The Big Story

Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has been voted in as Quebec's newest Premier. His party, Parti Québécois, secured their minority government on Monday night's election with 59 seats, up from three seats back in 2022. Among his plans for the province, he eyes holding a referendum in a push to separate Quebec from Canada. And although Plamondon promised to wait until US President Trump left the White House, the new Premier would still need to gain the support from the other provincial parties. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to André Lecours, a political science professor at the University of Ottawa to discuss what PSPP's win means for the province, its future in Canada, and for Prime Minister Carney's tenure.

Plus: Health care and taxes dominate the election campaign in British Columbia with the Conservatives criticizing the NDP's record, the Manitoba government is proposing changes that would eliminate window coverings on all cannabis storefronts because of safety concerns, the head coach of Canada's men's soccer team says he has a unique perspective when it comes to speaking out on political issues, and what Avi Lewis thinks of Ottawa's Bill C-39.

Ottawa is furthering its pursuit of building a stronger, more sovereign Canada. Bill C-39, the Build Canada Strong Act is the latest omnibus legislation that aims to reform parts of the Canadian Labour Code, as well as streamline projects deemed of 'national interest' . Critics, however, say the bill throws environmental protection, Indigenous consultation and workers' rights all into limbo. Among those critics is Federal NDP Leader, Avi Lewis.  Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Mr. Lewis to discuss who he thinks gets left behind in the bill, what tweaks are needed to protect workers, and why Prime Minister Carney's goals seem to be less in the interest of Canadians and more in the interest of foreign investors.

Plus: Cornell's Jane Doe has received multiple threats to withdraw her lawsuit, Florida voters are deciding whether to scrap property tax with Canadians potentially having to foot the bill, a dozen people are isolating after a lab worker dies in Russia from pneumonia of an 'unknown origin', a new report says screen time and social media use should be deemed a public health issue, and how can Canada improve on its universal child-care system?

Ontario has become the latest province to extend their $10-a-day childcare deal with the federal government. It's a policy that's undoubtably reduced prices for Canadians, but that doesn't mean it's become more accessible. A crisis of affordability has become one of availability, as the number of open spots across the province is far fewer than the demand for them. So, what needs to happen to make Canada's "universal childcare" program actually universal? Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Martha Friendly, the Executive Director of the Childcare Resource and Research Unit, about how the system is working, how it's not, and how Canada can better fulfil the promises of its newest large social program.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!". The drama around Canada-U.S. trade and U.S. President Trump's ramp up in rhetoric might all be connected to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to push back. Many of us are now watching closely and voters south of the border prepare to vote in their midterms, where Canadians are hoping a Democratic congress could put a check on Trump. However, one longtime watcher of Canada-US relations says its not clear if things will change. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Ron Stagg, Professor Emeritus of history from Toronto Metropolitan University about how things have played out, why it’s unusual, and how the trade war could end up being a good thing.

Plus: A top official at the Bank of Canada says monetary policymakers are struggling to find new tools and pathways to address persistent housing affordability challenges, the Saskatchewan government and Bell Canada say work is ramping up on the company's mega A.I. data centre outside Regina, Canadian Astronaut Joshua Kutryk is now aboard the International Space Station as a mission specialist on the four-person mission crew.

Digital cameras, wired headphones, Discmans galore. If you're noticing more and more technological regression in your everyday life, you're not alone. People seem to be opting for less-advanced tools and toys, for the more simple, analogue items. Why? Well, that's what we're trying to figure out. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Ramishah Maruf, writer for CNN Business, as well as Richard Lachman, a professor at the RTA School of Media at Toronto Metropolitan University and author of Digital wisdom: Searching for Agency in the Age of AI. They discuss why people are heading offline and IRL, and whether or not there's a bigger movement behind the trend of digital detoxification.

Plus: Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to announce today that an oil pipeline to the west coast will be designated as a project of national interest. Industry Minister Melanie Joly says the government is evaluating all its options after an Ontario steel producer announced hundreds of job cuts this week, members of British Columbia's Tsawwassen first nation lined the road, drummed and chanted as the bodies of two elders were taken away outside a shopping centre south of Vancouver. More details on the Israel-bound passenger jet that was diverted to Saudi Arabia after its co-pilot attacked the captain.

Another Canadian is heading to space! Alberta-native Joshua Kutryk will be on his way this week for a six-month visit to the International Space Station, alongside three other crew members onboard NASA’s SpaceX Crew 13 mission. They plan on conducting research, maintenance, as well as experiments as they orbit the Earth. Host Catherine Jetté speaks to Major Erin Edwards, NASA Deputy Branch Chief for Crew Operation and ISS CAPCOM instructor. They discuss Kutryk's mission, and Canadian impacts on space exploration and advancement at large.

Plus: Several events are being held across Canada as the country remembers its residential school legacy and honours survivors and victims, mid-term elections are right around the corner for the U.S. as Carney says he won't apply new trade pressure right now, more U.S. troops are leaving Iraq, and a new survey finds young Canadians are growing more and more skeptical of democracy in this country.

