — about the role they want to play in sharing what's really happening in their communities.
How to fight the misogyny of Andrew Tate
Online influencer and self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate has been charged with rape and human trafficking in Romania. We unpack his enormous impact on boys and young men, here in Canada and abroad.
Women fighting gender-based violence in Honduras
Gender-based violence in Honduras often forces women to flee for a safer life elsewhere. The Current’s Liz Hoath brings us the story of how some women in a gang-controlled neighbourhood have stayed to help prevent that abuse.
Montreal police chief spends 5 days living on streets
Earlier this month, Montreal Chief of Police Fady Dagher spent five days living on the streets, sleeping in shelters and visiting community groups. He’s mandating that new recruits get four weeks of “immersion training” in the communities they will serve — but not everyone is convinced.
What’s it like aboard the missing Titanic tourist vessel?
A submersible taking people down to view the wreck of the Titanic has gone missing in the Atlantic. We talk to journalist David Pogue, who was on that vessel last year.
Ozempic, stigma and weight loss culture
The diabetes drug Ozempic doubles as a weight loss drug by killing food cravings, but some Canadians take it in secret due to stigma and shame. Matt Galloway talks to people about what taking the drug has meant for them — and a woman who has refused her doctor’s repeated suggestions she take it.
Dauphin comes together after bus crash kills 15
The community in Dauphin, Man., is grappling with grief after 15 seniors were killed in a bus crash last week. We speak with those helping their neighbours navigate this tragedy.
Why Pride celebrations feel different this year
Amid a rising number of hate-related incidents, particularly targeting trans people, Pride feels different for many in the LGBTQ community this year. We talk to three people about their anxiety — and determination — in the face of hate.
Erin O’Toole on solving Canada’s ‘malaise’
Matt Galloway talks to former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole, who has left public life and used his final speech in the House of Commons to warn MPs about social media and “performance politics.”
Political fallout of Paul Bernardo prison transfer
Our national affairs panel discusses Erin O’Toole’s final House of Commons speech and the political fallout from the prison transfer of convicted serial killer Paul Bernardo. Matt Galloway talks to Toronto Star reporter Stephanie Levitz; the National Post’s Ryan Tumilty; and Catherine Cullen, host of CBC Radio’s The House.
Twisted etymologies in the language of food
Historian Judith Tschann explores the twisted roots of the words we use to describe food, from bibimbap to cocktails, in her book Romaine Wasn't Built In A Day: The Delightful History of Food Language.
Young Sudanese fear for their futures
Two months after conflict flared up in Sudan, young people are grappling with what their future might hold. We talk to Alaa Mustafa, a young mother who is still in Sudan but recently had to flee her home in Khartoum.
A crack in the ice, and a changing climate
Photojournalist Dustin Patar ventured to Canada’s far north with scientists studying the aftermath of the collapse of the Milne Ice Shelf. He discusses the award-winning images he captured, and how a crack in the ice tells the story of a changing climate.
Seniors killed in Manitoba crash
We hear about a tragedy in Manitoba, where at least 15 seniors were killed Thursday when their bus collided with a semi-trailer near Carberry, Man.
NHL star Henri Richard had CTE, family reveals
Hockey legend Henri Richard died in 2020, but his family has now revealed that he had CTE, the brain disease linked to repeated traumatic brain injuries. Matt Galloway talks to his friend and teammate Ken Dryden, and cognitive neurologist Dr. Matthew Burke.
Tackling gender-based violence in Honduras
Lyzanka Garcia and her family fled Honduras for the U.S. when she was just a teenager, fearing violence in her home country. Now she's back in Honduras, helping women who are seeking a better life, especially those threatened by gender-based violence. The Current’s Liz Hoath brings us her story.
Concerns about melatonin use in children
Doctors are raising concerns about the increased use of melatonin as a sleep aid for children. They’re pointing to a spike in calls to poison control centres and a lack of clarity about what's actually in those gummies kids are gobbling up.
Are cellphones in class a distraction or a vital tool?
A B.C. teacher says she’s seen improved grades after banning cellphones in the classroom. We talk to educators and students about whether the devices are a distraction or an important tool for learning and safety.
Meet Martinus Evans, the 300-pound marathon runner
Martinus Evans has run several marathons — at his own gloriously slow pace — and started the Slow AF Run Club to inspire other plus-sized people to lace up their running shoes. He tells us about challenging what society might think an athlete looks like — and why it’s not about being the fastest.
Canada commits new $500 million to Ukraine’s war effort
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid a surprise visit to Ukraine over the weekend, confirming $500 million in new funding for military assistance. The CBC’s Margaret Evans tells us what she’s seeing on the ground in Ukraine; and Matt Galloway discusses how that money will be spent with international relations expert Alexander Lanoszka.
UFO research slowly going public
Canadian officials recently attended a classified Pentagon meeting about unidentified flying objects — amid separate claims that the U.S. is in possession of several alien spacecraft. We hear about efforts to better understand these mysterious objects, and why NASA is slowly making its investigations public.
Children survive 40 days in Colombian jungle
We hear about four children, aged from 12 months to 13 years, who survived alone in the Colombian jungle for 40 days, after a plane crash that killed their mother.
Fears of violence at Trump arraignment
Former U.S. president Donald Trump will be arraigned in Miami Tuesday, amid fears of violence outside the courthouse and beyond. Matt Galloway talks to a reporter at the scene; and an author who has spent time with Trump’s supporters, learning about what fuels their loyalty.
A mother-son firefighting team
We read audience letters responding to the shortage of volunteer firefighters, and talk to Nadine Setzer and Finn Setzer, a mother-and-son firefighting team on Denman Island, B.C.
Nick Taylor breaks curse of the Canadian Open
B.C. golfer Nick Taylor won the RBC Canadian Open on Sunday, becoming the first Canadian to do so in 69 years. Sports reporter John Chidley-Hill was there; he tells Matt Galloway how Taylor broke “the curse.”
Students duped by immigration scams face deportation
Hundreds of international students from India have been threatened with deportation after their original offers to study in Canada turned out to be fake. We discuss what might happen next, and what needs to happen to protect students from immigration scams.
How basketball helped the Sheshatshiu Eagles soar
At Sheshatshiu Innu School in Labrador, a new high school basketball team is changing how students feel about their education. The CBC’s John Gaudi introduces us to the Sheshatshiu Eagles in his documentary, The Joy of Basketball.
Winemakers grapple with climate change
Winemakers are grappling with the impact of climate change, from extreme temperatures in B.C. to catastrophic flooding in Italy. We hear why grape growing might be the “canary in the coalmine” when it comes to tackling climate change, and how vintners might adapt.
The struggle to recruit volunteer firefighters
Around 70 per cent of firefighters in Canada are volunteers, but growing demand and high risk mean it's getting harder to recruit people for the job. Matt Galloway talks to volunteers about the work they do, and hears about the risks posed by the shortage.
‘Close to miraculous’: Piano survives enormous fire
After a fire swept through a former monastery in Montreal last month, staff were surprised to find two items had survived: an antique harpsichord and a grand piano. Oliver Esmonde-White has cared for that piano for 28 years; he tells us what it was like to find it largely unscathed.
The dramatic rise in car thefts
A new report says car thefts across Canada are reaching national crisis levels. We take a look inside the crime rings taking your ride, and ask what you can do to stop your car from being stolen.
What is solastalgia?
Wildfires and smoky skies have prompted feelings of grief and anxiety for many, as they watch their home environment change around them in real time. There’s a word for that feeling: solastalgia.
Ontario’s history-making all-Black baseball team
The Chatham Coloured All-Stars were an all-Black baseball team from Ontario that won big back in 1934. We talk to the sons of two players, Donald Tabron and Blake Harding; and Heidi L.M. Jacobs, author of the new book 1934: The Chatham Coloured All-Stars’ Barrier-Breaking Year.
The money and morals of Saudi golf merger
The PGA Tour will merge with Saudi Arabia’s LIV Golf, a breakaway league financed by the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund. Although it brings pro golfers back under one roof, the deal reignited debates about money in sport, and concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record just five years after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Struggling Canadians face another rate hike
The Bank of Canada raised its key interest rate again Wednesday. Matt Galloway talks to people who were already struggling and now find themselves in an even tighter bind. Plus, an economist dissects whether the bank’s approach will work to bring down inflation or disproportionately hurt lower-income Canadians.
The psychology behind the tip screen
Tipping is now commonplace in all sorts of Canadian businesses, with take-out restaurants and even retail stores presenting customers with a tip screen starting at 18 per cent. We discuss that shift in tipping culture, and how the technology employed can play on our desire to seem generous.
Residents flee dam explosion in southern Ukraine
Thousands have fled flooding after a massive dam breach in the Russian-controlled town of Nova Kakhovka in southern Ukraine. We discuss what is and isn't known about the explosion, and the Dnipro River’s role in the lives of those in the region.
Tenants unionize to fight rising rents
In the face of a growing housing crisis, some Canadians are pushing back against rising rents. Matt Galloway talks to tenants forming unions to engage in collective bargaining with landlords, and others who are on strike, refusing to pay their rent.
The end of Chinatown?
Chinatowns across Canada have long been a vital community resource, but development and changing cultural patterns have put them under threat. We hear about the documentary Big Fight In Little Chinatown, which looks at a new generation’s efforts to save them.
How wildfire smoke affects your health
Wildfires have created smoky skies across much of Canada, with air quality and smog warnings in various parts of the country. Matt Galloway talks to a doctor and a meteorologist about the health risks, and whether climate change means these hazy skies are the new normal.
A ‘penicillin moment’ in war against cancer?
While a cure for cancer still seems like a long way off, there are remarkable advancements in tackling the disease in the lungs, pancreas and cervix. We hear about some of those breakthroughs, including a study that suggests a daily pill can significantly cut lung cancer mortality.
The extraordinary life of Dag Aabye
Born in Nazi-occupied Norway, Dag Aabye became one of the world's first extreme skiers, a Hollywood stuntman, a logger and eventually, an ultra-marathoner. Now 82, he lives in a bus in the B.C. bush, running two to six hours a day and occasionally befriending bears. We talk to Aabye and journalist Brett Popplewell, who has written about Aabye’s extraordinary life in Outsider: An Old Man, A Mountain and the Search for a Hidden Past.
At Guatemala’s border, migrants face a choice
At the Guatemala-Honduras border, a drop-in centre offers migrants and refugees a chance to rest and regroup — and perhaps consider staying in Central America instead of continuing the dangerous journey north. The Current's Liz Hoath takes us to the border in her documentary Can’t Go Back.
Is 3D printing the future of fish dinners?
One day, the fish you eat might not come from the sea, but from a 3D printer. We hear about a company getting rave reviews for their fillets — printed using real fish cells grown in a laboratory — and discuss what the technology might mean for the fight against hunger.
Unpacking the latest in Canadian politics
Our national affairs panel unpacks the latest in Canadian politics, from foreign interference to a new leader in the West. Matt Galloway talks to the CBC’s Catherine Cullen; National Post parliamentary reporter Catherine Lévesque; and Globe and Mail reporter Carrie Tait.
A Canadian on Ukraine’s frontlines
When Russia invaded Ukraine, former Canadian army reservist Brandon Mitchell went to the frontlines. He tells us why he went to fight a war in a country he has no connection to; and the Globe and Mail's Mark MacKinnon brings us the latest from Kyiv.
The dark histories behind some birds’ names
Some birds and animals are named after historical figures, but there is a growing awareness of the atrocities some of those figures committed. Science writer Ed Yong tells us about the push to rename some species — and why it's harder to change them than you might think.
Stories of kindness in the Nova Scotia wildfires
Wildfires have displaced thousands of Nova Scotians this week, but stories of kindness have emerged from the devastation. Matt Galloway brings us tales of strangers helping strangers.
Love and friendship, with an AI chatbot
More people are forming friendships and even romantic relationships with AI chatbots, prompting concerns among experts who study the ethics around the rapidly evolving technology.
