The Current

This episode explores the economic anxiety in Canada driven by ongoing trade tensions with the United States, specifically focusing on how tariffs are causing job cuts at Stelco and impacting the Hamilton region. The discussion examines the broader implications of these trade disputes, including a shift toward a slower growth environment characterized by declining business and consumer confidence. The episode also addresses the uneven nature of recent Canadian job creation, which has been concentrated in the services sector, and the urgent necessity for businesses and the government to pursue diversification strategies in markets and supply chains to mitigate economic instability.

This episode examines the Netflix reality TV reboot of the Stanford Prison Experiment and provides a psychological re-analysis of the original study. Professor Jay Van Bavel explains that new evidence suggests the original experiment's violence was prompted by researchers pressuring guards to be brutal, emphasizing that leadership signals are more critical in driving behavior than power alone. Featuring TV critic Andy Dennert, the discussion also explores the ethics of using intellectual property for marketing and how reality television often simplifies complex social issues like power and inequality. The conversation touches on themes of ethical exploitation and the consumption of reality TV as spectacle.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Charles Spencer about his new book, 'Swan Song, Diana, My Sister'. Spencer provides an intimate look at the private side of Princess Diana, exploring her vulnerabilities, her character, and the relentless pressure exerted by the paparazzi. The conversation delves into the complexities of Diana's relationship with the media and recounts personal experiences following her death, including a tense phone call with Prince Charles and the emotional intensity of delivering her eulogy. Spencer also discusses his decision to disinvite tabloid editors from the funeral, the enduring influence of the Royal Family, and his motivations for sharing his perspective now.

This episode of The Current Podcast examines the significant surge in diesel prices across Canada, which has seen costs rise from approximately $1.46 to $2.75 per liter since the start of the year. Through an interview with energy consultant Richard Masson, the discussion explores how global geopolitical tensions—specifically the war in Iran and the conflict in Ukraine—are driving up refined product costs and depleting inventories. The conversation also evaluates potential domestic policy responses, such as tax cuts or subsidies, and the complexities of US export bans on diesel.

Matt Galloway interviews Stacey Ugluk-McDonald and Alethea Arnakuk-Borill, the creators of the hit series North of North. They discuss the show's global success, the importance of authentic Indigenous representation, and the challenges of filming in the extreme Arctic winter. The conversation also touches on the production's commitment to authenticity, the role of 'native aunties' in providing guidance, and how their creative partnership contributes to a stronger Canadian cultural identity through Indigenous storytelling.

This episode follows the story of Jordan Kochek, a man struggling with long-term alcohol addiction and frequent relapses while living in a therapeutic community for men. The narrative explores the devastating personal losses caused by his disease, including the tragic death of his mentor, Rob, due to an overdose. The episode also examines the medical complexities of treating alcohol use disorder, contrasting the lack of pharmacological intervention in hospitals with intensive community-based approaches. Dr. Evan Alon provides insights into the systemic lack of medical treatment options and how stigma and a lack of information among medical professionals hinder effective care.

This episode examines the upcoming Alberta referendum, focusing on new polling that indicates a softening of separatist support and shifting political attitudes. The discussion explores voter sentiment toward Canada and the UCP through insights from pollster Janet Brown. The conversation also addresses proposed referendum questions regarding immigration control and provincial priority. Guests discuss the potential for these complex questions to impact the social atmosphere, expressing concerns about increased polarization and the risk of fracturing society.

Matt Galloway interviews Marianne McCall, author of 'The Ten Stories, What Aging Parents Want Us to Hear,' regarding the significance of repetitive storytelling in older generations. McCall explains that these stories serve five primary purposes—consolidating identity, entertaining, instructing, resolving conflict, and honoring loved ones. The discussion explores the importance of active listening and finding deeper meaning in these recurring narratives. By viewing these stories as intentional gifts, listeners can foster connection and preserve generational values, even when specific details are inconsistent.