As Prime Minister Mark Carney longs for a stronger Canada, his lust for fast-tracking projects signals a threat to meaningful conversation and consultation from Indigenous groups. Earlier this month at his Investment Summit in Toronto, hundreds of protestors across the country gathered in opposition to his pitch for a trillion dollars in exchange for what they feel like is their say in projects. Same goes for the Ontario government's plans for infrastructure surrounding the Ring of Fire, specifically Bill 5. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Chadwick Cowie, political science professor at the University of Toronto to discuss the Carney government's relationship with First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups, and why pushing their voices to the fringes is more dangerous than not.

Plus: Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Vancouver, set to make a major announcement related to the energy industry. Ontario Premier Doug Ford says Albertans need to stay Canadian. Ukrainians who survived Russian captivity are thanking Canada for its advocacy and for funding programs to help children heal from trauma. Canada will mark its 5th National Truth and Reconciliation day on September 30th, a new digital book is exploring how generations of Indigenous artists have responded to the Indian Residential School System and its ongoing legacy.

Yemen's Houthi rebels have further complicated any chance at restoring global security and trade in the Middle East, after taking control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait and Yemen's Red Sea coastline. They've since attacked numerous Saudi Arabian ships trying to pass through, as well as launched drone attacks into country. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has asked US President Trump for help, but Trump has ruled out US airstrikes, rather offering intelligence and other supports. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Peter Bates, a former Canadian Foreign Service Officer and Fellow with the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, to discuss what the Houthis are after, what Iran has to gain, and whether or not Trump will rethink the US' involvement.

Plus: Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre wants to eliminate all tax on diesel sales until at least Canada Day, the Canadian Police and Peace Officers’ annual memorial service in Ottawa has recognized five police officers and a correctional services officer who died this year, a decade after their final concert a staple of Canadiana joined the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.

More than 451,000 additional lives may be taken come February as a result of extreme heat from this year's 'super' El Niño. That's according to a recent study by the Climate Impact Lab, who also says these deaths can be avoided if the right mitigation plans are put in place. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Genevieve Maricle, the Executive Director of the Climate Impact Lab, about where these 451,000 deaths could come from, how much of the problem has to do with infrastructure rather than temperature, and what emergency preparedness could look like.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" It’s a long running issue for Canadians: affordable housing. Its lack thereof leaves many spending a large amount of their income solely on keeping a roof over their head. And at a time where just about everything seems to be getting more expensive, the idea of ownership seems distant for many. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Bruce Sellery, the CEO of Credit Canada for some tips on how to manage expectations, what changes you should consider if you want to achieve home ownership, and more.

Plus: the Federal government is trying to relieve concerns after a New York Times report claimed Canada has considered military scenarios to defend against an attack from the U.S., today is the last day to apply for a mail-in ballot for Alberta's October 19th referendum, and September 25 is now Dolly Parton Day.

If you've gone to a concert recently-- or any event really-- you've probably noticed them come out. Maybe they've obstructed your view. Maybe you've pulled one out yourself. Maybe you've judged people for it. Maybe they're so ubiquitous now; you actually haven't thought about them at all. Of course, we're referring to cell phones. They're a topic of contention, with plenty of people ready to tell you they're ruining the concert experience-- but is there also an upside? Let's have the debate. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Andy Greene, a senior writer at Rolling Stone magazine, about his belief that the number of devices at concerts is ruining the experience. Then, Caryn speaks with Wendy Fonarow, an anthropologist, writer, music industry professional, about how whether or not you should be recording at a concert, really depends on what you want from the experience.

Plus: U.S. President Trump hosts Xi Jinping at the White House, two major speeches are planned for the United Nations General Assembly, a new poll shows the vast majority of Canadians support Canada becoming an 'associate member' of the EU, another animal from Marineland has died, and why British Columbians will be heading to the polls two years early.

British Columbians will be heading to the polls two years ahead of schedule this fall. The snap call by Premier David Eby comes amid turmoil within the B.C. Conservative Party, his chief opponents, and at a sensitive time for the province, as the government has attempted to deal with controversy around Indigenous rights legislation. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Shannon Waters, a B.C. political and environmental reporter for The Narwhal, about the gamble Eby took by dropping the writ, the drama surrounding the B.C. Conservative Party, and how much of an election issue Indigenous rights and DRIPA might be.

PLUS: Several seniors have been arrested and charged with trespassing on Parliament Hill as they called for stronger government action to address climate change, voters in B.C. will head to the polls on October 24th after provincial NDP leader David Eby called a snap election, the Polaris music prize given to Angine De Poitrine.

U.S. voters will soon head to the polls to determine who will control their Senate and House of Representatives. Happening halfway through President Trump's second term, the midterms are often considered a barometer of how Americans feel their leader is doing - and poll after poll show Trump's approval rating continue to dip to historic lows. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Aaron Parnas, a US-based independent journalist and commentator about what Canadians need to know about this upcoming midterm election, what Trump means when he tells Americans to "vote like my name is on the ballot", and whether or not a new congress could finally put a check on the President.

PLUS: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is rejecting a claim from her party president that her government is muting its Pro-Canada messaging ahead of the separation vote next month. The British Columbia government has filed a lawsuit against artificial intelligence company Open AI in California over the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge that left eight people dead, including five students and a teacher's aide at the local secondary school- back in February. Canada's privacy commissioner is investigating a data breach at a major online ID verification company. The Carney government kicked off the new Parliamentary session by tabling bill C-39, titled the "Act to Build a Strong Canada."