String of horses die at renowned race track
A dozen horses have died in the past month at Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Hundreds of thoroughbreds die at race tracks every year, raising questions about whether profits are being put ahead of animal welfare.
Fears of renewed violence in Kosovo
The fallout from recent elections in Kosovo has raised the spectre of renewed violence in the country. We hear how the situation escalated to this point — and how bloodshed can be avoided.
Tracking bad reactions to natural health products
Health Canada is looking to include natural health products in the Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act, also known as Vanessa’s Law. The Act requires the reporting of serious adverse effects of medications. Matt Galloway talks to an ER doctor and a naturopath about the natural health products that many Canadians are regularly taking.
The Excavation of WH
The remains of a Black sailor from the 1800s — now known as WH — were discovered on the coast of Labrador in 1987. Now, scientists and artists are coming together to solve the mystery of who he was. Alisa Siegel explores his story in her documentary The Excavation of WH.
Farmers object to housing on prime Ontario farmland
Ontario farmers are rallying against provincial proposals that would allow housing to be built on prime farmland. The proposals aim to alleviate the housing crisis, but farmers argue the loss of land could put Canada's food security at risk.
Saving animals from N.S. wildfires
As wildfires spread through Nova Scotia last weekend, Lisa Parsons ran through the bush to rescue 18 dogs trapped in an overnight kennel. She tells us why she did it, and how she’s helping to reunite other rescued animals with their owners.
Referees adopt body cameras to confront abuse
Referees will wear body cameras as part of an Ontario Soccer pilot program to protect them from abusive parents, coaches and players. We discuss what’s behind the aggression, and its mental health impact on and off the pitch.
Doctor raises alarm about emergency room crisis
At Surrey Memorial Hospital in B.C., emergency room physicians say understaffing and overcrowding are putting patients at risk — but local health officials are not being transparent about the crisis. We talk to Dr. Urbain Ip, one of the physicians who signed an open letter calling out health officials for ignoring their concerns.
Canadian Derek Gee wins hearts at Giro D'Italia
Derek Gee was the only Canadian cyclist competing in this year’s Giro D'Italia, winning an army of fans for his grit and tenacity. He tells us what it takes to ride up Italian mountains with the best in the world.
Dissecting Alberta’s election result
The United Conservative Party has won Alberta’s provincial election, giving Danielle Smith four more years as premier. Matt Galloway discusses what the result means for the province and Canada, with former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi; former city councillor Jeromy Farkas; and Michael Solberg, a staffer in the government of former prime minister Stephen Harper.
Grief and anger in earthquake-stricken Turkey
Thousands remain homeless after the deadly earthquakes that struck Turkey in February. The CBC's Briar Stewart takes us to the city of Antakya, where reconstruction is slow, and there is a burning anger around accusations that fraud and corruption fuelled the disaster.
Helping teens cope with depression
Teenagers living with depression in Canada often go undiagnosed and untreated. We hear about a mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic, and the role family doctors could play in providing the care those teens need.
AI helps kill drug-resistant superbug
Scientists have used artificial intelligence to find a treatment for a deadly superbug that, until now, was resistant to antibiotics. We talk to one of the researchers responsible, and discuss the benefits and possible consequences of implementing AI in health care.
Thousands flee fire outside Halifax
Thousands of people have been evacuated after a fast-moving wildfire got out of control northwest of Halifax on Sunday, destroying several homes. Matt Galloway talks with people who have fled the fire, and hears about efforts to contain it.
Halifax Declaration: Improving the lives of Black Canadians
The Halifax Declaration lists demands and expectations for improving the lives of Black Canadians. Matt Galloway talks to former governor general Michaëlle Jean, whose foundation spearheaded the document’s creation; and one of its authors, the activist and poet El Jones.
The bloody battle for Bakhmut
Russia’s Wagner Group says they have taken the city of Bakhmut, but Ukraine says that’s not true. We talk to a photojournalist in Ukraine who has covered the long and bloody battle for Bakhmut, and discuss what it says about the course of a war that continues to grind on.
Bringing back bison
Sixteen bison were reintroduced to Banff National Park in 2017. That number will swell to around 100 after this year's calving season. Matt Galloway visits Tsuut'ina Nation in Alberta to hear about bringing back beasts that once roamed Canada in the millions.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announces U.S. presidential bid
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has made headlines for his action on anti-abortion bills, book banning and a high-profile feud with Disney. Now, he’s announced his U.S. presidential bid. We talk to a journalist and a Republican strategist about his campaign and what it means in the race against Donald Trump.
Holocaust survivor Josef Lewkowicz tells his story in a new memoir
Josef Lewkowicz survived several camps during the Holocaust. Now 96, he’s telling his story in a new memoir, The Survivor: How I Survived Six Concentration Camps and Became a Nazi Hunter.
Cleaning up the Seine River in Paris
The Seine in Paris may be an iconic landmark, but it’s also polluted with pathogens from sewage waste. But, with the 2024 Summer Olympics coming up — and Paris hosting — there are plans to clean the river and make it safe for swimming. We hear from one scientist who’s part of the clean-up process and a freshwater ecosystems researcher about Canada’s attempts to clean its own waterways.
How the Colorado River deal could change what Canadians eat
Three U.S. states have reached a landmark deal to draw less water from the Colorado River, which is at risk of drying up due to drought and chronic overuse. We hear how that deal will affect agriculture and some of the food that reaches Canadian plates.
Sen. Patrick Brazeau wants Canadians to think about the dangers of alcohol
Quebec Sen. Patrick Brazeau has often spoken about his struggles with alcohol and his path to sobriety. Now, he wants Canadians to think about their own relationship with drinking. He tells us why he’s pushing for health warning labels on alcoholic beverages.
No public inquiry into foreign interference
Special rapporteur David Johnston has recommended against a public inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian politics, but highlighted “serious shortcomings” in how security agencies communicate intelligence to the government. Matt Galloway discusses Johnston’s findings with Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto Star; and Dick Fadden, former director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.
Campfire paella? Finer dining in the great outdoors
In his new recipe book Cook It Wild, food writer and former restaurant critic Chris Nuttall-Smith aims to elevate campfire cooking from baked beans and hotdogs to dishes like paella and risotto.
Carmakers ditching AM radio
AM radio has long kept drivers company with sports coverage, music and call-in shows, but some automakers are dropping AM receivers in their new models. We hear about the history and influence of AM radio, and ask what might be lost if it disappears from the dashboard.
Author Charles Foran on getting to know his father before he died
In his new book Just Once, No More, author Charles Foran writes about getting to know his dad at the end of his life — and what that taught him about his own mortality.
Canada’s teen vaping crisis
New data shows that the number of Canadian teens regularly using e-cigarettes is among the highest in the world. Matt Galloway talks to a teenager trying to kick the habit, and discusses the health risks with two researchers who have worked on youth vaping.
How a cookbook about the humble cabbage led to a $12,000 cheque for a P.E.I. women’s shelter
Ann Thurlow’s cookbook focused on the humble cabbage has grown into a boon for a women's shelter in Charlottetown, P.E.I. We hear from Thurlow about how her pandemic project turned into a runaway publishing success; and Liz Corney, co-founder and director of Blooming House, which recently received a $12,000 cheque from Thurlow.
Canada’s burgeoning veterinarian crisis
The unprecedented burnout in the medical profession isn’t just for doctors and nurses who treat humans, but people who care for animals too. We hear about the impact the veterinarian shortage is having on people and their pets, both large and small.
BONUS | Why putting out the fire is just the start of the fight
As firefighters rush toward the wildfires spreading across Alberta, some will be exposed to carcinogens and mental health pressures that surface long after the fires are out. In this special podcast, Matt Galloway talks to two firefighters about the risk of cancer in their work, and how they’ve gotten better at talking about mental health.
BONUS | Inside the minds of Alberta’s divided voters
Matt Galloway takes a train ride through Calgary to get the lay of the political landscape with former mayor Naheed Nenshi, former city councillor Jeromy Farkas, and former political staffer Michael Solberg. And four voters, from all walks of life, discuss what might sway their ballots as Alberta’s provincial election draws near.
They're not Indigenous, but they're learning Indigenous languages
Junaid Khan is one of a growing number of non-Indigenous people in Canada learning Indigenous languages. In this documentary from March, Duncan McCue brings us Khan’s story and looks at the recent swell of interest in Indigenous languages in Canada.
Why gardeners are ditching grass for native plants
Some experts say a perfectly manicured lawn is a biodiversity killer, and growing plants native to your region instead can create a vital home for bees, butterflies and birds. But, local regulations don’t always recognize that value. We hear from a London, Ont., woman who came home from vacation to find local officials had destroyed her pollinator garden.
When intimate partner violence leads to concussion
A new campaign from the YWCA in Vancouver is highlighting a hidden epidemic: women suffering from concussions after being physically assaulted by their partners. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to a woman who suffered such a concussion, and an advocate trying to help survivors of intimate partner violence.
From cancer to mental health, firefighters face challenges long after the smoke clears
Lorne Miller is confident his cancer was linked to his work as a firefighter — and he’s pleased that Alberta has now expanded workplace compensation coverage for the disease. We talk to Miller and Aaron Bowers, another firefighter in the province, about the strains of their work and how they’ve gotten better at talking about mental health.
Evacuated Albertans feel left in limbo, as wildfires ravage the province
Thousands have fled the wildfires threatening their homes and communities in Alberta. Matt Galloway talks to those in temporary shelter, left in limbo as the fires drag on; and author Edward Struzik discusses the climate conditions that are fuelling the catastrophe.
Red Deer’s hospital is in crisis. Solving the problem could become an election issue
Services are stretched razor-thin at the hospital in Red Deer, Alta., with an upgraded facility promised for 2030. But with a provincial election looming, locals say they can’t wait that long. They tell us why a transition plan is needed to ensure patients get the care they need.
Battleground Calgary: What’s at issue in Alberta’s provincial election?
In Calgary, a key battleground in Alberta’s provincial election, Matt Galloway takes the CTrain that criss-crosses the city with three resident political pundits: former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi; former city councillor Jeromy Farkas; and Michael Solberg, a former staffer in the government of former prime minister Stephen Harper.
What matters most to voters in Alberta’s pivotal election?
Matt Galloway sits down with four voters, from all walks of life, to find out what might sway their ballots as Alberta’s provincial election draws near.
Wildfires leave first responders exhausted, communities on edge
It’s been an early and particularly devastating start to wildfire season in Alberta. We hear about the first responders battling the blazes, the people forced to flee and the communities giving them refuge.
The health impacts of ultra-processed foods — and what’s lurking in your fridge
Ultra-processed foods may sound like sugary drinks or snacks, but chances are the description fits more of the stuff in your fridge than you might think. Physician Chris van Tulleken tells us about his new book Ultra-Processed People and the health impacts of what’s lurking in our cupboards.
Social media moderators face disturbing content daily. Some are demanding a fair wage
Content moderators weed out a lot of violence and hate from social media feeds and AI tools like ChatGPT — but are paid very little in some places. We talk to a worker in Kenya involved in unionization efforts; and hear how workers could be better protected from disturbing content.
B.C. woman frustrated after third no-fault eviction in 15 years
New research says British Columbia’s rate of no-fault evictions — where a tenant is forced out through no fault of their own — is more than twice the national average. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to a renter who has been evicted three times in 15 years; and hears from an advocate and an economist about the impact of renovictions on Canada’s rental market.
Coming up: The Current, live from Alberta
The Current will broadcast live from Alberta later this week, where a provincial election is playing out against the backdrop of devastating wildfires. Matt Galloway tells us what we’ll hear.
The fight to preserve and revive Canada’s quiet places
Noise pollution is a pervasive problem, making it hard to find a truly quiet space anymore. We talk to Jonathan Kawchuk, the Canadian representative for Quiet Parks International, an organization trying to preserve and revive quiet spaces, for our health and for the betterment of the natural world.
Turkey heading for run-off election
Turkey is heading for a run-off election, with no presidential candidate reaching the 50 per cent required for an outright win. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to voters and observers within the country about what’s at stake.
