The Current

CBC journalist Justin McElroy discusses his year-long journey traveling through 52 countries in 52 weeks, a project undertaken as a sabbatical from pandemic reporting. He shares details about the logistical planning involving spreadsheets and trains, his experiences with nature and global landmarks, and how the trip provided a profound connection to the world. Reflecting on the emotional impact of the journey, McElroy discusses attending a Taylor Swift concert, visiting the Great Wall of China, and traveling through Australia and New Zealand. He shares insights on solo travel, culinary adventures, and how observing daily life across 52 countries provided a sense of global optimism.

A Fifth Estate investigation into the alleged financial and physical abuse of Dorilia Licorice, an elderly Toronto woman. The report explores how tenants allegedly manipulated her dementia to gain power of attorney and control her estate, leading to her isolation and eventual death from a severe, untreated stage four bedsore. The episode examines the potential legal negligence of her caregivers and the failure of law enforcement to recognize criminal exploitation. It further addresses the broader systemic vulnerabilities and lack of preparedness in Canada's healthcare infrastructure regarding the growing risk of elder abuse.

This episode examines the legislative struggle surrounding Bill S-15, the Jane Goodall Act, which sought to protect large animals like elephants from captivity in Canada. Through interviews with filmmaker Fern Leavitt and expert Scott Blair, the discussion explores the physical and psychological cruelty inherent in zoo environments. The podcast further investigates the trauma caused by separating elephant families and the success of sanctuaries in providing rehabilitation through autonomy. It also addresses the significant logistical, political, and institutional challenges involved in moving animals from zoos to sanctuaries.

Award-winning chef Jessica Roswell discusses her recognition as the best female chef of 2026 and her nonprofit project, Roots, which provides training for migrant women in Modena. She reflects on her culinary journey from Montreal to Italy, her philosophy of leading with humility, and how seasonal Italian ingredients form the foundation of her work.

Journalist Evan Gershkovich discusses his arrest by the Russian FSB, his time in Lefortovo Prison, and the release of his memoir. He reflects on his dual Russian-American identity, the political climate in Russia, and the surreal experience of being used as a pawn in a high-stakes prisoner swap. Gershkovich details the psychological toll of incarceration, the complexities of the negotiations involving Vadim Krasikov, and his eventual release. The episode also explores the difficulty of interviewing Vladimir Putin, focusing on Putin's vision of Russian greatness through territorial expansion and the country's future role in the global AI race.

This episode examines the expansion of a massive Bell Canada AI data center in Saskatchewan, which has triggered local protests regarding land use, environmental impact, and transparency. The report explores the tension between large-scale industrial development and community concerns. The discussion further delves into the strategic importance of establishing domestic AI compute capacity to ensure Canadian digital sovereignty and protect against geopolitical vulnerabilities. It also addresses how proactive community benefit agreements are necessary to mitigate public opposition to such infrastructure.

In this episode of The Current, host Matt Galloway discusses the urgent need to scale up practice-ready assessments for internationally trained physicians in Canada. Featuring retired Senator Ratna Ahluwalia, the conversation highlights the success of Nova Scotia's PACE program, which significantly reduces the time required for foreign-trained doctors to obtain medical licenses. Ahluwalia proposes a national strategy called 'Need for Speed' to address the primary care crisis by increasing the supply of assessors and creating standardized clinical assessment facilities. The discussion emphasizes that while the fear regarding foreign-trained doctors has diminished, the system requires more coordinated funding and infrastructure to transform the current trickle of new physicians into a steady stream to meet Canada's healthcare security needs.

This episode follows the story of Bruce Mayo, a Canadian military lawyer and veteran diagnosed with glioblastoma after serving at the secret Camp Mirage in the UAE. Despite finding evidence from the U.S. Veterans Administration linking Southwest Asia service to higher GBM rates, Bruce's initial claims for benefits were repeatedly denied by Veterans Affairs Canada. After a successful appeal to the Veterans Review and Appeal Board, Bruce secured his benefits, yet he remains critical of a system that requires such intense advocacy. He highlights the tragic reality that many veterans may pass away before they can build a case strong enough to achieve recognition.