Alberta's unlikeliest duo is teaming up to make their case to Albertans ahead of the October 19 referendum. Rachel Notley and Jason Kenney, both from opposite sides of the political aisle have joined forces with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to propel their campaign, 'Alberta and Canada: Stronger Together' into the hearts and minds of concerned Albertans. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with the former Alberta premiers on their initiative to keep their province in Canada, how they've been brought together, and what economic challenges a separation could bring for Canadians from all corners of the political spectrum.

PLUS: Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre says Canada will never be part of the European Union, Montreal city council is set to debate a proposed bylaw this week that could ban people from insulting municipal employees and police officers, and Kerry-Lynne Findlay steps down as Conservative leader in B.C.

Camelott Hamblett is a 43-year-old Canadian man who's spent the last 20 years in isolation at Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care in Penetanguishene, Ont. His family has been advocating for the Ontario Review Board to reconsider his stay in isolation, as they believe it's not helping improve his quality of life. It's a similar case for 39 year-old Andrew Azevedo, who's spent the last five years in isolation as he lives with schizophrenia. Host Maria Kestane speaks with Jacques Gallant, courts and legal affairs reporter for the Toronto Star to discuss his four-part investigative series '20 Years in Isolation', and how Ontario's only maximum-security psychiatric facility is keeping patients in isolation without what seems like meaningful review.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show 'In This Economy?!'. The first Canadian Investment Summit is in the books – attended by some of the biggest names in the financial world like Larry Fink, the CEO of Blackrock, former UK chancellor George Osborne, and RBC CEO Dave McKay. Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed more than 220 people in the hopes of attracting 1 trillion dollars in new public and private investment over the next five years. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Jim Stanford, Economist and Director of the Centre Future Work about what kind of foreign capital Carney secured, and why Trump may have been paying close attention.

PLUS: A global airline industry group says it has some major concerns about Prime Minister Carney's plan to open up operations of Canada's four largest airports to privatization. Canadian auto parts mogul Frank Stronach will be sentenced on December 11th, but won’t face jail time. Canada has the potential to bolster Europe's energy security through the new alliance. The Royal Canadian Air Force has welcomed the first two of its new trainer aircraft, the C-T-1-5-7 Siskin two. it's the same planes that will replace the old Tutor jets flown by the Snowbirds aerial demonstration team.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has made history in Europe. On September 16th, he became the first foreign world leader to ever attend the State of the European Union address, delivered by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. During that address, von de Leyen invited Canada to become the first ever "associate member" of the EU. On the 17th, Carney himself addressed the European parliament, acknowledging the invitation, and expressing Canada's desire to become closer to Europe. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Dr. Kurt Hübner, professor in the European studies department at the University of British Columbia, about what it might mean to be an associate member, why Canada and the EU are reaching for each other, and what the future of Canada and Europe might be in the age of Donald Trump.

PLUS: 9-1-1 service across the country appears to be getting back to normal after intermittent outages were reported. A sentencing hearing will be held today for billionaire Canadian auto parts businessman Frank Stronach on the historical offence of indecent assault. The prospect of a referendum on Quebec sovereignty took centre stage last night as the leaders of the main political parties squared off for a second television debate ahead of the October provincial election. A documentary about the life and legacy of Rush drummer Neil Peart made its world premiere at TIFF.

Ottawa has confirmed plans to open up Canada’s four largest airports to private investment. It comes after Prime Minister Carney hosted some of the world's wealthiest business leaders, tech tycoons, and financiers in Toronto this past week at a chance at attracting foreign investment to fund Canadian projects. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Simon Enoch, a senior researcher with the Canadian Centre for Policy alternatives to discuss why privatization hasn't been proven to be successful according to efforts from other countries. She's then joined by Mark McQueen, a former adviser within former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney's office, to discuss why Canadians shouldn't write the plans off too soon.

PLUS: Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper delivered closing remarks at Canada's first-ever national investment summit - Premier Danielle Smith's office is blaming a split among Conservative votes along with a low overall turnout after a stunning NDP byelection win - The Canadian Real Estate Association says home sales in August were down - More acts are leaving Ed Sheeran's global tour after he kicked out fellow artist Macklemore.

Among the steel, aluminum, and auto sectors, Canada's softwood lumber industry has also fallen victim to US tariffs. But levies on Canadian lumber are nothing new, and neither are tensions between the two countries surrounding lumber exports. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Russ Taylor, a global wood business and market consultant, about the impact of tariffs on Canada's lumber sector, how the industry has long been a point of tension between our two nations, and what Canada can do to better support its wood business.

Plus: The New Democrats have taken a long-term Conservative stronghold with a byelection win in the Calgary-Shaw riding, the European Parliament is opening an office in Ottawa, and a tribute to Canadian actor Catharine O'Hara at the 78th Emmys.

The eastern Germany state of Saxony-Anhalt has elected far-right populist party, Alternative for Germany (AfD) in last week's election. The party was three seats shy of forming a majority, so they must now look to other parties to form a coalition, or poach individual outside members to join their party. Germany's domestic intelligence agency has classified the AfD as an extreme right group, shielded against entering mainstream politics by use of the country's firewall agreement. However, this victory puts the firewall at threat. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Jordan Leichnitz, Canada Director for the Friedrich Ebert Foundation to discuss the rise in far-right groups across Europe and how North American politics is affected by this election win.