Host Matt Galloway interviews cardiac surgeon Dr. Subod Verma about the profound importance of human connection, interdependence, and the lessons learned through surgery. Dr. Verma shares a dramatic case of a patient surviving a crossbow wound to the heart, illustrating how medical success relies on collective action rather than individual heroism. Dr. Verma also discusses the value of mentorship through 'informed believers' and reflects on how the human heart serves as a radical teacher of equity, being indifferent to social identity or status. He concludes by sharing the profound awe and responsibility felt when performing life-saving surgery.

Host Matt Galloway interviews political science professor Stephen Seidman regarding Prime Minister Carney's comments about the 'extreme tail risk' of a U.S. invasion of Canada. The discussion explores the distinction between an attack and an invasion, the political motivations behind the Prime Minister's timing ahead of U.S. midterms, and the potential for military non-compliance as a deterrent. The episode also examines the low probability but high-consequence nature of such risks, emphasizing the need for prudent military planning against various threats like cyber attacks. While a full-scale invasion is considered unlikely, the discussion highlights the importance of strengthening Canadian resilience and managing domestic economic and alliance-building levers in response to current U.S. administration rhetoric.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Dirk Steinka, a research scientist at the University of Guelph, regarding the ongoing discovery of new species across the globe. The conversation explores recent breakthroughs, such as the identification of a new cat species in the Bolivian cloud forest and a new penguin species, highlighting how advancements in genetic analysis and DNA barcoding are accelerating scientific descriptions. Steinka discusses the staggering estimates of unidentified insect species, the distinction between local observation and formal scientific discovery, and the critical importance of identifying biodiversity to implement effective conservation efforts.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, Matt Galloway interviews sisters Vienna and Shaughnessy Luke about their pursuit of justice following a 2007 sexual assault. They discuss the devastating long-term impact of the perpetrator's actions on their family and the discovery of evidence regarding the use of ketamine that led to an undercover police operation. Vienna describes the RCMP's undercover strategy to secure a confession from the perpetrator, involving role-playing and the promise of family reconciliation. The episode concludes with reflections on the sisters' bravery and the emotional toll the journey has taken.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews veteran foreign correspondent Paul Workman about his decision to hide a life-threatening diagnosis of myelofibrosis while reporting from global conflict zones. Workman discusses the physical and emotional challenges of managing a rare blood cancer, including undergoing frequent blood transfusions and administering medication while serving as the London bureau chief for CTV. The conversation explores the moral complexities of keeping his illness secret from his employer to avoid being grounded, the logistical difficulties of maintaining a professional facade in high-pressure environments, and the broader implications of news organizations closing international bureaus. Workman shares why he has recently chosen to go public with his story to raise awareness for myelofibrosis and support research foundations.

This episode explores the complex political landscape of the upcoming Quebec election, examining the dynamics between five competing parties and the lingering tension surrounding a potential referendum. The discussion delves into critical domestic issues, including healthcare privatization, economic stability, and the impact of immigration on regional demographics and the French language. The conversation also addresses the influence of external figures like Donald Trump and Mark Carney on provincial politics. Ultimately, the episode concludes with an analysis of the current political climate and predictions for a potential minority government outcome.

Host Matt Galloway interviews David A. Graham, a staff writer with The Atlantic, regarding the Trump administration's recent ban on CNN, MSNBC, and Politico from the White House. The discussion explores the implications of using presidential power to restrict media access, the retaliatory suspension of video coverage by major networks like ABC, CBS, Fox News, and NBC, and the legal challenges currently underway. Graham analyzes the president's long-standing obsession with press coverage and examines how recent restrictions on Pentagon reporting and the use of anonymous sources impact public trust in journalism. The episode also touches upon the broader political landscape, including inflation, the war in Iran, and the potential for continued verbal warfare between the administration and the media leading into the midterms.