This episode explores the possibility of ending homelessness in Canada, featuring insights from St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston and Dr. Andrew Bazzari. The discussion highlights successful local initiatives like the 'Dunhouse' model and emphasizes that homelessness is a solvable problem through intergovernmental cooperation and integrated health and housing services. The conversation also examines the economic and moral implications of homelessness, transitioning to an interview with Manitoba's Minister of Housing, Bernadette Smith. Minister Smith discusses Manitoba's strategy to end chronic homelessness by 2031, focusing on the importance of 'housing first' models and wraparound supports.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, Matt Galloway interviews author Chris Jones about his memoir, 'Legs, Hearts, Minds, Loss and Its Remedies'. Jones discusses the traumatic discovery of his wife's infidelity in 2016, his struggles with anger and masculinity, and his personal history with depression and suicidal ideation. Jones also shares his journey through mental health struggles, therapy, and finding connection through Burnley football club. He reflects on the importance of vulnerability and how he uses the 'legs, hearts, minds' philosophy to navigate life's challenges.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the unfolding controversy surrounding NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang. Following reports of an affair with a woman alleged by American intelligence agencies to be a Chinese spy, the company has launched an internal investigation into potential security compromises. The discussion delves into the geopolitical implications of the relationship, the influence of Huang on U.S. AI policy, and his close ties to the Trump administration. Reporter Ian Duncan provides insight into the immense power Huang wields within the semiconductor industry and the potential economic instability that could follow a leadership crisis at NVIDIA. The conversation also examines the broader competition between the United States and China regarding AI chip exports and the strategic importance of maintaining technological dominance.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews Samantha Nutt, a Canadian physician and president of War Child Canada, following her recent three-week trip to Sudan. Nutt provides a firsthand account of the devastating impact of the civil war in Sudan, describing Khartoum as a post-apocalyptic ghost town and detailing the immense scale of displacement and famine facing millions. The conversation explores why this humanitarian crisis remains largely overlooked by the international community compared to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Nutt discusses the critical shortage of humanitarian funding, the impact of drone warfare on civilians, and the importance of maintaining educational spaces for children. She also addresses the geopolitical complexities involving Canada's trade relations with the UAE and the broader implications of global indifference toward African conflicts. The episode serves as a call to action for increased attention and support for the Sudanese people.

This episode explores the complexities of open drug use and changing prosecution guidelines in Canada, highlighting how shifts in federal policy have led to fewer charges for possession. The discussion examines the tension between treating drug use as a health issue versus a criminal one and its impact on public safety. Chief Fiona Wilson discusses the challenges of the drug decriminalization pilot project in British Columbia, noting that the lack of authority to intervene in public consumption led to community concern and confusion. She emphasizes that while addiction should be approached as a health crisis, police must still address public disorder and the dangers of an increasingly toxic illicit drug supply through a multifaceted approach.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway and reporter Carissa Duncan discuss the systemic issues facing Canadian sport, following a report that describes the country's sports system as broken and unsustainable. The discussion covers themes of abuse, lack of accountability, and the financial barriers to participation, such as high athlete fees and crumbling infrastructure. The segment also explores Australia as a potential model for reform, highlighting the success of the Australian Sports Commission and the importance of integrating sport into national identity. The conversation concludes by emphasizing that while structural changes and funding are necessary, addressing the underlying culture of sport is the most significant challenge facing Canada.

Host Matt Galloway interviews Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen about his recent mission to the moon and his new book, 'Earthrise'. Hansen discusses his journey from childhood inspirations to the technical and emotional realities of spaceflight, including managing uncertainty through a mental mantra and communicating mission risks to his family. The conversation explores profound themes of human connection, reflecting on a transformative vision quest experience and the importance of teamwork. Hansen also shares how the Artemis II mission served as a catalyst for global engagement and how the crew utilized open communication to rebuild team dynamics and foster vulnerability.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the shifting political landscape between Silicon Valley and Washington D.C. following recent election cycles. Featuring Addie Robinson, senior editor for tech and policy at The Verge, the discussion examines whether Big Tech's heavy financial support for Donald Trump and the Republican platform was a strategic miscalculation in light of upcoming Democratic control in Congress. The conversation delves into the specific regulatory interests of tech giants, including the push to avoid AI regulation and the growing bipartisan backlash against data center development. The episode also addresses recent controversies surrounding NVIDIA's CEO and the broader implications of corporate influence on national security and governance.

This episode explores Nova Scotia's initiative to address the primary care crisis through the PACE Clinic assessment program. The discussion features Dr. Hadi Javahiri, an internationally trained physician who shares his journey of navigating the licensing process after moving from Iran. The conversation delves into how the PACE program accelerates the integration of foreign-trained doctors by focusing on clinical performance and real-time patient care. The segment also highlights the program's impact on community health, the emotional significance for physicians returning to their professions, and the potential for this scalable model to be implemented across other Canadian provinces.

This episode explores the recent surge in popularity of Canadian artisan cheeses in the United States, contrasted against the severe economic threat posed by a 50% U.S. tariff on Canadian imports. While Canada's supply management system contributes to high milk quality and stable family farms, the current trade climate is creating significant instability for exporters. The discussion highlights the devastating impact of these tariffs on specific producers, such as Ontario's Mariposa Dairy. As distributors and producers are forced to absorb rising costs to maintain market placement, the industry faces a critical period where the long-term sustainability of Canadian cheese exports to the U.S. is at risk.