Plus: The Canada investment summit is underway, new poll finds federal Liberals lead over Conservatives, Google is bringing age assurance tech to Canada, remembering George Chuvalo, and Canada's new sanctions on West Bank settlers.

Canada recently joined the UK and France in sanctioning all settler trade with the West Bank. In a joint-statement written by the three Prime Minister's, Israel's advancement of the E1 settlement, as well as the ongoing violence in the occupied strip jeopardizes the possibility of a two-state solution. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Jon Allen, the former Canadian ambassador to Israel and a senior fellow at the Bill Graham Centre for Contemporary International History at the University of Toronto. They discuss whether or not Israel could announce counter sanctions on Canada like they did with the UK, and how the Canada-Israel relationship has hit an all-time low.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" The trade dispute with the US rages on, our closest ally and for many decades, our closest trading partner. But it wasn’t always like that. Going back in history shows we’ve been in this position with the U-S before, and Canada found a way through without giving up our sovereignty. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Joy Nott, Partner - Trade & Customs with KPMG Canada – about the week that was and where the trade drama could go from here – with a few interesting history lessons along the way.

Plus: Commemoration ceremonies in the U.S. and Canada, Trump and Carney are talking, the Houthis capture a strategic island, and what happened to our attention spans?

Are you constantly checking your phone? Do you find it harder to concentrate for long periods of time? Or plan ahead? Us too. Executive function is the ability we have as humans to suppress basic instincts and desires for long term gain. It's why you can work every day when what you really want to do is stay home. The functions, though, seem to be on the decline more and more these days. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Adrian Owen, a professor of cognitive neuroscience and imaging at the University of Western Ontario, about the loss of executive function and how it's up to us to claim it back. Read Adrian's article here Executive Function Is in Short Supply - Macleans.ca

Plus: Ukraine's President is in Canada, Trump's pledge ahead of the midterms, August broke heat records, TIFF begins, and the age of technological imperialism.

Canadians have been keeping their elbows up for well over a year, but after logging on to Google Maps or Apple Maps and seeing 'Lake America' while in Canada, the feeling of despair doesn't seem too far fetched. Beit Facebook, Instagram, Google, X, Amazon, US tech giants take up lots of retail space within our digital presence, and sometimes they seem unescapable. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Vass Bednar, Managing Director at the the Canadian Shield Institute, about how the U.S. government can have global reach through control of the tech giants, something Bednar calls 'digital imperialism'.

Plus: A preview to fall, new iPhone unveiling, the most searched slang words, and Canada's digital defences are lagging. Now what?

Earlier this year, Ottawa announced a commitment towards ensuring digital sovereignty, but what exactly does that look like? More data centres? AI within more government sectors? Modernizing hospital and school board technology? Host Maria Kestane speaks to David Shipley, CEO and Co-founder of Beauceron Security to discuss how strengthening our cyber security will improve our digital defence, and how Canadians can show up in the fight for maintaining Canadian digital sovereignty.

Plus: A new report on threats facing Canadian children, a Canadian tourist rescued in Australia, Hawaii is under a state of emergency, and how economic hardship increases gender-based violence.

Numerous studies point to how times of economic hardship can lead to increased domestic violence, financial abuse, and gender-based violence. The COVID-19 pandemic, followed quickly by inflation, and now a economic trade war, the last few years have increasingly proven difficult for couples and families experiencing financial vulnerability. Host Catherine Jette is speaking with Anuradha Dugal, Executive Director of Women's Shelters Canada, to discuss the prevalence of economic abuse in Canada.

Enjoy this special feed drop from our sister show 'In This Economy?!' US President Trump is touting what he calls the biggest energy deal ever: a plan to gain control of Venezuela's massive oil reserves and boost Us energy supply. But is it fact, fiction, or political spin? Host Mike Eppel speaks to Tim Pickering, Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Auspice Capital. They dig into the claims, the impact of rising global oil prices, growing tensions in key energy markets, and what it all could mean for Canada.

Plus: A Nova Scotia cabinet minister resigns over decade-old rap lyrics, Quebec puts out nearly a million vaccine-laced raccoon baits to fight a rabies outbreak, Alberta expects record turnout for an upcoming referendum, and the fate of a Massachusetts women who claims postpartum psychosis led her to kill her children lies in the hands of a jury.

This episode contains discussion about suicide, death and the killing of children. Please take care. The fate of a 36 year-old, former nurse from Massachusetts is in the hands of a 9-women 3-men jury in a Plymouth courthouse who's been deliberating since last Friday. Lindsay Clancy admitted to killing her three children in January of 2023, but claims she was in a state of postpartum psychosis when she did it. Her defence argues she was misdiagnosed by the healthcare system and was not in her right mind, while the prosecution argues Clancy knew what she was doing. Host Maria Kestane is speaking to Michael Casey from the Associated Press, who's been covering the trial. They discuss the mood in and outside of the courthouse, the possibility for a mistrial, and how the case has expanded the conversation of maternal mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 for Canada's suicide hotline, or visit Postpartum Support International to be connected to resources for mothers.