This episode explores how university professors are adapting teaching and assessment methods in response to the rise of generative AI. Professors Shauna Dolansky and Mike Welland discuss moving away from take-home essays toward more interactive, in-class, and accountable forms of evaluation to ensure genuine learning. Featuring insights from an MIT expert, the discussion examines how AI can facilitate higher-level cognitive tasks while warning against 'cognitive surrender,' where students avoid the productive struggle necessary for true learning. The conversation emphasizes the need to focus on developing critical thinking skills rather than just pursuing grades or credentials.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the economic and political tensions in New Brunswick following Premier Susan Holt's proposal to restrict moose, salmon, and mining claims to Canadian citizens. Proposed as a retaliatory measure against United States tariffs, the legislative review has sparked significant concern among local hunting and fishing outfitters who rely heavily on American tourists. The program features interviews with Brad Burns, an American property owner and fisherman from Maine, and Debbie Norton, president of the New Brunswick Professional Outfitter Guide Association. Both guests discuss the potential for economic devastation to the provincial outfitting industry, which contributes significantly to New Brunswick's GDP through non-resident tourism.

Host Matt Galloway interviews historian Anne Applebaum about the radical shifts in American foreign policy under Donald Trump. The conversation explores how the administration is moving away from promoting democracy and alliances toward a transactional 'Empire of Grift' that prioritizes the interests of specific companies and ideologues, as well as the potential implications for Canadian sovereignty. The discussion also examines the long-term impact of these political ideas on the American system. The erosion of democracy as a central organizing principle threatens U.S. unity and global influence, potentially forcing other democratic nations to form alternative poles of power.

Author Ben McIntyre discusses his book 'Redwood', which details the true story of KGB officer Vladimir Kozichkin defecting to MI6 in 1980s Iran. The conversation covers Kozichkin's motivations for spying, including a desperate need for Western medicine, and the high-stakes intelligence exchange involving Soviet plots and a Canadian mole. The episode also details the high-stakes escape of Kuzichkin from Iran using a precarious plan to bluff through the Turkish border. The discussion explores the profound geopolitical consequences of his defection on the Islamic regime's power and concludes with the surreal historical coincidence of Kuzichkin later working as an acupuncturist for actor Alec Guinness.

A shooting at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, has left a police officer seriously wounded and a community in shock. During the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, gunfire broke out near the building, leading congregants to take cover as bullets struck the sanctuary windows. The incident follows a pattern of rising anti-Semitic violence across Canada. In this episode of The Current Podcast, Norm Wedham, president of the Sons of Jacob Synagogue, recounts the harrowing moments of the attack and describes the immediate aftermath. The conversation explores the increasing need for security measures within Jewish institutions and the broader impact of hate and fear on the community's sense of safety.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Bea Brusk, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, regarding the federal government's new Major Projects Bill. The discussion focuses on the controversial use of Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, which allows the government to intervene in labour disputes and order workers back to work. Brusk argues that the proposed changes undermine workers' rights by reducing their leverage at the bargaining table and enshrining government intervention in the labour code. She contends that while the government claims these measures provide certainty for major projects and the national interest, they actually risk increasing labour strife and creating illegal strikes.

This episode explores the debate surrounding the integration of AI in Canadian public schools, featuring perspectives from concerned parents and educational professionals. The discussion highlights the tension between the practical challenges of maintaining academic integrity and the potential risks to cognitive development. Experts and educators examine how AI might remove the 'productive struggle' necessary for learning, potentially leading to cognitive de-skilling and reduced social-emotional development in children. The conversation covers the phenomenon of cognitive offloading and the necessity of teaching responsible AI use rather than ignoring its presence in the classroom.

An exploration of the pawpaw, a rare and native North American fruit with a tropical flavor profile. The episode follows the efforts of Beth and Thomas Mathias at their Ontario orchard to cultivate this difficult-to-grow crop, noting the challenges of pollination and short shelf life. Featuring insights from Chef Tanya Brandt, the conversation delves into the fruit's cultural significance within Haudenosaunee food traditions, its unique taste reminiscent of mango and banana, and the current movement toward seasonal, local eating.

A panel of journalists discusses the Canadian government's legislative priorities, focusing on economic stability, infrastructure, and labor reforms. The conversation explores the implications of strengthening ties with Europe, including potential investments in critical minerals and the political challenges regarding sovereignty and immigration. The discussion also examines the internal challenges facing Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party, specifically regarding the influence of COVID-19 conspiracy theories among their base and a lack of cohesive policy distinction from the Liberals. The speakers touch upon the pressure of upcoming by-elections and the difficulty of maintaining party unity.