Hormone therapy is effective against menopause symptoms, new study says
A controversial 2002 study reported a small increased risk of heart disease and breast cancer in women who used hormone therapy to treat the symptoms of menopause. We hear about a new clinical review that weighs the benefits against the risks — and suggests more women should discuss HRT with their doctors.
Why a more diverse look at the human genome could be step to personalized medicine
Scientists have unveiled a pangenome, based on genetic sequences from 47 people of diverse ethnic backgrounds. We hear whether this more accurate and inclusive edition of our genetic code could be a step towards personalized medicine, treatments tailored specifically to you and your precise health needs.
Indigenous chef shuts down restaurant after losing sense of smell
Anishinaabe chef Gerry Brandon wanted to bring Indigenous, English and French flavours together in his northern Ontario restaurant L'Autochtone Taverne Américaine. But now he’s selling up after losing his sense of smell to COVID-19.
Fire weather creating ‘explosive conditions’ for devastating blazes, says author
Canadian writer John Vaillant says climate change is creating the perfect conditions for devastating wildfires, like the ones ravaging parts of Alberta right now. He talks to Matt Galloway about his new book Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast.
Public inquiry into abuse in amateur sports can’t be ‘half-baked’: Liberal MP Adam van Koeverden
The federal government has announced measures to tackle poor governance at Canada’s national sport organizations, but those measures do not include a public inquiry into abuse in amateur sports. Matt Galloway talks to Adam van Koeverden, parliamentary secretary to Minister of Sport Pascale St-Onge.
Gene-editing could make some vegetables tastier. But should it?
Scientists are using gene-editing tools to make vegetables like brussels sprouts and kale taste better — and perhaps seem more attractive to picky eaters. We talk to Michael Wolf, founder of the food tech publication The Spoon, who has tasted these new vegetables himself; and Antony John, an organic farmer and co-owner of the farm Soiled Reputation in Sebringville, Ont.
Migrants, communities brace for end of Title 42 at U.S.-Mexico border
The pandemic-era policy Title 42 allows border patrol to expel migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border immediately after they cross, without asylum hearings. As the policy expires, authorities, migrants and communities along the border are braced for what comes next. Matt Galloway talks to The Current’s Liz Hoath, who has been reporting in Guatemala this week; El Paso, Texas, pastor Timothy Perea, whose church has been helping migrants who reach his community; and Michelle Hackman, who covers U.S. im
Vancouver Opera singer hits her final note after 50 years on the stage
We talk to Bette Cosar, who is retiring after a 50-year career with the Vancouver Opera.
Closing the research gap with heart disease in women
Heart disease remains the global leading cause of death for both men and women, but women have long been underrepresented in cardiovascular disease research. We talk to Dr. Susanna Mak, who is aiming to help close that research gap with a study at Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital; and Dr. Véronique Roger, a cardiologist and senior investigator with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Celebrities lining up to bid for Ottawa Senators
Celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Ryan Reynolds and The Weeknd have been linked to bids to buy the Ottawa Senators. We discuss what that means for the team and the game of hockey, with Globe and Mail business reporter Andrew Willis.
Cree journalist Connie Walker wins Pulitzer and Peabody in same week
Cree journalist Connie Walker won both a Pulitzer Prize and a Peabody Award for her podcast Stolen: Surviving St Michael's this week. It’s a story of the residential school her father was forced to attend. She tells us about the importance of telling Indigenous stories.
This Alberta man lost his house to wildfires. He came back to fight the blaze
Wildfires continue to ravage Alberta. We talk to Adam Norris, who lost his home in Drayton Valley, Alta., but returned to help put out the remaining fires.
Canada-China tensions spark economic concerns
Tensions are escalating between Canada and China, posing diplomatic and economic risks. Matt Galloway talks with Dennis Kwok, founder and chair of the China Strategic Risks Institute; and David Fung, a prominent business leader and vice-chair of the Canada China Business Council.
End of an era with closure of The Main, an iconic Montreal deli
The famed Montreal deli The Main has closed after 50 years. We discuss its legacy with Bill Brownstein, a columnist for the Montreal Gazette and the author of Schwartz's Hebrew Delicatessen: The Story.
Canadians in limbo after fleeing conflict in Sudan
Many Canadians who escaped fighting in Sudan are taking refuge in neighbouring countries, waiting for what comes next. Matt Galloway talks to the CBC’s David Common, who was in Kenya last week; and Pierre Honnorat, the World Food Program’s country director in Chad.
How the polio epidemic lead to the creation of the modern ICU
The polio epidemic in the last century led to the invention of new technology — including ventilators — that would not just save lives, but revolutionize modern medical care. Critical care physician Dr. Hannah Wunsch tells the story in her new book, The Autumn Ghost: How the Battle Against A Polio Epidemic Revolutionized Modern Medical Care.
Are younger Canadians considering retirement costs? Some say they can’t afford not to
A new report calls for a publicly funded insurance system for long-term care. Canadians would pay into the system during their working lives, and access that safety net in retirement. We talk to Shannon Lee Simmons, a certified financial planner and the founder of the New School of Finance; Dr. Samir Sinha, one of the authors of the study and director of geriatrics at Sinai Health and the University Health Network in Toronto; and Réjean Hébert, a professor in the School of Public Health at the U
A Nova Scotia man’s tissue donation was declined because he was gay. His family wants change
After Nova Scotia man Liam Dee died from a rare cancer in November, he was declined as a tissue donor because he was gay. We talk to Liam’s mother Cindy Gates-Dee and his husband Jacob MacDonald, who want a change in policies that reject gay men as organ and tissue donors; and Murdoch Leeies, an organ donor specialist in Winnipeg.
Thousands evacuated as wildfires roar across Alberta
Wildfires have displaced almost 30,000 people in Alberta, and it’s unclear when they’ll be able to return home. Matt Galloway talks to Rebekah Batterink and Aleasha Bourque, who were evacuated from their homes in Drayton Valley, Alta.; and Jen Beverly, a former firefighter and team leader of the wildfire analytics research team at the University of Alberta in Edmonton.
Why '80s star Andrew McCarthy walked 800km across Spain with his 19-year-old son
'80s movie star Andrew McCarthy wanted to spend some time with his 19-year-old son Sam, so the pair walked 800 kilometres along Spain's Camino de Santiago. McCarthy talks to us about fatherhood, fame and how walking can help solve some of life's biggest problems.
Tracking and identifying ticks
Researchers are tracking and identifying ticks in Canada because of concerns that climate change is allowing the disease-carrying parasites to spread further north. We talk to Robert Colautti, an associate professor in the department of biology at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ont., and a member of the Canadian Lyme Disease Research Network; and Jade Savage, a professor in the department of biological sciences at Bishop’s University in Sherbrooke, Que., who runs a tick-tracking website and app
Liberica is a climate-resistant coffee bean — but how does it taste?
Climate change is threatening arabica and robusta, the two varieties of beans that make up the majority of coffee sales. But researchers suggest a more resilient but less popular bean, liberica, could offer a solution for farmers and coffee lovers alike. We discuss the difference with Matt Reynolds, a senior writer for Wired; and Jeremy LeClair, the owner of LeClair Organics, a coffee roasting company in Saskatoon.
National affairs panel on Alberta’s election
Alberta’s provincial election campaign officially kicked off this week. Matt Galloway discusses what’s at stake with Elise Von Scheel, provincial affairs reporter for CBC Calgary; Carrie Tait, the Calgary reporter for the Globe and Mail; and Josh Aldrich, business reporter for the Calgary Herald.
International crackdown on Italy’s 'Ndrangheta crime group
A police crackdown on the notorious Italian mafia organization 'Ndrangheta has led to more than 100 arrests this week, related to drug offences, money laundering, bribery and violence. We talk to Antonio Nicaso, the author of numerous books about organized crime.
World's biggest cumulative logjam mapped in Canada’s North
A recent study says the Mackenzie River Delta in the N.W.T. is home to the world's biggest known cumulative logjam — and it stores a huge amount of carbon that could be released as temperatures rise. We talk to Alicia Sendrowski, lead author on the study.
Conservative MP Michael Chong allegedly targetted by Chinese diplomat
Allegations emerged this week that Conservative MP Michael Chong and his family were targetted by a Chinese diplomat living in Canada, prompting questions about when the prime minister knew about the allegations, and what should happen now. Matt Galloway talks to Gloria Fung, co-ordinator of Canadian Coalition for a Foreign Influence Registry, and the president of the non-profit Canada-Hong Kong Link; and Dick Fadden, former director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.
Food writer Ruth Reichl on the winners and losers in our food system
Acclaimed food writer and restaurant critic Ruth Reichl tells us about her new documentary, Food and Country, which explores the food system and the pandemic’s impact on independent producers and restaurants.
Why are northern lights being reported as far south as New Mexico?
This spring the northern lights have been reported as far south as New Mexico. We discuss what’s behind the aurora eruption with photographer and storm chaser Matt Melnyk; and Kathyrn McWilliams, a professor of physics and engineering physics at the University of Saskatchewan.
Coroners question excited delirium as cause of police-related deaths
Excited delirium is a medical condition sometimes cited as a cause of death during police interactions, but coroners are starting to question it as an explanation for these sudden deaths. Matt Galloway talks to Melissa Gray, whose brother Myles Gray died after a violent encounter with Vancouver police in 2015; Dr. Alfredo Walker, a forensic pathologist and coroner for eastern Ontario; and Dr. Michael Freeman, an associate professor of forensic medicine and epidemiology at Maastricht University i
Arctic research stalled by the war in Ukraine
The invasion of Ukraine has jeopardized scientific research in Russia’s Arctic territory. We talk to Chris Burn, president of the International Permafrost Association; and former U.S. diplomat Evan Bloom, a senior fellow with the Wilson Center, a Washington-based think tank.
Seniors use synchronized swimming to turn back the clock in new documentary Unsyncable
A new documentary, Unsyncable, dives into the world of synchronized swimming and the athletes who compete well into their senior years. We talk to the documentary’s director Megan Wennberg; world champion Sue Baross Nesbitt; and Ellen Scott, a masters' level synchro swimmer from Kitchener, Ont.
Remembering Gordon Lightfoot, Canadian folk music icon
Canadian folk music legend Gordon Lightfoot has died, aged 84. We remember the man and the musical icon, with Blue Rodeo frontman Jim Cuddy; and Lightfoot’s friend and biographer Nicholas Jennings.
2 Canadians killed fighting on Ukraine’s frontlines
Two Canadian men, Kyle Porter and Cole Zelenco, have been killed in the fight for the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Matt Galloway talks to Paul Hughes, a Canadian humanitarian worker who is helping to transport Porter’s remains; Walter Wood, a retired Canadian Armed Forces officer who spent time fighting in Ukraine last year; and Michael Bociurkiw, a global affairs analyst based in Odesa, Ukraine.
Inuk lawyer and activist Aaju Peter on fighting for Inuit rights, and living for the son she lost
The Inuk lawyer and activist Aaju Peter has spent her life fighting for Inuit rights, from protecting languages to defending the seal hunt. Her work is now the subject of the documentary Twice Colonized.
How humour helped comedian Gavin Crawford cope with his mother’s Alzheimer’s
Comedian and CBC host Gavin Crawford lost his mother Donna to Alzheimer’s — and learned that coping with the disease sometimes meant finding the funny moments. He tells their story in his new CBC podcast Let’s Not Be Kidding; which also features actor and comedian Aurora Browne, who cared for her father during his dementia.
Tentative deal means strike over for most public servants
We talk to Lori Turnbull, director of Dalhousie University's School of Public Administration, about the tentative deal between the federal government and the Public Service Alliance of Canada.