Plus: the Carney government is making a landmark investment in manufacturing today, the NBA hands down severe punishments to the Clippers in the Kawhi Leonard investigation, feminist Gloria Steinem dies at 92, and a sovereigntist party could soon take power in Quebec amid the trade war with the U.S.

While many of us have been turning our eyes to Canada's west, or south of the border, Quebec began a high stakes provincial election last week. At a time where Canadian unity has never been more important, the sovereigntist Parti Québécois has been leading in the polls since 2023. But it's no guarantee. With five parties vying for seats, three of which consistently poll above 20%, it's an election that could turn any which way. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Éric Grenier, author of thewrit.ca and co-host The Numbers podcast, to take a look behind the numbers, what a sovereigntist government might mean for Canadian unity, and how much of a role U.S. President Trump might play in the campaign.

Plus: Quebec switches its paper ballots to French only for upcoming elections, a man is arrested on charges of causing around $100,000 in damage to Edmonton transit infrastructure, and a mysterious floating island reappears on a northern B.C. lake.

Things are not going well for the Conservative Party of British Columbia. Following Kerry-Lynne Findlay's win as leader earlier this summer after the ousting of John Rustad, there have been questions as to whether or not she's too far right for British Columbians. Since then, seven Conservative MLA's have decided their answer was yes, leaving the party to sit as independents, citing a lack of faith in Findlay's leadership. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Mo Amir, host of This is VANCOLOUR, about what led up to these latest events, what the seven newly independent MLA's plan on doing now, and whether or not Findlay can survive the losses.

Plus: The CBC is barred from attending the Republican Party’s midterm convention, international school trips across Canada are cancelled or tweaked amid a changing landscape, prayer room restrictions go into effect in Quebec, and what information do politicians owe the public regarding their health and ability to work?

US Senator Mitch McConnell hasn't been seen by the public in some 12 weeks. His last in-person sighting was in Washington, D.C. on June 11, before posting a proof-of-life picture from a rehabilitation centre in mid-July. He's since been discharged, but the details surrounding his whereabouts or return to the Senate remain unclear. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to New York Times Chief Washington Correspondent, Carl Hulse, to discuss what the conversation surrounding the Kentucky politician's whereabouts has been stateside. Then, she's joined by Wendy Parmet, a professor of law at Northeastern University to discuss what exactly - if anything - the public is owed in terms of information on a public figure's health and personal condition.

Plus: Oil prices surge after the U.S. and Iran trade strikes, voters head to the polls in three federal by-elections, Nepalese cultural festivals are cancelled across Canada following recent floods in Nepal, and immigration experts say more tracking is needed to ensure people on expired work and study permits leave the country.

In US President Trump's latest attempt at dominating Canada, an executive order was signed last week renaming Lake Ontario to 'Lake America'. Whether the new title will actually stick is up for debate, but several Canadian leaders, high-profile celebrities, and US officials have come out against the move. Those include PM Carney, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and former US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Rosemary Thompson, Senior VP of the Royal Canadian Geological Society to discuss what right (if any) an outside leader has on Canadian land titles and names, and if the Canada-US relationship has any chance at a comeback.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" Canadian small businesses are a big part of the economy. And like the rest of us, they're dealing with more tariffs as the trade war with the US heats up again, with Canadian counter tariffs set to take effect next month. It's the latest economic hit coming from south of the border, just as businesses were seeing a degree of recovery from the pandemic. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Brad Poulus, lecturer in the Entrepreneurship Department at The Ted Rogers School of Management at Toronto Metropolitan University. They discuss how these latest levies could hit small businesses, if the government is doing enough to help them, and if there are any potential new trade opportunities for them abroad.

Plus: B.C. lifts its province-wide state of emergency as local states of emergency remain, the first results are in for a program designed to bring professors from international universities to Canada, Alberta sees a budget surplus after months of spiking oil prices, Canadian actor Peter Cullen has died, and what will happen to a Russian cargo jet grounded in Toronto?

If you've driven by Toronto Pearson Airport at all in the past four years, you may have noticed the massive cargo jet with a big Russian flag on it just.... sitting there. It's been grounded ever since Canada closed its airspace to Russia following their invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russia has been trying to get the plane back from that moment-- but a judge recently ruled that it will stay right where it is. And besides, there are questions about whether or not the aircraft could still take to the skies. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with aviation expert John Gradek about what the government's plans for the plane are, and if holding it is worth doing at all.

Plus: The U.S. claims Canada was the one who introduced last-minute demands before trade talks fell apart, campaign season gets underway ahead of elections in Quebec, the B.C. Conservatives lose two more members, a study finds around half of Canadians didn’t receive respiratory vaccines last year, and why is gun ownership in Canada climbing?

Canadians have largely touted that one of our most distinctive attributes from the US is our gun culture, and while that's mostly true, the number of Canadian firearm licenses has reached record levels. The number of possession and acquisition license (PAL) holders in Canada now sits at close to 2.5 million, a number that's seen steady growth since 2021. With the growth of licenses comes the growth in interest, which isn't necessarily in line with the Canadian psyche. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Noah Schwartz, professor and author of Targeted: Citizenship, Advocacy, and Gun Control in Canada. They discuss how Canada's gun culture has evolved over recent years, why more people are interested in owning firearms, and how Ottawa can regulate a market that now includes 3-D printed paraphernalia.