Photographer Edward Burtynsky discusses his work documenting large-scale industrial landscapes and the profound connection between urban life and resource extraction. Drawing from personal experiences in manufacturing towns and underground mines, he explores the complexity of maintaining neutrality while capturing the environmental and human costs of global production. The conversation further examines the ethical complexities of photographing industrial sites, covering the massive scale of manufacturing in China and the dangerous working conditions in Bangladesh's ship-breaking yards. Burtynsky also addresses the immense material requirements and mineral extraction needed for a global transition to net zero energy.

This episode explores the use of 'The Brick,' an NFC device designed to reduce smartphone addiction by adding physical friction to app usage. While users like Alex Kirshner find it helpful for reclaiming productivity, psychologist Moxie Heitmeyer notes that the underlying issue lies in ingrained habits rather than the device itself. The discussion further examines how technology is intentionally engineered to capture attention, arguing against personal shame for device overuse. The conversation emphasizes the need for 'attention literacy' and societal regulation instead of relying solely on individual quick fixes or bans.

This episode of The Current Podcast examines the tragic death of Miranda Mamakwa, a 31-year-old mother from Fort Severn First Nation. Following open-heart surgery in Ottawa, Mamakwa was unable to attend critical follow-up appointments because her requests for travel funding through the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits Program were denied. Grand Chief Alvin Fidler discusses the devastating impact on the community and the systemic failures within Indigenous Services Canada. The conversation highlights broader issues regarding a two-tiered healthcare system and the lack of adequate funding for medical transit in First Nations communities. As Indigenous leaders demand accountability and an investigation into the decision-making processes that led to this preventable death, the episode explores the urgent need for sustainable, long-term solutions and community-led healthcare autonomy.

This episode explores the impact of escalating trade wars between Canada and the United States on Canadian manufacturers. Through interviews with business owners from Ambico and Northern Cables, the discussion highlights how tariffs are forcing companies to find workarounds or face significant business losses. The discussion further examines how companies are managing uncertainty and potential production shifts. Dennis Darby of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters highlights that while large multinationals may have the resources to move production, many Canadian manufacturers are instead reducing capital investment due to the volatility of the trade dispute.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the end of an era as Hockey Night in Canada concludes its 75-season run on CBC, being replaced by broadcasts on Sportsnet and Amazon Prime. Host Matt Galloway interviews Sarah Barnes, curator of sport and leisure at the Canadian Museum of History, to discuss the cultural impact of the long-running program and what the shift toward subscription-based models means for the accessibility of the sport. The conversation delves into the evolution of hockey culture in Canada, touching upon the importance of diverse broadcasts—such as Punjabi language programming—in expanding the game's reach. Barnes highlights the resilience of hockey fans and the growth of new opportunities like the PWHL, suggesting that while the media landscape is changing, the passion for the sport continues to evolve alongside Canada's diversifying population.

This episode explores the inherent dangers of competitive cycling, focusing on a documentary investigation into rider safety. It details the tragic death of Muriel Fuhrer during a race in Zurich and discusses the lack of GPS tracking technology at smaller-scale races like the Canadian National Championships. The discussion further examines various safety concerns in professional cycling, ranging from the potential for airbag technology to the dangers posed by urban road infrastructure. It also explores how structural changes, such as the UCI's promotion and relegation system, may inadvertently increase rider risk-taking during races.

Host Matt Galloway interviews legendary filmmaker Barbara Koppell about her new film, 'Union Town,' which explores the modern struggles of delivery workers in New York City. The conversation reflects on Koppell's career, from documenting coal miners' strikes to observing current challenges faced by Amazon and UPS workers, including labor exploitation and union busting. The episode also examines the impact of automation on the workforce, the role of consumers in supporting fair labor practices, and the enduring power of storytelling in highlighting the struggles of independent workers.