The Current Introduces: Let’s Not Be Kidding with Gavin Crawford
If laughter really was the best medicine, Gavin Crawford would have cured his mother of Alzheimer’s disease. As a son, his mother’s dementia has been devastating. As a comedian though… it’s been sort of funny. Honestly, how do you respond when your mom confuses you with her teenage crush and wants you to take her to the high-school dance? Well, you laugh. Because it’s the only thing you can do. In this seven-part series, Gavin tells the story of losing his mother — his best friend and the inspir
Sudan’s future hangs in balance as people flee continuing violence
Violence has resumed in Sudan, and rival factions blaming each other for violating a ceasefire agreement. Guest host Robyn Bresnahan talks to Safia Mustafa, who fled with her mother and grandmother on one of Canada's evacuation flights; Elsadig Elnour, the Sudan country director for the aid group Islamic Relief; and Sami Hamdi, director of the global risk and intelligence organization International Interest.
Fit for a King? Coronation quiche provokes mixed reaction in U.K.
A quiche recipe has been announced as the signature dish for the coronation of King Charles III, provoking a mixed reaction in the U.K. We talk to Rachel Rich, a food historian at Leeds Beckett University in the U.K., who specializes in the history of royal dining in Georgian England.
Athletes call for inquiry into abuse in amateur sports
Amateur athletes in Canada are calling for a national inquiry into abuse in sports. Matt Galloway speaks with former national soccer player Ciara McCormack and former fencer Emily Mason about their experiences. We also hear from former federal minister of sport, Kirsty Duncan, about what she wants to see happen.
Not enough has changed since Lac Megantic disaster, says documentarian
Philippe Falardeau says not enough has changed in the wake of the Lac-Megantic train explosion in 2013 that killed 47 people. We hear from Falardeau about his documentary series Lac-Megantic: This Is Not An Accident, and Isabelle Boulanger, who lost her son in the disaster.
The move away from screens in cars and back to buttons and knobs
While many cars come equipped with screens, there’s a push to bring back buttons and knobs. We hear from Paris Marx, a tech writer and author of Road to Nowhere: What Silicon Valley Gets Wrong about the Future of Transportation, and John Neff, Editor-at-large at Motor One.
Mental health help needed for girls kidnapped by Boko Haram
The struggle for abducted Nigerian women and girls kidnapped by terrorist group Boko Haram doesn’t end when they escape. Canadian journalist Mellissa Fung, who was kidnapped by armed men in Afghanistan in 2008, connected with those girls for her new book. We hear from Fung, as well as Dr. Fatima Akilu, who is working to improve mental health care in Nigeria.
Ontario eliminates post-secondary education requirement for police recruits
In an effort to boost lagging police recruitment, the Ontario government is eliminating the requirement for applicants to have a post-secondary education. Matt Galloway speaks with Jeff McGuire, executive director of Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, and Julius Haag, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Toronto.
How a 500 kilometre dogsled race keeps tradition and history alive
Musician Terry Uyarak just finished the Nunavut Quest, a dogsled race covering 500 kilometres from Igloolik to Arctic Bay. He says the nine-day journey helps keep the traditional trade routes and history of his ancestors alive. He talks to Matt Galloway about the race and its importance.
People going on a space vacation will need space sex ed, says scientist
Scientists say now is the time to talk about space sex. Amid a push for space tourism, David Cullen says that, eventually, someone is going to do it in space. Matt Galloway speaks with Cullen, a professor of Astrobiology and Space Biotechnology at Cranfield University, about the implications of sex in space.
Refugees offered Canadian jobs as health-care workers still waiting in Kenyan camp
More than 100 refugees have been offered jobs as continuing care assistants in Nova Scotia under a new federal program. But, two years since being accepted into the program, some of those refugees are still waiting in Kenya. CBC senior reporter Kayla Hounsell brings Matt Galloway the story; and Bahati Maganjo, one of the first refugees to come to Canada from Kenya through the program, tells us her journey.
Canadian women’s shelters brace for end of emergency pandemic funding
During the pandemic, women’s shelters in Canada received millions of dollars in emergency funding, but that money is set to end in September. We discuss what it will take to keep the lights on in these shelters, with Dawn Ferris, executive director of Cumberland County Transition House Association in Amherst, N.S.; and Danica Hoffart, executive director at the Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter in Red Deer, Alberta.
Remembering singer and activist Harry Belafonte
Popular performer and activist Harry Belafonte died at the age of 96 on Tuesday. We hear about his impact from Yoruba Richen, director of a documentary about Belafonte hosting The Tonight Show for a week in 1968; and Cuban-Canadian musician Alex Cuba.
Removing unhealthy messaging in children’s advertising
Cartoon characters and flashing graphics are key components used to advertise junk food to children, but Health Canada wants that to change. We discuss whether restricting junk food ads targeting children will actually help in the fight against obesity, with Dr. Tom Warshawski, a pediatrician and chair of the Childhood Obesity Foundation.
Duncan McCue reflects on the role of journalism in reconciliation
Duncan McCue has spent his career making sure the stories of Indigenous people in Canada are told with the community's voices front and centre. This week, McCue will be leaving the public broadcaster to help train the next generation of Indigenous journalists. He reflects on lessons learned and the role of journalism in reconciliation.
How a revamped passenger bill of rights puts airlines on the hook for service disruptions
After a surge in customer complaints about flight delays and cancellations, the federal government has revamped the passenger bill of rights. We hear from Sylvie De Bellefeuille, a lawyer with Options Consommateur in Montreal who specializes in consumer rights.
How social media can educate people about good quality clothing
Quantity has overtaken quality with some fast fashion mainstays, but there's a new generation of influencers pushing shoppers to spend their money wisely and look for quality. We hear from Andrea Cheong, a UK-based content creator and author of the forthcoming book Why Don’t I Have Anything to Wear?; and Kate Bauer, a Toronto-based fashion influencer.
The scramble to get Canadians out of Sudan
After more than a week of fighting, a 72-hour ceasefire is in effect in Sudan. At least 400 people have been killed in the conflict, and thousands more are injured. Canada has removed its diplomats from the country, but more than 1,400 Canadians have registered as being there. Matt Galloway speaks with Saydah Mustafa, a Sudanese-Canadian trying to flee; Hisham Mohamed, who was in Sudan visiting family when fighting erupted and is now in Egypt; and former diplomat Nicholas Coghlan, who oversaw an
Why Canadians are captivated by heist stories
Canada was captivated by news of a gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport. A container with $20 million in gold and other valuables was off-loaded from a plane and just vanished. Geoff Siskind is the executive producer of True North Heists, a podcast about capers on Canadian soil. He tells us why people are so taken by heist stories.
A record heatwave hits India and other parts of Asia
India and other parts of Asia are experiencing one of the worst April heatwaves in the continent’s history. We hear from Pranami Garg, who lives in the Indian state of Maharashtra and recently suffered from heat exhaustion; and Ronita Bardhan, co-author of a new study that suggests we don't know the full extent of damage caused by extreme heat waves in India.
Volkswagen plans to build North America’s first electric battery plant in Ontario
Volkswagen announced plans to build an electric-vehicle battery plant in St. Thomas, Ont. — the first electric battery plant in North America. It’s backed by $13 billion in subsidies over the next decade by the federal government, and Volkswagen said it will invest $7 billion. Matt Galloway speaks with Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association; and Ekta Bibra, a senior policy advisor focused on clean transportation with Clean Energy Canada.
San Diego Zoo’s rat ambassador aims to give the rodents a rebrand
The San Diego Zoo’s rat ambassador is hoping to give the rodent a rebrand. We hear about the rats’ serious skills from Cari Inserra, the lead wildlife care specialist at the San Diego Zoo
Vaccine could be a game-changer in the fight against malaria
Ghana is the first country in the world to approve the R21/Matrix-M from Oxford University, which could be a game-changer in the fight against malaria. Matt Galloway speaks with Adrian Hill, who led the design and clinical development of the vaccine; and Dr. Fred Aboagye-Antwi, a medical entomologist and parasitologist who works with the NGO Target Malaria.
Our national affairs panel discusses PSAC strike, unprocessed passports, and Trudeau's leaked comments
Our national affairs panel gathers to discuss unprocessed passports, the PSAC strike and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leaked comments about NATO. We hear from Rosemary Barton, CBC's Chief Political Correspondent; Catherine Levesque, a parliamentary reporter for the National Post; and Steven Chase, a senior parliamentary reporter for the Globe & Mail.
New documentary looks at the fearless writing of Judy Blume
Generations of kids have grown up reading the writing of Judy Blume, who wrote about puberty and bullying in a way that felt like she was speaking directly to the reader. We hear from Davina Pardo and Leah Wolchok, the directors of a new documentary about Blume, how those books changed lives, and why they’re still being banned today.
Advocates push to ban gambling ads featuring athletes
Sports betting ads featuring celebrities and athletes such as Connor McDavid and Wayne Gretzky are everywhere you look. But there are calls to ban them over concerns that they're drawing in too many young people. We hear from Brian Masse, the NDP MP for Windsor West in Ontario. His federal sports betting bill paved the way for legal online gambling in Canada. We also hear from Paul Burns, the president and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, and lecturer Raffaello Rossi, who studied how youn
PSAC strikers fight to work from home
Tens of thousands of Public Service Alliance of Canada workers are striking across Canada over wages and a better work-life balance. That includes wanting more flexible remote working arrangements. Matt Galloway speaks with Alex Silas, the PSAC regional executive vice-president for the National Capital Region; Michael Wernick, the University of Ottawa’s Jarislowsky Chair in public sector management; and Alexandra Samuel, co-author of Remote, Inc.: How to Thrive at Work . . . Wherever You Are.
Canadian celebrity chef Ricardo Larrivée bids adieu to TV
After 21 seasons and nearly 3,000 episodes, Ricardo Larrivée is leaving the TV kitchen. The Canadian chef tells us about getting out of the kitchen and the good that can come from being around the table with friends and family.
Canadian farming is facing a crisis — could immigration be the answer?
Farming is facing a crisis in Canada. Around 40 per cent of Canadian farmers are set to retire next decade, and many don’t have a succession plan. We discuss if immigration is the awnser with Evan Fraser, the director of the Arrell Food Institute and co-author of a new report about the future of farming in Canada; Allan Millican, co-owner of Covered Bridge Haskap Orchards in Head of Millstream, N.B.; and Marcel Smellink, who came to Canada from the Netherlands in 1980s and nows runs a farm in Ir
Reframing the issue of population anxiety
A new UN report is urging governments not to focus on fertility numbers when dealing with population anxiety, but instead to reframe the issue entirely and focus on women's rights and choices. We hear more from Dr. Natalia Kanem, the executive director of the United Nations Population Fund.
Thousands of PSAC members go on strike
One hundred and fifty thousand public servants are going on strike. The strike could impact a range of services, from income tax processing to passport and immigration files. Matt Galloway speaks with Catherine Cullen, host of CBC Radio's The House; Jasmin Guénette, vice-president of national affairs for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business; and Tamara Mosher-Kuczer, founder and senior immigration lawyer with Lighthouse Immigration Law.
Releasing millions of modified mosquitos to fight dengue fever
A Brazilian mosquito factory is planning to release 5 billion modified mosquitos a year to help combat dengue fever. We hear more from Scott O’Neill, a microbiologist at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, and CEO of the World Mosquito Program.
Fears of a civil war spread in Sudan
Sudan’s capital Khartoum erupted in violence this weekend. We discuss spreading fears of a civil war with Dr. Alaaeldin Nogoud, a surgeon who lives and works in Khartoum; and Khalid Medani, the chair of African studies and an associate professor of political science at McGill.
How early detection of Parkinson's could improve treatment
Michael J. Fox has been one of the most prominent people with Parkinson’s Disease, and his foundation has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into research. Research backed by his investment has been released — and it could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Ronald Postuma, a neurologist with the Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital at McGill University, tells us more.
New book profiles wrongful convictions in Canada
Kent Roach, a law professor at the University of Toronto, profiles dozens of cases of wrongful conviction in his new book, Wrongfully Convicted: Guilty Pleas, Imagined Crimes, and What Canada Must Do to Safeguard Justice. He talks about the steps being taken by the Canadian government to address miscarriages of justice. We also hear from Maria Shepherd, who was wrongfully convicted after the death of her stepdaughter in 1992, and acquitted in 2016.