Plus: Alberta’s premier voices concerns about the federal government’s tariff strategy, New Brunswick’s leader shuts down the idea of cutting off power to neighbouring Maine, the B.C. Conservatives lose their third MLA this month, and a Legionnaire’s outbreak that sickened several Toronto transit employees is traced back to the transit system’s cooling equipment.

When announcing Canada's withdrawal from US trade talks, Prime Minister Mark Carney admitted that both Canadians and Americans will feel the hurt in their pockets. Both countries have announced tariffs on a wide variety of goods, including toilet paper, feathers, fish and more. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced that Canada will also be providing up to $7.5B in relief for Canadian workers and businesses. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Trevor Tombe, professor and Director of Fiscal and Economic Policy at The School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary. They discuss which goods are getting hit with tariffs, and just how hard our tariffs will hurt American industries.

Plus: A man accused of stabbing two worshippers at a Sikh temple with a screwdriver was released from prison just a day earlier, a multibillion-dollar fleet of Coast Guard icebreakers will be built in Quebec, a Montreal airport worker is struck and killed by a plane, WestJet flight attendants approve their labour agreement, and could Ukraine hold elections with a years-long war still raging?

Ukraine's recently ousted Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedoro, called on President Zelenskyy to call for a wartime election. Following more than 4 years at war with Russia, the logistical details of a Ukrainian election remain murky. Would the vote be safe and secure? What are Zelensky's chances at being reelected? What role does the US and European allies play in guaranteeing security? Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Jars Balan, an expert in Ukrainian studies and the former director of the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies at the University of Alberta. They break down what lead to Fedoro's calls for an election mid-war, the potential domestic polarization an election could lead to, and whether or not security could be ensured.

Plus: Lightning storms disrupt flights and spark fires in B.C., a gathering in Saskatchewan marks the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6, WestJet flight attendants finish voting on a new labour agreement, and an anti-fraud organization sounds the alarm on scams targeting previous fraud victims.

Entering an economic war isn't your typical Friday night activity. But according to PM Mark Carney, it was necessary after the last 18 months of US President Trump. Not only did Carney suspend all negotiations with the US, he also announced dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs on US goods in response to the latest round of tariffs Trump placed on $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Lori Turnbull, political science professor from Dalhousie University to break down the latest update in the Canada-US trade war, what kind of response from Trump Canadians should expect, and how Canadians are interpreting Carney's act of defiance.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" The U.S. government has reached a staggering milestone: $40 trillion in debt. As deficits continue to grow and borrowing costs rise, bond investors are demanding higher yields, pushing long-term Treasury rates to their highest levels in decades. Host Mike Eppel speaks to Tiago Figueiredo, Macro Strategist at Desjardins Financial to discuss what's driving the bond market turmoil, how Washington is responding, and whether America's debt burden could become a bigger threat to markets and the broader economy.

Plus: The Alberta government faces jeers and expletives at town halls over a planned Meta data centre, the Boston Marathon says it will count qualifying times on the Edmonton course which was accidentally made two-thirds of a kilometre longer than normal but won’t adjust them to the standard marathon length, a caver is rescued using new radio technology, and the case for more “third spaces”.

What's your go-to place to unwind? It could be a local tavern, a neighbourhood coffee shop, even a park where the kids can runaround. In the digitally-saturated era we're currently living in, those third places aren't being occupied as much, as binging a show on the couch or doom scrolling in the car afterwork seem like the more convenient, economical option. But physical, third places are more important for social connection than we think. Host Catherine Jette speaks to Toronto Star columnist, Justin Ling to discuss the case for more third spaces and where Ottawa could look to for inspiration on incentives.

Plus: A Calgary police officer will be tried for murder after two suspects in a slow-speed chase were shot and killed, a survey finds almost a fifth of Quebec teachers consider quitting, WestJet is ordered to do away with a 300-pound weight limit on wheelchairs on most of its planes, and what makes Quebec and Newfoundland’s pending energy deal historic?

Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec announced a historic energy deal with help from Ottawa to replace a detested 1969 deal and a confusing 2024 MOU. The new agreement would see Quebec pay 1.8 cents per kilowatt-hour to Newfoundland and Labrador, with that price rising to 7.4 cents over the next 50 years. The deal, however, remains un-signed, amid a looming Quebec election, as well as an absent stamp of approval from Indigenous communities in each province. Host Maria Kestane speaks to François Bouffard, electrical engineering professor at McGill University to discuss what makes this new deal so important, and the history that precedes it.

Plus: A petition calls for the U.S. ambassador to Canada to be removed, Canadians seeking treatment for rare diseases face challenges, the summer wildfire season hits a historic milestone, a union in Vancouver takes action to delay a major infrastructure project, and OpenAI launches a chatbot designed specifically for teenagers.

A petition with more than 230,000 signatures continues to make its way across Canada in hopes of ousting the US Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. Signatories believe the diplomat has further strained Canada-US relations by adding fuel to President Trump's annexation threats, and allege he's made "repeated interventions in Canadian political discourse inconsistent with diplomatic protocol." Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Colin Robertson, a former Canadian diplomat and Fellow at the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. They discuss whether the petition could hold any weight in Parliament, and what Canadians want out of a potential replacement.