This episode explores Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent address to the European Parliament, which called for closer ties and a potential 'privileged relationship' between Canada and the EU. Through interviews with experts Jeremy Kinsman and Nikolai von Ondarza, the discussion examines the complexities of an associate membership alliance, including trade agreements like CETA and the challenges of regulatory alignment. The conversation also addresses significant geopolitical implications, such as concerns regarding sovereignty, immigration, and the potential for tension with the United States. The episode weighs the impact of this partnership on Canada's foundational relationship with the U.S. and the broader landscape of European security.

Matt Galloway interviews space architect Ariel Ekblah about the future of human presence in orbit and the work being done by the Aurelia Institute. They discuss self-assembling space structures, the potential for a burgeoning space economy, and the importance of using space technology to benefit life on Earth. The conversation also explores the balance between commercial interests and government regulation to ensure an equitable lunar presence. The episode covers the potential for 'off-worlding' heavy industry and data centers to protect Earth, as well as how space-based research is driving medical innovations like improved cancer drug delivery.

This episode explores the devastating impact of a fast-moving forest fire in Summerland, British Columbia, which forced thousands to evacuate in the middle of the night. Through personal stories of loss and chaos, it examines the extreme speed of the wildfire's spread and the dangerous lack of early warning alerts for residents. The discussion details the immense pressure on local emergency services and the long-term emotional trauma and property loss experienced by the community. It further explores the urgent need for proactive fire mitigation, better infrastructure planning, and a shift away from purely reactive fire response in the face of changing climate conditions.

Investigative journalist Stephen Witt discusses the existential risks posed by advanced AI, including the possibility of models escaping containment and acting with independent volition. He explores fears regarding uncontrolled self-improvement and the potential for rogue systems to cause global harm. The episode also examines the debate over regulation, weighing the risks of a 'kill switch' against the economic consequences of banning development. The discussion highlights the need for oversight mechanisms like global monitoring systems and the influence of industry leaders on political discourse.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Van R. Newkirk II, a senior editor at The Atlantic, regarding the recent population increase in monarch butterflies. Newkirk shares his firsthand observations from Mexico's monarch butterfly biosphere reserve, describing the overwhelming scale of the migration and the biological marvel of the 'super generation' that travels vast distances across North America. The conversation explores the intersection of conservation success and ongoing environmental threats. While the planting of milkweed waystations in the U.S. and Canada has contributed to a population bounce back, Newkirk highlights critical dangers such as habitat loss driven by the avocado trade in Mexico and the overarching impact of climate change. The episode concludes with reflections on humanity's role as stewards of the natural world.

Political correspondent Rob Shaw joins The Current Podcast to discuss the ongoing political instability within the British Columbia Conservative Party. Following the leadership of Carrie Lynn Finley, the party is experiencing a significant internal fracture, characterized by the defection of several MLAs and the formation of a new, yet-to-be-named conservative group focused on traditional economic issues rather than culture wars. The episode explores the implications of this party split for Premier David Eby and the potential for an early provincial election. Shaw details the ideological shift toward social conservatism within the BC Conservatives and warns that the current situation serves as a cautionary tale for conservative movements across Canada, including the federal level.

Host Matt Galloway interviews former U.S. Ambassador Bruce Heyman and former Quebec Premier Jean Charest about the evolving Canada-U.S. trade relationship, focusing on the impact of American protectionism and the challenges of rebuilding trust. Jean Charest discusses the necessity for Canada to diversify its economic partnerships toward Europe through cooperation in resources, labor mobility, and technology. He also explores Canada's potential role in leading a new architecture of trade among middle powers to avoid domination by superpowers.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, Matt Galloway interviews Doug Kitchen, a man from Alberta who turned to ChatGPT for support during a period of severe depression and isolation following his wife's departure. While acknowledging the risks associated with AI, Doug describes how the chatbot served as a 24/7 companion that helped him navigate practical life tasks and emotional processing when human resources were unavailable. The segment also features an interview with psychiatrist Dr. Vincent Pekin regarding the use of AI chatbots for mental health support. While acknowledging that chatbots can serve as a helpful 'tool' for those facing barriers to professional care, Dr. Pekin warns about the risks of commercialized AI providing misinformation or prioritizing engagement over clinical safety.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews David Sturge, the Canadian Geographic Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Speaking from Butterpot Provincial Park where he also serves as a park ranger, Sturge discusses his deep-rooted connection to the landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador and his transition into wildlife conservation photography. The conversation explores the profound bond formed through long-term immersion in nature and the sobering realities of climate change. Sturge shares poignant stories of observing seal pups and the receding ice packs, highlighting how environmental shifts impact local wildlife. He concludes by discussing his mission to use his photography as a voice for animals and an inspiration for people to reconnect with the natural world.