Rethinking banks' investments in fossil fuels
This year’s Banking on Climate Chaos report shows RBC has overtaken JP Morgan Chase as the world’s largest investor in fossil fuels. The report is produced by a coalition of environmental groups, and several Canadian banks are also in the top 20. But environmentalists warn that these investments are contributing to climate disasters, and some investors are taking action. Matt Galloway speaks with Matt Price, executive director of the shareholder advocacy group Investors for Paris Compliance; and
Why some fishermen are refusing to fish for crab
Crab was king in Newfoundland and Labrador last year, but things have taken a turn this season. The Association of Seafood Producers has set the price of snow crab at $2.20 per pound — the lowest price in almost a decade. In response, some crabbers are refusing to set their pots. Matt Galloway speaks with Keith Boland, a skipper and snowcrab fisherman; and Alison Coffin, who teaches economics at Memorial University in St. John's.
American librarians fight calls to defund public libraries
a movement in the United States that started with book bans has shifted to a call to defund public libraries. We discuss how librarians are fighting back with Katie Hill Earnhart, the library director of The Cape Giradeau Public Library in the state of Missouri; Mary Grahame, youth services librarian at Ferndale Area district Library, just north of Detroit; and Jonathan Friedman, the director of free expression and education programs for PEN America.
Cosmologist Thomas Hertog on Stephen Hawking and the origins of the universe
osCmologist Thomas Gertog was Stephen Hawking’s closest collaborator for years. That’s why when Hawking realized the theory at the heart of his bestseller A Brief History of Time was wrong, he turned to Hertog to correct him. We hear from Hertog about rethinking the origins of the universe.
How automatic tax filing could put money in the pockets of low-income Canadians
Many low-income Canadians don’t file taxes and miss out on refunds they’re entitled to. But now, a pilot program would automatically file those taxes — and could put cash in their pockets. We talk to Rebekah Smylie, the manager of financial empowerment at West Neighbourhood House, a non-profit in Toronto; and Jennifer Robson, an associate professor at Carleton University in Ottawa, who has been studying automatic tax filing.
National affairs panel: Election interference, looming strikes, and a war of words with western premiers
The prime minister's chief of staff, Katie Telford, will testify before a parliamentary committee Friday about the extent of Chinese interference in Canadian elections. Matt Galloway discusses what to expect, with our national affairs panel: Catherine Cullen, host of CBC Radio's The House; Kelly Cryderman, a political reporter for the Globe and Mail; and Ryan Tumilty, a parliamentary reporter for the National Post.
In a new book, Muslim women discuss sex, autonomy and cultural norms
Sheima Benembarek’s new book, Halal Sex: The Intimate Lives of Muslim Women in North America, features the stories of six people pushing against cultural norms around sexuality and autonomy. We talk to Benembarek and Eman El-Husseini, one of the women featured in the book.
Journalist Kara Swisher on big tech's big personalities — and even bigger problems
Journalist Kara Swisher has been covering the tech industry since the earliest days of the internet. She joins us to discuss Twitter under Elon Musk, the rise of artificial intelligence, and weighing the good and bad of the internet.
Why laughing about climate change might be a good thing
Some comedians and scientists are using laughs to raise the alarm about climate change. We talk to Ben Carey, founder and the creative director of the Utopia Bureau, which describes itself as a "climate communications lab”; and Aaron Sachs, author of Stay Cool: Why Dark Comedy Matters in the Fight Against Climate Change.
Fight over access to abortion pill in U.S.
A U.S. legal fight over the abortion drug mifepristone is prompting concern that the courts could set a precedent around access to other drugs. Matt Galloway talks to Elizabeth Janiak, an assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School; and Alice Ollstein, a health care reporter on Capitol Hill for Politico.
‘Warmer’ transplant lungs stay viable longer, say scientists
Transplant scientists say storing donated lungs at a higher temperature keeps them viable for longer and could boost the number of organ transplants. We talk to Rick Collins, who received a transplant of “warmer” lungs in 2021; and Dr. Shaf Keshavjee, a thoracic surgeon at Toronto’s University Health Network, whose team is using this method.
How climate change could be boosting baseball’s home runs
A new study has found climate change could be responsible for an increase in home runs in baseball. Justin Mankin, a senior author of the study, tells us more.
Parents frustrated at lack of daycare spots, despite federal push for $10-a-day child care
The federal government’s $10-a-day child care plan is rolling out across the country, but many parents are frustrated that there simply aren’t enough daycare spots available — at any price. Matt Galloway talks to Hannah Johnson and Sheree Rieger, two mothers who can’t find child care in Saskatchewan; and Susan Prentice, the Duff Roblin Professor of Government at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, who specializes in child care policy.
King Charles III supports research into monarchy’s ties to slavery
King Charles III has said he will support new research into the British monarchy's historical connections with slavery. We talk to Trevor Burnard, director of the Wilberforce Institute for the Study of Slavery and Emancipation at the University of Hull; and Niambi Hall-Campbell Dean, chair of the Bahamas National Reparations Committee.
Reviving the endangered art of handwriting
In an era of texting, voice memos and email, some people are pushing to revive good penmanship and the handwritten word. We talk to Hetty Roessingh, professor emeritus at the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary.
Highly sensitive U.S. intelligence documents leaked online
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating a major leak of top secret intelligence, including documents about the war in Ukraine, Russian intelligence and information about Canada. We talk to Stephanie Carvin, an associate professor at Ottawa’s Carleton University and a former national security analyst.
They say they shared an abusive partner. Now, they warn others about their ex
A group of women who say they endured an abusive relationship with the same man have banded together to warn others. We hear their story in the documentary Ex-Wives Club. We also discuss how the system can fail to protect women — and what needs to change — with Pamela Cross, a lawyer and advocate for women's issues; and Marci Ien, the federal minister for women and gender equality and youth.
Calls for mandatory screening for senior drivers
Damien Tomsett was hit by a car while crossing at a crosswalk in Halifax a few weeks ago. The driver of that vehicle was 89 years old — and his case has renewed a debate about whether more testing and regulations of senior drivers would improve safety on the road. Matt Galloway hears from Dr. Shawn Marshall, the division head of physician medicine and rehabilitation with the Ottawa Hospital, who’s studied the driving abilities of seniors; and Bill VanGorder, the chief operating officer and chief
New book explores the mysteries of our minds
With his new book, Psych: The Story of the Human Mind, Canadian psychologist Paul Bloom probes the difference between the brain and the mind, the mystery of consciousness, and whether artificial intelligence will ever match human thought. We revisit our conversation with him from last month.
Tackling the massive belt of sargassum drifting through the ocean
A record-size mass of sargassum is coming ashore in parts of the Caribbean, Mexico and Florida. We discuss why it’s a problem and what efforts are underway to deal with it, with Brian Lapointe, a research professor at Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute; and Ajit Subramaniam, a biological oceanographer at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
BONUS | Director Daniel Roher just won an Oscar. The subject of his film, Alexei Navalny, remains in prison
Canadian director Daniel Roher talks to Matt Galloway about winning an Oscar for his documentary Navalny, and the man at the heart of the film: imprisoned Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. This podcast is a longer version of the conversation that aired on The Current this week.
What life is like for ‘ceasefire babies’ in Northern Ireland, 25 years after the Good Friday Agreement
25 years after the Good Friday Agreement, some say “ceasefire babies” have inherited a fragile place with not much prosperity. We discuss what life is like for young people in Northern Ireland, with Belfast city councillor Séamas de Faoite and lawyer Sarah Creighton, two members of the ceasefire generation; and Siobhan McAlister, a researcher at Queen’s University Belfast, who’s researched the impacts of conflict legacy on children and young people in Northern Ireland and the border regions of I
Judicial reform plan divides Israel
We hear from The World At Six host Susan Bonner in Israel, where weeks of mass protests have led to a pause on proposed reforms that would allow parliament to overturn decisions made by the Supreme Court.
How bees are helping solve conflict between elephants and farmers in Africa
Elephants in Africa can do enormous damage to farmers’ fields, but researchers are exploring whether bees could keep the enormous animals at bay and reduce elephant-human conflict. We talk to Dr. Lucy King, head of the human-elephant co-existence program with Save the Elephants; and Purity Milgo, a research officer with that organization.
Encampment cleared in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside
Police have cleared a homeless encampment in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside after city officials deemed it unsafe. Advocates say the removal, and others like it, will only further isolate vulnerable people. We talk to Nicole Mucci, communications manager at Union Gospel Mission, which provides food and shelter in the area.
Canadian director Daniel Roher on winning an Oscar, and the plight of Alexei Navalny
Last month, Canadian director Daniel Roher won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, for his film Navalny. He talks to Matt Galloway about using his documentary to speak out against authoritarianism — and the ongoing imprisonment of its subject, anti-Putin critic Alexei Navalny.
Trump charges are a first in the U.S. How have presidential trials played out elsewhere?
Donald Trump has become the first sitting or former U.S. president to face criminal charges, but history shows that leaders have faced trial in other established democracies without shaking trust in those institutions. Matt Galloway talks to Azi Paybarah, a breaking politics reporter with the Washington Post; and Jay Krehbiel, an associate professor of political science at Western Virginia University.
Canadian swimmers are making waves and breaking records
Canadian swimmers have been breaking records in the pool, and observers say it's the result of a program implemented a decade ago. We talk to former Olympic swimmer Byron MacDonald, currently the head coach of the University of Toronto’s Varsity Blues swimming program.
Experts are concerned about the rapid rise of AI. What’s at stake?
The rapid development of artificial intelligence has prompted an open letter calling for a six-month pause to allow safety protocols to be established and adopted. We discuss the technology’s potential and pitfalls, with Nick Frosst, co-founder of the AI company Cohere; Sinead Bovell, founder of the tech education company WAYE, who sits on the United Nations ITU Generation Connect Visionaries Board; and Neil Sahota, an IBM Master Inventor and the UN artificial intelligence advisor.
Tackling pain in children and adolescents
Researchers published the first Canadian standard for managing pain in children and adolescents. One of those researchers, clinical psychologist Katie Birnie, tells us why pediatric pain is often overlooked — and what needs to be done about that.
How our ‘subjective age’ affects our well-being, and can help rethink myths about aging
People can sometimes feel older or younger than they actually are — and researchers are exploring what that can mean for their quality of life. We talk to Steven Mock, an associate professor in the department of recreation and leisure studies at the University of Waterloo in Ontario; and Richard Eibach, an associate professor in the department of psychology, also at the University of Waterloo.
‘Still sinking in’: Jeremy Hansen announced as first Canadian to orbit the moon
Canadian Jeremy Hansen has been named as one of four astronauts on the crew of Artemis II, a mission that will orbit the moon. In doing so, Hansen will become the first Canadian to orbit the moon. Hansen tells us why he thinks all Canadians should be proud of his achievement; and we learn more about moon exploration with Gordon Osinski, a professor at Western University's Institute for Earth and Space Exploration and the scientific lead for Canada's lunar rover project.
Deaths in St. Lawrence River highlight problem of human smuggling
Eight people, including two small children, died in the St. Lawrence River near the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne last week, while trying to cross from Canada into the U.S. Matt Galloway talks to Marjorie Skidders, editor of the Indian Time Newspaper in Akwesasne; and François Crépeau, a professor at McGill University's Faculty of Law, who served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants from 2011 to 2017.
Vatican repudiates Doctrine of Discovery
The Vatican recently announced the repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery, which was instrumental in the conquering of Indigenous land during the colonization of North America. Matt Galloway talks to Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national representational organization for Inuit in Canada; and lawyer Bruce McIvor, author of Standoff: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People and How to Fix It.
Critters face off in March Mammal Madness
If an emperor penguin took on a wolverine, who would win? A mongoose versus a java mouse-deer? You might find out in March Mammal Madness, an imagined tournament that pits critters against each other in the hopes of teaching humans more about the natural world. Katie Hinde, a biological anthropologist at Arizona State University, tells us more.
Mental health crisis brewing after earthquakes in Turkey and Syria
Two months after deadly earthquakes in Syria and Turkey, the United Nations is warning of a looming mental health crisis in the regions. We talk to Mehmet Ali Akil, the child protection co-ordinator with Save The Children, Turkey; and Nebras Haj Hamdan, the Syria area co-ordinator with the Ireland-based NGO Goal Global.