Host Matt Galloway discusses the Canadian federal budget, focusing on themes of economic growth, affordability, and national sovereignty. The episode features interviews with political correspondent Rosemary Barton and Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne regarding the implications of increased spending and rising national debt. Minister Champagne defends the government's economic strategy, highlighting an 'investment super cycle' aimed at driving productivity. The discussion also covers healthcare funding, measures to address grocery costs, and the government's goal to end homelessness within a decade.

Host Matt Galloway interviews Chris Fletcher, chair of the Department of Geography and Environmental Management at the University of Waterloo, to discuss the emergence of a super El Nino event. The discussion explores the mechanics of how warming in the equatorial Pacific Ocean influences global climate patterns, specifically regarding the unseasonably warm temperatures recently observed in Canadian cities like Toronto and Ottawa. The conversation delves into the potential impacts of this phenomenon on Canada's winter season, including forecasts for warmer than average temperatures across the country. Fletcher highlights the serious implications for industries such as tourism, transportation, and agriculture, noting that reduced snowfall could affect water resource management and natural defenses against wildfires.

This episode of The Current Podcast discusses the controversial ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) that allows Russian hockey teams to compete in international competitions again, following a ban implemented after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The discussion focuses on the tension between international sporting regulations and the political stance taken by the Canadian government. Host Matt Galloway interviews Chris Johnson, a senior writer at The Athletic, regarding the implications of this ruling for upcoming tournaments like the World Junior Men's Hockey Championship in Alberta. The conversation explores Canada's decision to prohibit Russian and Belarusian teams from competing on Canadian soil despite the CAS ruling, and the potential long-term impact on international hockey federations and future global tournaments.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the plight of the marbled murrelet, an at-risk seabird known as the 'flying potato' that nests in the old-growth forests of Vancouver Island. Through an interview with Royanne Petrel, co-founder of Old Growth Birders and BioBlitzers, the program examines the delicate ecosystem of these ancient forests and the specific biological needs of this secretive species. The conversation delves into the environmental threats facing the bird, including habitat loss due to logging and the lack of a provincial Endangered Species Act in British Columbia. Beyond the ecological data, the episode captures the emotional connection between conservationists and the natural world. Petrel shares personal stories of discovery and the profound sense of hope found in community activism, such as the annual Marbled Murrelet Day. The discussion highlights the tension between industrial forestry management and the urgent need for biodiversity preservation in Canada's remaining old-growth habitats.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the unprecedented surge in Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank during the recent olive harvest. Senior international correspondent Margaret Evans reports from London on how escalating aggression, characterized by attacks on groves and physical assaults on Palestinian families, has forced harvesters to alter their traditional practices out of fear for their safety. The discussion covers the lack of legal accountability for settlers, the role of the Israeli military in protecting outposts, and the political landscape in Israel following recent elections. Evans details the profound impact on Palestinian daily life, including the psychological pressure of new infrastructure and the sense of hopelessness among a generation facing increasing restrictions on movement and land access.

This episode explores the rise of online sports betting in Canada, focusing on how aggressive advertising impacts addiction and mental health. An investigative reporter discusses the expansion of private operators in provinces like Ontario and the potential legislative efforts to regulate gambling advertisements. Matthew Young, chief research officer at Griot Evidence Insights, discusses the lack of impact monitoring following large-scale gambling policy changes in Canada. He highlights the risks of unregulated advertising and the potential for widespread public health harms if federal coordination and independent research funding are not established.

Political strategists John Fury and Michael Hardaway analyze the aftermath of a recent election, examining the Republican defeat and the unexpected scale of Democratic victories. The discussion covers potential legislative battles over tariffs and war powers, as well as the internal ideological struggles facing both parties. The speakers also explore the disconnect between divisive social media rhetoric and the pragmatic need for compromise in Washington regarding the economy, healthcare, and the budget. They conclude by addressing Republican concerns over Democratic policies and the potential impact of recent election results on American stability and international relations.

This episode examines the political aftermath of a major U.S. midterm election where Democrats projected control of both the House and the Senate during Donald Trump's second term. Political journalists analyze key shifts in states such as Texas, Maine, and Michigan, debating whether the results represent a rejection of Trump or a broader movement for the Democratic party. The discussion further explores the internal factional debates within the Democratic Party between progressives and centrists following recent results in Michigan. Additionally, the panel investigates the future of the Republican Party under Trump's influence and the potential impact of his 'lame duck' period on the 2028 presidential race.

