The Current

This episode explores the massive scale and impact of the self-help industry, examining how it functions to synthesize human wisdom and differentiate between helpful guidance and 'grifters'. The discussion delves into the importance of self-improvement techniques and the role of the genre in managing information overload. The conversation also tracks the evolving nature of self-help, noting a shift from grandiose promises toward more practical, granular strategies. The speakers explore the psychological and sociological implications of the genre, including gender differences in consumption and the tension between individual improvement and social reform.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the international outrage following an alleged gang rape at Cornell University involving seven fraternity members. Host Matt Galloway interviews Farrah Khan, CEO of Possibility Seeds, to discuss the implications of the case, which includes allegations of institutional complicity and the failure of campus authorities to hold perpetrators accountable. The conversation delves into the broader systemic issues surrounding sexual violence in post-secondary institutions, the rise of the 'manosphere,' and the urgent need for national standards regarding gender-based violence prevention and comprehensive sexual health education.

An interview with Harvey Matthews, the Mayor of Campobello Island, regarding the impact of the Canada-United States trade war on small border communities. The discussion focuses on how recent import bans and tariffs have disrupted essential supply chains, specifically affecting the delivery of goods like mail, food, and pharmaceuticals to the island. As the seasonal ferry service approaches its end for the season, the community faces increasing isolation due to roadblocks at the Maine-New Brunswick border.

CBC international correspondent Briar Stewart discusses the escalating Russian drone and missile attacks in Ukraine, focusing on the psychological toll on Kyiv and Odessa and the strategic targeting of energy infrastructure. The discussion explores how these strikes aim to grind down the Ukrainian economy and disrupt global grain markets. The episode also examines the evolving nature of modern warfare through the use of jet-powered drones, which present significant interception challenges. Beyond combat, the segment highlights the dual use of drone technology for humanitarian aid delivery and the growing anxiety regarding the impact of upcoming winter attacks on essential energy services.

This episode tells the story of Willie Blackwater, a survivor of the Alberni Indian Residential School who used a knife to confront and stop his abuser. It follows his journey from a childhood of trauma and resistance to becoming a key figure in legal battles for accountability against the church and government. The episode also details the legal battle led by Blackwater against the United Church and the Canadian government, highlighting the immense personal toll experienced by the plaintiffs. The discussion concludes with the profound impact of Blackwater's journey toward forgiveness and the importance of recognizing his role in advancing justice and reconciliation.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Chan Hong Kao, an associate professor at McGill University and winner of the Ig Nobel Prize in technology. The interview explores the whimsical yet scientifically significant research involving the repurposing of dead mosquito proboscises to create ultra-fine nozzles for high-resolution 3D printing, a process referred to as '3D necroprinting'. Kao discusses the inspiration behind using nature's evolved tools to solve engineering challenges, the importance of maintaining scientific curiosity, and how seemingly trivial or 'silly' research questions can lead to groundbreaking technological advancements like bionic contact lenses. The conversation also touches on the human element of science in the age of AI and Kao's long-term goal of developing safer alternatives to chemical mosquito repellents.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway discusses a significant one-million-dollar donation from Canadian literary icon Margaret Atwood to Western University. The gift is made in honor of her late partner, novelist Graham Gibson, and will establish a new chair for avian biology. Through an interview with biology professor Chris Guglielmo, the episode explores the importance of southwestern Ontario as a critical migratory corridor for millions of birds. The conversation covers the role of birds as environmental indicators, the history of conservation success stories like raptor recovery, and the ongoing scientific mysteries regarding the ultra-endurance flight capabilities of certain species.

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.