One daughter's push to help her mother through music
Marjorie Taft has dementia and sometimes struggles to stay engaged with the world around her. Her daughter, Beverly Taft, works hard to keep her participating in life. This includes taking Marjorie to her weekly piano performances with Recollectiv, a Toronto group for musicians with memory challenges. We hear their story in Alisa Siegel’s documentary, The Person She’s Always Been.
N.S. Mass Casualty Commision report calls for sweeping reform to the RCMP
The Mass Casualty Commission’s report calls for sweeping reform to the RCMP, and says intimate partner violence needs to be treated as a public health emergency in Canada. We hear from Michael MacDonald, chair of the Nova Scotia Mass Casualty Commission; and Dennis Daley, assistant commissioner and commanding officer for the Nova Scotia RCMP.
Using sound recordings to better protect North Atlantic right whales
North Atlantic right whales are one of the most endangered mammals on the planet, and many of them spend their time off the coast of the Maritimes or in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Delphine Durette-Morin, an assistant scientist with the Canadian Whale Institute, tells us how she’s using sound recordings of the whales to better protect the species.
‘There is this opportunity to change it for the next person, so let’s take it’: Daughter of 2020 N.S. mass killings victim on Mass Casualty Commission report
For nearly three years, Nova Scotians have been waiting for answers surrounding the 2020 mass shootings in Portapique. On Thursday, they got some of them from a long-awaited public inquiry’s report. Matt Galloway speaks with Darcy Dobson, whose mother, Heather O’Brien, was killed that day; and Michael Scott, a lawyer representing Dobson and others who lost family members in the attacks.
Antique seal press unlocks a Nova Scotia tale of mobsters, rum running and tragedy
Novelist Ami McKay recently discovered a century-old seal press at an antique market — bringing to life a tale of mobsters, rum running and tragedy.
Facing Alzheimer's, this couple still finds time to dance, and seize joy in the moment
Children’s author Sheree Fitch and retired journalist Gilles Plante built their dream home to grow old together in River John, N.S. But in the years that followed, Plante was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The couple tell us how they’re coping, and why they’re determined to find joy every day.
People love this crocheted Maud Lewis sweater — but it's not for sale
When Grace Tompkins crocheted a Maud Lewis painting onto a sweater, she didn't expect it to go viral on social media, or to get a message from one of the famed painter's living relatives. She tells us about the sweater people went crazy for — and why it’s not for sale.
Finding healing and community in Portapique, N.S., 3 years after the mass shooting
The Mass Casualty Commission will publish its final report Thursday, after an inquiry into the 2020 mass shooting that left 22 people dead in Nova Scotia. We visit Portapique, N.S., where a new community hall is under construction; and Matt Galloway speaks with grief specialist Serena Lewis, about the long-term supports that the community might need.
The impact of reporting on a mass shooting
Ahead of the Mass Casualty Commission’s final report on the 2020 mass shooting, we talk to CBC journalist Angela McIvor, who has been covering the story for three years.
Will the federal budget really help struggling Canadians? We ask Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland
Matt Galloway talks to Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland about Tuesday’s federal budget, and looks at the fine detail with Tonda MacCharles, parliamentary reporter for the Toronto Star; and Nojoud Al Mallees, economics reporter for Canadian Press.
High rents driving Nova Scotians into homelessness
The Current comes to you from Nova Scotia this morning, where the cost of rent is driving people out of their homes. We hear from people experiencing homelessness — and those trying to help. Also, Matt Galloway speaks with Susan Leblanc, the NDP MLA for Dartmouth North.
Calls to ban Russia from the 2024 Paris Olympics
In light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the International Olympic Committee is facing increased pressure to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. We talk to Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych; retired Canadian Olympian Perdita Felicien; and David Wallechinsky, a historian and executive board member of the International Society of Olympic Historians.
Calls for greater access to life-saving treatment for stroke
An endovascular thrombectomy has proven to be an effective treatment for stroke patients. In some cases, they’ve allowed patients to walk out of the hospital mere days after being admitted in life-threatening conditions. Matt Galloway talks to Marleen Conacher, who was treated using EVT for a stroke in 2021; and discusses calls to make the procedure more widely available with stroke physician Dr. Michael Hill.
The rise and risk of ‘tranq dope'
The animal tranquillizer Xylazine is showing up in illicit street drugs, putting drug users’ lives at even greater risk. We discuss the rise of ‘tranq dope’ with Dayn Kent, co-ordinator of the consumption and treatment service at the Regent Park Community Health Centre; and Dr. Aamir Bharmal, medical director of the Public Health Response Division at the BC Centre for Disease Control.
Israel puts judicial reform on hold after widespread protests
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a pause on judicial reform after widespread protests. We talk to Washington Post reporter Steve Hendrix; Ronen Bergman, a Tel Aviv-based staff writer for The New York Times Magazine; and Michael Koplow, chief policy officer of the Israel Policy Forum, an NGO based in Washington.
Calls to end ‘race correction’ in health care
Common diagnostic health tests have long been interpreted differently for Black patients — a practice called "race correction," which has systematically denied access to timely and sometimes life-saving care. Matt Galloway talks to LLana James, co-chair of the Canada-US Coalition to End Race Correction in Healthcare; and Dr. Nav Persaud, the Canada Research Chair in Health Justice at St. Michael's Hospital in Unity Health Toronto.
A referendum to recognize Indigenous peoples in Australia’s constitution
Australia's constitution has never acknowledged its Indigenous people as the country's original inhabitants, but a referendum to change that could give Indigenous people a bigger say in the country's parliament and laws. We talk to Sana Nakata, a Torres Strait Islander and principal research fellow at James Cook University’s Indigenous Education and Research Centre.
Some NHL players object to Pride-themed events
Some NHL teams and players have refused to participate in events tied to LGBTQ representation and Pride, prompting questions about the league's commitment to inclusion. We talk to David Palumbo, a board member of the You Can Play Project.
Closing Roxham Road, and the impact on asylum seekers
Canada and the U.S. agreed to close the border at Roxham Road in Quebec, where more than 40,000 people crossed to claim asylum here last year. We talk to Frances Ravensbergen with Bridges Not Borders, a volunteer group that supports people who cross at Roxham Road; Mireille Paquet, Concordia University Research Chair on the Politics of Immigration; and John Manley, a former deputy prime minister.
Pablo Escobar’s escaped hippos are causing problems in Colombia
The drug kingpin Pablo Escobar smuggled four hippos into his compound in Colombia, but they escaped into the wild after he was killed. Their population has now ballooned to around 140, leaving authorities grappling with a very big invasive species. We hear more from Luke Taylor, a freelance journalist in Bogotá, Colombia; and Gina Paola Serna, a veterinarian who has been helping track and sterilize the animals.
The power and importance of friendship
A new Nature Of Things documentary looks at the science of friendship — in both humans and animals — and the role it plays in our mental and physical health. We talk to filmmaker Judith Pyke; and Beverley Fehr, a social psychologist at the University of Winnipeg.
Northern communities want a say in NORAD modernization
U.S. President Joe Biden’s visit to Ottawa is expected to include talks around modernizing NORAD, the U.S.-Canada aerospace defence organization. There are calls for northern communities to be part of any redevelopment and see tangible benefits from any new infrastructure. Matt Galloway talks to Andrea Charron, director of the Centre for Defence and Security Studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg; and Clint Davis, CEO of Nunasi, an Inuit-owned development corporation with headquarters
They're not Indigenous, but they're learning Indigenous languages
Junaid Khan is one of a growing number of non-Indigenous people in Canada learning Indigenous languages. Duncan McCue brings us Khan’s story in his documentary about the recent swell of interest in Indigenous languages in Canada.
Internet shutdown in Punjab, India, as police search for Sikh separatist leader Amritpal Singh
Millions of people in the Indian state of Punjab have had their mobile internet shut off by the government, as police search for Sikh separatist leader Amritpal Singh. Reuters India reporter Krishn Kaushik tells us more.
What to expect from Biden's first visit to Canada
U.S. President Joe Biden arrives in Canada Thursday to discuss cross-border trade, instability in Haiti, the war in Ukraine and allegations of Chinese election interference. Matt Galloway talks to Tonda MacCharles, senior reporter in the Toronto Star's Ottawa bureau; and Amanda Coletta, the Canada correspondent for the Washington Post.
Anti-gay laws in Uganda
Uganda’s parliament has passed anti-gay laws that include making it illegal to identify as gay or transgender. The laws carry penalties such as lengthy jail time or even a death sentence. We hear from human rights advocates and a member of the country’s LGBTQ community.
U.S. push for Canada to lead intervention in Haiti
When U.S. President Joe Biden visits Canada this week, he’s expected to urge Ottawa to lead an international intervention effort in Haiti, where criminal gangs control more than half of the country and a cholera outbreak is worsening. We talk to Louis-Henri Mars, director of the Haitian peacebuilding organization, Lakou Lapè; Renata Segura, deputy director for Latin America and the Caribbean with the International Crisis Group; and Tom Lawson, a former chief of the defence staff with the Canadia
Author Jenny Odell on how the clock rules our lives
In her new book Saving Time: Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock, author and artist Jenny Odell explores society’s relationship with time, how we measure it, and whether nature can give us a different way to appreciate the passing moments.
A search for safety in James Smith Cree Nation, six months after stabbing attacks
Six months after 11 people were killed in a stabbing attack in James Smith Cree Nation, the community in Saskatchewan is still figuring out how to keep itself safe. A new security patrol has been set up to deal with violence, but it’s unarmed, with no formal training or official authority. CBC reporter Olivia Stefanovich spent time there; she tells Matt Galloway what she’s heard about the First Nation’s search for safety.
Latest stark warning on climate change doesn’t have to be paralyzing: climate scientist
A new UN report has issued a “final warning” that the Earth will hit a critical threshold for global warming in the next decade. Canadian climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe discusses what needs to happen now and whether the world is likely to respond.
Old Montreal fire raises questions about short-term rentals
One person died and six others remain missing after a fire last week, in a Montreal building that housed several Airbnb units. Matt Galloway discusses calls for a closer look at short-term rentals in the city with CBC reporter Sarah Leavitt; and David Wachsmuth, an associate professor at McGill University and the Canada Research Chair in Urban Governance.
New podcast explores the human side of Canadian politics
A new podcast called Humans of the House offers a rare look at the people behind the politics in Ottawa, from how they entered public life to why they ultimately left. We talk to podcast host Sabreena Delhon, executive director of The Samara Centre for Democracy; Romeo Saganash, a former NDP MP and Cree lawyer; and Scott Brison, a former Progressive Conservative, then Liberal MP, and now vice-chair with BMO Wealth Management.
China and Russia meet against backdrop of Putin arrest warrant, war in Ukraine
China's President Xi Jinping visits Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss peace with Ukraine this week. Observers say this is the latest effort by Beijing to become a global power broker — at the expense of the United States. We talk to Bessma Momani, a professor of political science at the University of Waterloo; and Ava Shen, an expert on Chinese foreign policy with the Eurasia Group.
Concerns about the Colorado River’s low water levels
The Colorado River system provides critical drinking and irrigation supply for seven U.S. states — but water levels on the river have dropped in recent years. CBC News’ Susan Ormiston has been travelling along the river for the past week. She tells us more.
Revisiting the Iraq War, 20 years later
It’s been 20 years since the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. It was done on the promise of freedom, but the country is still mired in political violence and corruption two decades later. Matt Galloway speaks with Louisa Loveluck, the Washington Post's Baghdad bureau chief. He also discusses the impact the war had on Iraqis, with Ghaith Abdul-Ahad, an Iraqi journalist and author of the new book, A Stranger in Your Own City; and Nadje Al-Ali, the director of the Center for Middle East Studies at Brown
What sheep shearing during the pandemic taught author Peggy Orenstein
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and many people hunkered down at home, author Peggy Orenstein decided to embark on a more ambitious project: shearing sheep and making a sweater. She talks with us about that experience and her new book, Unraveling: What I Learned About Life While Shearing Sheep, Dyeing Wool, and Making the World's Ugliest Sweater.