Plus: the Quebec election frontrunner shelves a sovereignty referendum until after the Trump presidency is over, the NBA spars with ESPN over its reporting on the L.A. Clippers investigation, a grizzly bear cub escapes from his enclosure at the Calgary Zoo, and why did Pope Leo excommunicate members of a traditionalist Catholic sect?

There has been a schism in the Catholic church. In early July, Pope Leo excommunicated an ultra-conservative sect known as the Society of St. Pius X, after they ordained new Bishops against his orders. It's the largest break in the church in 156 years. With its members and followers, Leo has effectively kicked out 600,000 Catholics-- a tough move by the still new Leo, who has made church unity a central theme of his pontificate. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Dr. Catherine Foisy, a professor of Christianity at the University of Quebec in Montreal about why the Pope made the move, what it says about the state of the Catholic Church, and what it says about how Pope Leo is approaching this geopolitical moment.

Plus: Statistics Canada says the annual rate of inflation accelerated to three per cent in July, Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to make an announcement about energy security regarding Churchill Falls, an autopsy is being performed following the death of television star Hayden Panettiere, new research shows the beneficial relationship between young teens struggling with anxiety and dog ownership, and how do we stop antisemitism on university campuses?

A new report commissioned by the federal government says antisemitism is a systemic problem on university and college campuses, adding post-secondary institutions have failed to address the problem. It finds more than 95% of Jewish students say they saw or experienced antisemitism last year, with nearly 18% of those incidents being from a faculty member. Overall, 70% of those Jewish students surveyed believe their school simply doesn't take antisemitism seriously. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with the study's lead author, Dr. Jack Jedwab, president and CEO of the Association for Canadian Studies and Metropolis Institute, about the findings, where the resurgence is coming from, what can be done to address the findings, and more.

Enjoy this special feed drop from our sister show "In This Economy?!" 2026 has certainly been a "headline driven" year for the markets. Whether it's A.I., war, tariffs and trade, or inflation and interest rates, the markets have seen big daily price swings, and several sectors have seen huge percentage run-ups for stocks—along with big losses. As of the first week of august, the TSX composite index, Dow Jones industrials average, and Nasdaq have all set record highs, up by on average 12% to 14% for the year, a respectable rate of return for money in an index fund. Host Mike Eppel speaks to Jordan Damiani, an investment advisor and certified financial planner at Meridian Credit Union, about being focused on the big picture, and why and how to keep calm and stay strategic with your investments instead of being distracted by the headlines and the flood of so called "finfluencers" on social media platforms.

Plus: Farage secures victory over Binface, some students protesting work permit denials face scrutiny over their current status in Canada, officials in B.C. say the public will still be able to access a Vancouver Island castle if it’s handed over to First Nations, some companies opt to weather the possible storm with more U.S. tariffs looming, and could Canada put American alcohol back on shelves to secure tariff relief?

Since almost the very beginning of the trade war, alcohol from the United States has been banned from most Canadian shelves. It was done as a way of putting pressure on the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump-- and it's worked. The so-called "booze ban" has been a constant irritant south of the border, hitting hard at states like California and Kentucky. But that soon could be coming to an end, with new reporting suggesting that Canada is willing to get rid of the ban in exchange for relief on some tariffs, as the deadline for new duties looms. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Kaylie Tiessen from the Canadian Shield Institute-- a thinktank that looks to grow Canadian economic leadership-- about the effectiveness of the bans, if they're worth giving up for relief, and more.

Plus: Canada and the U.S. continue to negotiate with new tariffs looming, the U.S. ambassador to Canada responds to a petition calling to kick him out of the country, four of the five former World Juniors players acquitted of sexual assault last summer will stay banned from Hockey Canada after they were found to have breached its code of conduct, three Moncton teens face charges after a boy was seen riding down a major street on the roof of a car, and why did tens of thousands of migrants surge into a Spanish exclave in North Africa?

On the northeastern tip of Morocco, just south of Gibraltar, the Spanish city Ceuta was recently overwhelmed by Moroccan migrants. At the end of last month, tens of thousands of Moroccans flooded border crossings, or tried to get around them by swimming in the Strait of Gibraltar. Dozens of people died in the attempt. Now, while the majority of the migrants have been returned to Morocco, hundreds, if not thousands, still remain in Ceuta, struggling to access food and water, while inflamed anti-immigrant sentiment tears at the fabric of the city, and European Union at large. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Gerald Knaus, President of the European Stability Initiative, about the crisis, what's behind it, and the political upheaval in Europe, as the far-right continues to make gains in major nations on the backs of anti-migration seeker sentiment.

Plus: Canada's top trade negotiator has a warning ahead of new impending tariffs, thousands of Canadians want Trump's trade rep to Canada removed from Ottawa, the federal government is ramping up funding to fight climate risks, Europe is set to experience a total solar eclipse, and Canada has a new "Highway of Tears" - used for sex trafficking.