This episode of The Current Podcast examines the controversy surrounding a new advertisement for the sports betting app Novig featuring actress Sydney Sweeney. Culture critic Bea Kwame joins host Matt Galloway to discuss how the ad, which utilizes Sweeney's image in a highly sexualized manner, has sparked backlash from professional female athletes and critics alike. The conversation explores the broader implications of using celebrity sexuality to drive engagement in the 'outrage economy.' The discussion touches upon the impact of such imagery on young girls, the distinction between individual choice feminism and its collective social cost, and the strategic use of controversy to gain market visibility for new betting platforms.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews author Priya Parker about her new book, 'The Art of Fighting.' The discussion explores how conflict can serve as a generative force rather than something to be avoided, moving through the spectrum from 'unhealthy peace' and 'unhealthy heat' toward 'healthy heat.' Parker discusses the importance of developing better tools for managing tension, using examples ranging from television scenes in 'The Bear' to navigating workplace disputes and family narratives. The conversation also addresses how digital tools can escalate conflict and how sharing complex histories can build resilience.

This episode features an interview with Bloomberg's Matthew Winkler regarding an investment summit in Canada led by Mark Carney. Winkler discusses Canada's economic potential, using a 'hobbit' analogy to describe the reliable nature of Canadians while highlighting a recent influx of foreign investment into the country. The discussion further explores the challenges and opportunities for attracting foreign investment to Canada. It addresses how regulatory fragmentation and political uncertainty can deter long-term institutional investors, while also examining the economic benefits of attracting global capital to provide Canada with greater economic optionality.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the concept of 'super movers'—older adults who maintain a fast walking pace. Featuring an interview with Dr. Sophia Millman from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, the segment discusses new research suggesting that walking at a higher speed is linked to a 50% reduction in the risk of cognitive decline. The discussion delves into the biological mechanisms behind these findings, such as the release of neuroprotective chemicals like BDNF during exercise. Dr. Millman also highlights how physical activity combined with social interaction, as seen in groups like the Vancouver Venturers, may provide synergistic benefits for brain health and resilience against Alzheimer's pathology.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway and senior international correspondent Margaret Evans discuss the deteriorating situation for women in Afghanistan following the Taliban's return to power. Through an interview with a woman whose identity is protected, the program explores the loss of fundamental rights, including access to education and movement, and the psychological toll of living under strict religious decrees. The conversation also examines the failure of international bureaucratic processes, specifically focusing on how a Canadian-funded aid worker was left behind due to administrative errors within Global Affairs Canada and immigration systems. The episode highlights the personal struggle of an Afghan woman attempting to maintain hope while navigating a landscape of extreme restriction and perceived abandonment by the West.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Ron DeFrancesco and Wendy Lansky, two survivors who were working in the World Trade Center towers during the September 11 attacks. They recount their harrowing experiences navigating smoke, fire, and collapsing structures. The conversation also explores the long-term physical, mental, and emotional aftermath of the attacks. The survivors discuss themes of survivor's guilt, the importance of sharing their stories to honor those lost, and reflections on global unity versus modern divisiveness.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the enduring bond between Jeanette Gutierrez, a 9/11 survivor from New York City, and Kelly Sevier, a special events coordinator in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador. Following the September 11 attacks, when thousands of diverted passengers landed in Gander, the town's massive humanitarian effort created a lasting connection between these two women. The conversation delves into the personal impact of the attacks, Jeanette's experience of being saved by her sister during the World Trade Center collapse, and the legendary hospitality shown by the people of Gander. Through stories of 'screeching in' ceremonies and shared grief, the episode reflects on friendship, resilience, and the unbreakable ties between Canada and the United States.