International medical students ordered to return to Ukraine for exams
Many international medical students left Ukraine when Russia invaded, but they’re now being told to return for their final exam. We hear from a student who feels it’s not safe to return to a war zone; and Kostyantyn Rybachuk, who’s with the department of Ukraine's Ministry of Health, which oversees the exam.
Canadian libraries grapple with increase in violent incidents
Public libraries have seen an increase in violent incidents, with some installing metal detectors and security personnel. We discuss the balance of providing a public, yet safe, space for patrons and staff with three librarians: Paul Burry, director of the Prince George Public Library in B.C.; Pam Ryan, director of service, development and innovation at the Toronto Public Library; and Pilar Martinez, CEO of the Edmonton Public Library and the chair of the Canadian Urban Libraries Council’s safet
Texas lawsuit seeks to ban access to abortion pill
A judge in Texas is considering whether to overturn federal regulatory approval of Mifepristone, a commonly used abortion pill. New York Times health and science writer Pam Belluck tells us more.
How Credit Suisse reached a crisis point
Two U.S. banks collapsed in less than a week, while in Europe, Credit Suisse teetered on the brink of failure before Switzerland's central bank stepped in with a loan. Are there implications for Canada’s banking sector? Matt Galloway talks to Eric Reguly, European bureau chief for The Globe and Mail; and Kenneth Rogoff, a professor of economics at Harvard University and former chief economist of the International Monetary Fund.
Cyclone Freddy devastates Malawi
Cyclone Freddy has claimed hundreds of lives in Malawi, a country already dealing with a cholera outbreak. We talk to Felix Washon, working with the Malawi Red Cross Society in the country’s second largest city, Blantyre.
Catholic group using phone data to out gay priests
A conservative Catholic organization in the U.S. has spent millions on data from dating and hook-up apps, and used that data to track and publicly out gay priests. We talk to Michelle Boorstein, a religion reporter for the Washington Post; and discuss how your data could be harvested and used with Teresa Scassa, a professor and the Canada Research Chair in Information Law and Policy at the University of Ottawa.
Renowned Canadian architect Phyllis Lambert on how to build better cities
Renowned Canadian architect Phyllis Lambert has always been a passionate advocate for design that puts people first. She talks to Matt Galloway about how to build better cities, being engaged well into her 90s, and her new photography book Observation Is a Constant That Underlies All Approaches.
Sense of ‘protest and turmoil’ as strikes drag on in garbage-strewn Paris
Garbage is piling up in Paris as sanitation workers strike over government plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64. Matt Galloway talks to Ben Barnier, a senior correspondent with France Télévisions; and Elena Bassoli, a health economist at the Paris School of Economics.
Community left reeling after fatal truck attack in Amqui, Que.
Two people died and nine others were injured when a pickup truck ran into pedestrians in Amqui, Que., on Monday. We hear more from CBC Quebec reporter Émilie Warren.
Scientists map the entire brain of the fruit fly for first time
Researchers have mapped the brain of a fruit fly. It’s a scientific first that could help us understand our own brains in the future. Marta Zlatic, a neuroscientist who worked on the mapping, tells us more.
Millions pledged to tackle airline complaint backlog, but how can root problems be addressed?
The federal government has pledged $75.9 million to address the backlog of passenger complaints related to lost luggage and delayed or cancelled flights. Guest host Mark Kelley discusses how to address the root problems with Christine Waugh, who has filed three small court claims against WestJet; Tom Oommen, director general of the analysis and outreach branch of the Canadian Transportation Agency; and John Gradek, an aviation management professor at McGill University and a former Air Canada exe
Companies adopt 4-day work week after U.K. trial
After a recent U.K. trial of a four-day work week, over 90 per cent of the participating companies decided to stick to the 32-hour week. We talk to John Trougakos, an advisor at the Work Time Reduction Center of Excellence; and Amanda Watson, a lecturer specializing in labour and capitalism at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C.
Orca spotted caring for baby pilot whale, surprising experts
Off the coast of Iceland, an adult female orca was spotted with a baby pilot whale — likely not more than a month old. The unusual scenario has surprised experts; we hear why from Elizabeth Zwamborn, a PhD candidate at Dalhousie University in Halifax.
Environmental impact of the beauty industry’s demand for collagen
Collagen is getting celebrity endorsements as a hair and skincare product — but the billion-dollar industry has been linked to deforestation in the Amazon, and the large-scale slaughter of donkeys and other livestock in Africa. We talk to Andrew Wasley, food and agriculture reporter for the Bureau of Investigative Journalism; Sian Edwards, campaigns manager at The Donkey Sanctuary in the U.K.; and Michael White, a pharmacist and distinguished professor at the University of Connecticut School of
‘Kids aren’t content’: Concerns over ‘sharenting’ and children’s privacy online
Parents who overshare pictures and videos of their kids online are sometimes accused of “sharenting” — using cute or embarrassing moments to boost views, likes and sometimes income. But there are growing concerns about the impact on children’s privacy. We talk to Sarah Adams, who runs Mom.Uncharted, a TikTok account about the dangers of “sharenting”; Alana Kayfetz, a content creator and founder of Mom Halo, a network of millennial moms in Canada; and Leah Plunkett, author of Sharenthood: Why We
Nerve-wracking time for Toronto startup that banked with collapsed Silicon Valley Bank
The collapse of California-based Silicon Valley Bank has sent companies scrambling in the U.S. and Canada. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to Anya Klimbovskaia, co-founder of Toronto-based startup Diversio, which had deposits at Silicon Valley Bank; and Claire Brownell, a digital currencies reporter for The Logic.
Tackling rising syphilis cases across Canada
Syphilis infections are surging across Canada, including cases of babies born with congenital syphilis. We talk to Dr. Darrell Tan, an infectious disease specialist at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto; and Caroline Cameron, a professor in the department of biochemistry and microbiology at the University of Victoria in B.C.
New CBC podcast looks at Sam Bankman-Fried and the collapse of FTX
A new CBC podcast explores the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange, and the man at its centre: Sam Bankman-Fried. We talk to Jacob Silverman, host of The Naked Emperor.
What the Oscars tells us about Canada’s film industry
It was a big night at the Oscars for several Canadian stars, but most of the films they were involved with were actually American. We discuss the challenges facing the Canadian film industry with Sami Khan, whose documentary short St. Louis Superman was nominated for an Oscar in 2020.
Canadians turn to fee-charging private clinics to access health care
In a stretched health-care system, some Canadians are turning to private clinics that charge fees for virtual appointments. Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos says the clinics are at odds with Canada’s pledges on universal health care, but advocates say they ensure timely access for patients. Guest host Mark Kelley talks to Dr. Brett Belchetz, co-founder and CEO of Maple, which offers telephone and online visits; and André Picard, a health reporter and columnist with The Globe and Mail.
BONUS | A personal plea to expand MAID, and concern over proposed changes
The federal government is considering expansions to medical assistance in dying, which could include advanced consent, and access for those diagnosed with mental illness. In this special podcast, Matt Galloway talks to Dr. Catherine Ferrier and Dr. Sonu Gaind, physicians who have concerns about the changes that might be coming; and Graeme Bayliss, who lives with clinical depression, and has been calling for the expansion of MAID for years.
Long COVID patients fear they’ll be forgotten as pandemic fades
Three years after the World Health Organization declared a global COVID-19 pandemic, some Canadians are still living under the shadow of long COVID. Matt Galloway talks to Janine Hopkins, who is living with the condition in Thunder Bay, Ont.; and Dr. Kieran Quinn, a clinician scientist at Sinai Health System and co-lead of the Long COVID Web, a national research network.
How the humble cabbage got this P.E.I. woman a shout out in the New York Times
P.E.I. resident Ann Thurlow used pandemic lockdown time to create a recipe book all about cabbage. It’s a project that’s brought her community together, and got a surprise shoutout in The New York Times.
What historians are learning from the COVID-19 pandemic
Some historians are already studying what happened in the pandemic to help us understand how it will end — and prepare for the next one. We talk to Dr. Jacalyn Duffin is a professor emerita of the history of medicine at Queen's University in Kingston, Ont., and the author of COVID-19: A History; and Erica Charters, a professor of the history of medicine at the University of Oxford, and the lead of the multidisciplinary project How Epidemics End.
Grocery chain CEOs face questions on Parliament Hill
The CEOs of Canada's top grocery chains appeared on Parliament Hill yesterday. They denied allegations that they’re profiteering from high inflation. We talk to Calgary-based economist Todd Hirsch about why inflation may be slowing, but grocery bills are still high.
The pitch clock intended to speed up baseball
Major League Baseball is adding a clock that counts down how long a pitcher can stand at the mound. Sports historian Fred Frommer explains what the new rules will mean to the grand old game.
Rohingya refugee fears the world has forgotten their plight
One million Rohingya refugees live in a camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. After a reduction in food rations and a recent fire, the refugees say the world has forgotten them. We talk to Cox’s Bazar resident Enam Uddin, an 18-year-old who fled his home in Myanmar six years ago; and Domenico Scalpelli, the country director for the World Food Programme in Bangladesh.
Graeme Bayliss on mental illness and medical assistance in dying
Ottawa has put a one-year delay on plans to expand medical assistance in dying to those with mental illness. Matt Galloway talks to Graeme Bayliss, who lives with clinical depression and has been calling for the expansion of MAID for years.
Concerns over expansion of medical assistance in dying
A group of physicians, lawyers and ethicists have published a letter in opposition to recommendations to expand access to medical assistance in dying. Matt Galloway talks to two people who signed it: Dr. Sonu Gaind, chief of psychiatry at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto; and Dr. Catherine Ferrier, who works in the division of geriatrics at Montreal General Hospital.
A new discovery raises questions about the Big Bang
New galaxies discovered using the James Webb telescope are raising questions about how a galaxy is formed. We talk to Erica Nelson, an astrophysicist with the University of Colorado and part of the team that discovered these new galaxies.
Margaret Atwood on grief, censorship — and whether AI could ever replicate her writing
Margaret Atwood’s new book, Old Babes in the Wood, is a collection of short stories that may be her most personal work yet. Galloway spoke with her about those old babes, grief and loss, censorship, and whether she thinks artificial intelligence could ever replicate her writing.
Trudeau announces investigations, special rapporteur to look into election interference claims
The prime minister has announced multiple investigations and the appointment of an independent special rapporteur to look into claims that China interfered in Canadian elections. Matt Galloway talks to Globe and Mail's Ottawa bureau chief Robert Fife.
Solar geoengineering: the complicated science and ethics of modifying the skies
Lowering carbon emissions remains a key part of fighting climate change, but scientists are exploring other options. The United Nations Environment Program is calling for more research into solar geoengineering to reflect some of the sun's light away from the Earth. We talk to Daniel Schrag, director of the Harvard University Center for the Environment; Andrea Hinwood, an environmental scientist with the UN Environment Programme; and Tero Mustonen, an adjunct professor in the University of Easte
UN signs global treaty to protect the oceans
A new treaty to protect oceans and conserve marine life has been agreed upon at the United Nations. We talk to Jeremy Raguain, the climate change and ocean adviser for Seychelles Permanent Mission to the United Nations; and Susanna Fuller, vice-president of operations and projects for the environmental group Oceans North.
Suspected poisoning of Iranian schoolgirls
Hundreds of schoolgirls have been poisoned in their classrooms in Iran, but it’s unclear who the culprits behind the attacks are. We talk to Azadeh Pourzand, a human rights researcher and writer.
How 'zombie cells' could be a key to living longer, healthier lives
Some scientists believe the key to living longer and aging better lies in a phenomenon called cell senescence, also known as “zombie cells.” We discuss that research with Daniel Durocher, a senior investigator at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute at Sinai Health in Toronto.