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls have been a problem in Canada for decades, and one that went ignored for far too long. Going back to the late 60s, women and girls were taken especially along a stretch of road in British Columbia known as The Highway of Tears. But now, there is a new highway of tears. By tracking sex ads posted online, a team from Thompson Reuters was able to follow the routes traffickers used to move their victims from one end of the country to the next, following along some of Canada's busiest highways and airports. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with, Temur Durrani, a national correspondent for the Globe and Mail based out of Manitoba, who's done in-depth coverage of sex trafficking and the report, to break down the information, and learn what it might tell us about how to fight this criminal enterprise.

Plus: A Montreal father is found guilty of murdering his daughter in upstate New York, Alberta reviews its Amber Alert criteria following the death of a boy with autism, Environment Canada makes significant changes to its tornado warning system, auto thefts across Canada trend down toward pre-pandemic levels, and a youth mental health service says it’s seeing a spike in overnight calls.

This episode contains conversations about mental health, suicide, and sexual assault. Please take care. Kids Help Phone, a service offering free, mental health service over the phone or online to youth across Canada, has had a spike in overnight calls-- the most dramatic increase in their more than three-decade history. The reasons are various, but the need is great, putting strain on the service's volunteer force. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Rebecca Shields, President and CEO of Kids Help Phone, about the spike they've seen, what's driving it, how they're handling it, and more.

Plus: Montreal’s police chief plans to provide an update on a patrol unit that disbanded in June over serious allegations, the Conservative leader writes a letter to the Prime Minister on the response to tariffs from the U.S., a toddler grounds a flight in Victoria, football officials push for heavier consequences for FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and investigative genetic genealogy is used to charge a suspect in a decades-old murder case in Toronto.

It's taken Toronto Police more than 20 years to charge a suspect in the murder of Patrick Santos, a 21 year old Scarborough man that was found zip-tied and duck taped in his home in 2006. Investigative genetic genealogy was able to match the DNA sample taken from the crime scene to that of Pierre O'Connor, a Hamilton man who had no previous criminal record. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Fil Martino, co-host of Tracking a killer, to dig into the details of the 20 year-old cold case. Then she's joined by Steen Hartsen, a faculty member of the British Columbia Institute of Technology to learn more about genetic genealogy - including its ethical risks.

Enjoy this special feed drop from our sister show "In This Economy?!" OpenAI recently went rogue, hacking into an AI start-up in a matter of hours. It stunned some – even those in the tech industry – but it also opened the door to a series of new questions as companies and consumers rely more and more on the technology. Host Kris McCusker gets some perspective on what it really means from Charles Findlay, Executive Director of the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Plus: Meta is ordered to pay hundreds of millions of dollars after it was found liable for contributing to the mental health crisis in children, new salary cap circumvention allegations against the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard, a study finds a type of transmissible cancer in catfish may be more widespread than previously thought, and why are so many Canadian workers leaving some of their paid time off unused?

When was the last time you took a day off? Went on vacation? Gave yourself an extra-long weekend? If it's been a while, well, you're not alone. A recent survey showed that 4 in 10 Canadians aren't using all the personal time off they're allowed from their job. And in doing so, essentially giving themselves a pay-cut, otherwise known as paying the "time-off tax." It's certainly not that people don't like vacations, so why aren't people taking full advantage of all the time they can get? Host Catherine Jette is speaking with Emily Durham, author and host of the careers podcast "Clock In", about time-off tax, the workplace cultures that can cultivate it, how employers can actually lose out too, and more.

Plus: Canada establishes a registry to track foreign influence, WestJet flight attendants’ union shares details of its new deal with the airline, Prime Minister Mark Carney suggests his government’s shutdown of plans to allow jets at a downtown Toronto airport may not be a permanent rejection, a multi-million-dollar contract is awarded to build a laboratory in Winnipeg that will prepare for future disease outbreaks, and why are ads for full body MRIs everywhere despite a lack of support for the procedure from top medical associations?

Perhaps you've heard one on the radio, or got one before a video online, or maybe even seen one on transit, but ads for full-body MRIs are everywhere these days. They tell you to book an appointment, selling it as a preventative measure to catch something early. But it's not something that's actually recommended by any medical association—anywhere. So why have they become so popular? Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Dr. Matt Davenport, Service Chief and Vice Chair in the Department of Radiology and a professor at the University of Michigan about what a full body MRI actually is, it's potential value and harms, and if it's something that you should actually consider getting.

Plus: An Ontario city deals with the impact of historic floods, wildfire damage in B.C. is assessed with hot days in the forecast, Canadians look at cutting back their insurance to save money in the short term, and how will Israel and Hamas resolve their stalemate on the road to peace in Gaza?

US President Trump touted about a 'great breakthrough' in a deal to bring peace to Gaza, although the two main characters in the fight seem to remain in a deadlock on who moves first. Hamas says Israel will have to withdraw forces before they disarm, meanwhile Israel says Hamas needs to disarm before they withdraw. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Nader Hashemi, a professor of Middle East politics at Georgetown University to discuss what's at stake for the Palestinian territory should the militant group disarm, and the future of Israel just a few months out from its national election.

Plus: A Canadian astronaut gets ready to head to the International Space Station, a closed Ontario theme park ships more whales to the U.S., two flight school planes collide midair in B.C., and could the FIFA president’s failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup end his tenure as the most powerful man in soccer?