Cenovus Energy CEO on carbon capture efforts and reaching net zero
Matt Galloway talks to Alex Pourbaix, CEO of Cenovus Energy, about carbon capture technology and his company’s efforts to get to net zero.
Listeners share their views on medical assistance in dying
We hear your responses to last week’s conversation with Sandra Demontigny, a 43-year-old living with early onset Alzheimer’s who is fighting for advanced consent for medical assistance in dying.
Preserving the soundscapes of the Earth’s coldest places
A new project takes recordings from the Arctic and Antarctic — whales, cracking ice and everything in between — and turns them over to musicians. We talk to Stuart Fowkes, a sound artist who curates a global database of sounds called Cities and Memory; and Geraint Rhys Whittaker, an artist-researcher at the Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity and the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research.
Avalanche survivor urges caution after deadly snowslides in B.C.
A dozen people in British Columbia have died from avalanches this year. We speak with Ken Wylie, who was caught in a deadly snowslide 20 years ago, about what it’s like to be buried in snow, and why he thinks we need to rethink our tolerance for risk.
BONUS | ‘I don't want to stay stuck in my body … just waiting to die’
Sandra Demontigny is 43 years old, and has early onset Alzheimer’s. She watched her father and grandmother suffer with the same disease, and wants to one day access medical assistance in dying. But to do that, she needs a change in the law, to allow advanced consent for people with forms of neurocognitive impairment.
The human cost of cobalt, the element that powers our devices
The push to electrify our vehicles is driving a scramble for cobalt, which is almost exclusively mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We talk to Siddharth Kara, author of Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers our Lives.
An Ontario surgeon travelled to earthquake-stricken Syria. Here’s what he saw
Ontario trauma surgeon Dr. Anas Al-Kassem travelled to Syria after last month’s devastating earthquakes. He tells Matt Galloway what he saw and what Canada can do to help the survivors.
Rethinking and rebranding ‘mommy brain’
Postpartum brain fog is familiar for many mothers — sometimes dismissively called “mommy brain.” New research suggests it's actually a time when women's brains are rewiring themselves to learn new skills, multi-task and even have better memory later in life. We talk to Clare McCormack, an assistant professor in child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine; and Liisa Galea, the Treliving Family Chair in Women's Mental Health and senior scientist at CAMH.
A new book explore the mysteries of our minds
With his new book, Psych: The Story of the Human Mind, Canadian psychologist Paul Bloom probes the difference between the brain and the mind, the mystery of consciousness, and whether artificial intelligence will ever match human thought.
National affairs panel on allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian elections
Our national affairs panel discusses allegations of Chinese government interference in Canadian elections. Matt Galloway talks to Catherine Cullen, host of CBC Radio’s The House; Emilie Nicolas, a columnist with Le Devoir; and Joanna Chiu, a reporter with the Toronto Star and author of China Unbound: A New World Disorder.
What time is it on the moon? Experts say it needs a time zone
The European Space Agency wants the moon to have its own time zone. We talk to Nisha Gaind, the European bureau chief for the journal Nature.
Migrant children exploited for cheap labour
Investigative reporter Hannah Dreier takes us inside a shocking New York Times exposé into migrant children arriving unaccompanied in the U.S. and getting exploited for cheap labour.
Facing early onset Alzheimer’s, a Quebec woman fights for a good death
Sandra Demontigny is 43 years old and has early onset Alzheimer’s. She watched her father and grandmother suffer with the same disease, and wants to one day access medical assistance in dying. To do that, she has been pushing the Quebec government to allow advanced consent for people with forms of neurocognitive impairment. Matt Galloway talks to Demontigny about her fight for a good death; and also speaks with Dr. Judes Poirier, deputy director of the Centre for the Studies on the Prevention of
The Dreams of My Father: Why international students in Canada often don’t get what they pay for
Every year, thousands of international students come to Canada to study, forking over big money in tuition fees. In his documentary The Dreams of My Father, Kiran Singh explores why many of those students don’t get what they pay for.
Calls to shut down the Roxham Road border crossing
Thousands of asylum seekers enter Canada through Roxham Road in Quebec each year, but calls to close the unofficial border crossing are growing. Matt Galloway talks to Lovejoyce Amavi, a refugee and author who crossed at Roxham Road in 2017; Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe, immigration critic for the Bloc Québécois; and Warda Shazadi Meighen, an immigration and refugee lawyer.
In new novel, Dr. Vincent Lam explores substance abuse and how to tackle it
In his new book On The Ravine, award-winning author and physician Dr. Vincent Lam uses fiction to explore different approaches to the opioid crisis. The addiction specialist joins us to discuss the concept of the safe supply of illicit drugs, and blurring the line between fact and fiction.
Ottawa bans TikTok on federal devices
The federal government has banned TikTok on all of its mobile devices over privacy concerns. We talk to Vass Bednar, executive director of the master of public policy in digital society program at McMaster University; and Clothilde Goujard, a technology reporter for Politico Europe.
Europe suffers winter drought
Parts of Europe are in the midst of a winter drought, hot on the heels of last summer’s record-breaking dry weather. We discuss the impact with Andrea Toreti, co-ordinator at the European Drought Observatory.
Exploring hydrogen as a step in Canada’s road to net zero
An initiative in Alberta is working on making hydrogen part of Canada’s strategy to reach net-zero emissions, though some experts warn the fuel has drawbacks. Matt Galloway talks to Alanna Hnatiw, chair of the Edmonton Region Hydrogen HUB; David Layzell, a research director at the Transition Accelerator; and Julia Levin, associate director of national climate at Environmental Defence.
Calls to protect the northern spotted owl from logging in B.C.
The federal government is proposing an emergency order to protect the only three northern spotted owls known to be living wild in B.C.’s old-growth forests. We discuss what that means for the owls and local logging industry with Joe Foy, protected areas campaigner for the Wilderness Committee; and Nathan Cullen, B.C.'s minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
What it takes to get big things done — and why ambitious project often flounder
Big projects can mean big headaches, whether it’s a home renovation or building a new transit line. Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner talk to us about their book How Big Things Get Done, which looks at how ambitious projects can go off the rails.
Mark Critch remembers the Rowdy Man, Gordon Pinsent
Actor Mark Critch remembers his friend Gordon Pinsent, the Canadian actor and national treasure who died this weekend at the age of 92.
Part of our Souls: the story of a Ukrainian military medic
The Russia-Ukraine war has changed the lives of thousands of ordinary Ukrainians, from teachers to chefs to lawyers. Roman was a data analyst before he started tending to the wounded on the front lines. Freelance reporter and producer Sarah Lawrynuik brings us his story in her documentary, Part of our Souls.
Historian Margaret MacMillan on geopolitics beyond the Russian invasion of Ukraine
On the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Matt Galloway speaks with historian Margaret MacMillan about how this war ends and the long-term geopolitics that follow.
The Lviv woman who runs a non-profit to collect donations for the war effort
We hear from a woman in Lviv who is balancing the budgets. On one hand, she is working at a big accounting agency. At the same time, she is running a non-profit and collecting donations to support the war effort.
China may have interfered in last federal election, according to a Globe and Mail report
Canada’s spy agency has evidence China interfered in the last federal election, a new report from the Globe and Mail has revealed. The House of Commons procedure and house affairs committee unanimously agreed to dig deeper into the matter. We hear more from Robert Fife, the Globe and Mail’s Ottawa Bureau Chief and part of the team behind this story; Mitch Heimpel, the director of campaigns and government relations at Enterprise Canada; and Richard Fadden, the former director of the Canadian Secu
Checking in with Ukrainians nearly a year after Russia’s invasion
It’s been nearly a year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Matt Galloway speaks with the CBC’s Margaret Evans, who is in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia to check in with residents she spoke with a year ago.
The push for better airline accessibility
Air travel can be stressful for anyone, but for passengers with disabilities there are extra challenges. We hear about calls to make airlines more accessible with Maayan Ziv, the founder and CEO of AccessNow, whose wheelchair was damaged on a flight last year; David Lyons-Black, a travel agent with FlightCentre; and Wendy Porch, the executive director of the Centre for Independent Living in Toronto.
The Russian perspective of the war
We hear the Russian perspective of the war from Denis Volkov, director of the Moscow-based think tank Levada Center; Inna Berezkina, a Russian anti-war activist and international advisor to Democracy Without Borders; and Ksenia, who left Russia for Canada after the invasion began.
How one Lviv hospital is teaching Ukrainians to be unbroken
We go inside a rehab hospital in Lviv that is teaching Ukrainians to be unbroken in the face of war. Matt Galloway speaks with Dr. Hnat Herych, the chief of the surgery department at the Multidisciplinary Clinical Hospital of Emergency and Intensive Care.
The artist who took down the Sackler family
In her latest Oscar-nominated documentary All The Beauty And The Bloodshed, filmmaker Laura Poitras tells the story of the renowned photographer Nan Goldin — and her takedown of the Sackler family.
Former Ottawa police chief on last year’s convoy protests — and the mistakes made
When the convoy protests rolled into downtown Ottawa a year ago, the city’s then-police chief Peter Sloly took much of the blame for not moving it out. The Emergencies Act was invoked and Sloly subsequently resigned from his post. We hear from Sloly about the mistakes made and whether Canada is any better prepared for the next threat.
Harry Forestell’s experience with deep brain stimulation
CBC news anchor Harry Forestell was 53 years old when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. It has no known cures, but there are some life-changing treatments — and Forestell went through one of those last fall. He talks with us about his diagnosis and the remarkable impact of deep brain stimulation.
Justice Rouleau’s report justifies invoking Emergencies Act — but not everyone agrees
A year after the convoy protests occupied Ottawa and the federal government invoked the Emergencies Act, Justice Rouleau’s report finds Justin Trudeau justified. But not everyone agrees with the findings. Matt Galloways speaks with Cara Zwibel, director of the Fundamental Freedoms Program for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association; and Vincent Rigby, former National Security and Intelligence Advisor to Trudeau and a visiting professor at McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy.
Remembering influential Canadian journalist Peter Herrndorf
Peter Herrndorf, an influential Canadian journalist and news programmer, died last Saturday at the age of 82. We hear about his life and passion for the arts from his friend Mark Starowicz, the former executive producer of The Journal.
Russian-Canadian helps Ukrainians resettle across Canada
Russian-Canadian Katya Sundukova has hosted 15 families from Ukraine in her Ontario home over the past year. We hear how and why she’s helped so many families settle into Canada.
Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter’s legacy
The family of former U.S. president Jimmy Carter announced over the weekend that he is now in hospice care at home. We speak with Canadian author and historian Arthur Milnes about how Carter was a president ahead of his time.
A totem pole returns home to Nuxalk territory
Today, a community celebrates the return of a totem pole from the Royal B.C. Museum in Victoria to Nuxalk territory. Matt Galloway talks with Nuxalk Hereditary Chief Snuxyaltwa (Deric Snow), who led the charge to bring the totem pole back; and Heather George, the president of the board of the Canadian Museums Association.
Research suggests cats may be more social than first thought
Cats have been studied less than dogs, but new research suggests that there may be more to our feline friends than we once thought. In a repeat segment from January, we spoke with longtime veterinarian Bruce Kornreich, the director of the Cornell Feline Health Centre; and archivist Jennifer Parrucci, co-author of Cats: From the Archives of The New York Times.
A new CBC podcast delves into the lives and deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman
When Toronto billionaires Barry and Honey Sherman were found dead in their home in 2017, the case baffled police and set off a string of theories about what happened to them. We speak with Kathleen Goldhar, the host of a new podcast co-produced by the CBC: The No Good, Very Kind, Wonderful Lives and Tragic Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman.
The Current Introduces: The No Good, Terribly Kind, Wonderful Lives and Tragic Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman
2017 reverberated around the world. Five years later, with no arrests and little news from the police, their deaths remain shrouded in mystery and conspiracy theories, with too many lingering questions. Not just who killed them, but what kind of life do you have to live that when you’re found dead, there are multiple theories, including some involving your own family? That’s the question journalist Kathleen Goldhar set out to discover, in The No Good, Terribly Kind, Wonderful Lives and Tragic De