Host Matt Galloway interviews Lisa Raitt, a former Conservative Cabinet Minister and member of the Prime Minister's Advisory Committee on Canada-U.S. Economic Relations, regarding the implications of the U.S. midterm elections for Canada. The discussion explores how the Democratic takeover of Congress may impact trade tensions, specifically concerning Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum and the broader stability of Canada-U.S. economic relations. Raitt analyzes the rise of the independent voter in the United States and the potential for a shift in political strategy as the Trump administration faces a divided government. The conversation covers the complexities of negotiating trade deals, the risk of asymmetrical tariffs, and whether the fundamental trust between the two nations can be restored following years of geopolitical volatility.

Tenzin Selden, founder of the Pulse Fund and GDR Institute, discusses her transition from witnessing climate impacts in the Himalayas to investing in climate technology. She introduces Gross Domestic Regeneration (GDR), a new scoring system designed to complement GDP by measuring ecological, social, and capital regeneration through multiplication rather than averaging. The conversation explores how integrating capital with environmental goals is essential for driving scalable innovation and protecting the global bottom line. The segment also examines how metrics like GDR can help countries like Canada protect natural wealth while pursuing economic growth, emphasizing the importance of focusing on climate solutions and financial returns to combat climate grief.

In this interview, photographer Edward Burtynsky discusses how his experiences in the mining industry and witnessing large-scale industrial processes shaped his neutral photographic style. He explores the fundamental link between urban civilization and industrial resource extraction, documenting the massive scale of human industry without being overtly political. Burtynsky also reflects on the ethical dilemmas of documenting industrial landscapes, from the dangerous working conditions in Bangladesh ship-breaking yards to the staggering scale of manufacturing in China. He emphasizes the urgent need for increased mineral extraction required to achieve a net-zero energy transition.

This episode explores the personal and medical complexities of stuttering through the stories of Alexandra D'Agostino-Sagan and her mother, Ava Stierwalt. Featuring insights from Dr. Gerald Maguire, the discussion delves into the neurological and genetic roots of the disorder and the importance of multi-faceted treatments. The conversation also covers Alexandra's journey toward confidence through community support, the need for better medical training to recognize stuttering as a brain-based condition, and how coexisting conditions like social anxiety impact those who stutter. The episode concludes with practical advice on respectful interaction and reflections on how hormonal changes can affect speech.

This episode explores the growing threat of cyberattacks on global food infrastructure, using recent attacks on European grocery chains—where hackers manipulated cooling systems to spoil food—as a cautionary tale. Security expert Stephanie Sabatini and professor Evan Fraser discuss the inherent vulnerabilities in internet-connected industrial control systems and the specific risks facing Canada's critical food supply chain. The discussion highlights an ongoing 'arms race' in the agricultural sector, where the adoption of digital security practices is lagging behind the increasing frequency and sophistication of attacks. The speakers emphasize the need for collective cybersecurity efforts to prevent consequences ranging from widespread misinformation to significant food safety tragedies.

This episode explores how US-Canada trade tensions and tariffs are serving as key wedge issues in the Michigan and Maine midterm elections. Reporters Lauren Gibbons and Kirby Wilson explain how these policies impact local industries like automotive and agriculture, while also touching on recent political shifts such as a surprising endorsement in Michigan. The discussion further examines upcoming election dynamics, focusing on polling that favors Democratic candidates and the impact of economic issues like tariffs. The speakers also explore how potential shifts in Congressional control could influence trade negotiations and protectionist policies regarding manufacturing.

Following the first Israeli general election since the October 7th attacks, the nation faces a period of intense political uncertainty. With neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition nor opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot's bloc securing the 61 seats required to form a government, the path toward stability remains unclear. The episode explores the various negotiation scenarios currently unfolding in Jerusalem, including the potential for minority governments, unity coalitions, or the possibility of another round of elections. The discussion delves into the shifting dynamics of the Israeli electorate, noting record-high voter turnout and the significant influence of Arab-led parties which now hold 19 seats. Correspondent Emily Rose provides insights into the public's perception of leadership, the role of the Israeli president in mediating party mandates, and the underlying tensions regarding crime rates and allegations of foreign interference in the electoral process.

In this interview, author Zadie Smith discusses her views on the purpose of art, the impact of technology on attention, and the decline of reading literacy. She explores how modern convenience and AI challenge human agency, while also expressing optimism about the creativity found in contemporary pop music. Smith further examines the impact of digital culture on music and literature, noting how streaming benefits music education while the 'endless scroll' of the internet harms reading habits. She also reflects on the concept of human limits in the age of AI, her personal reflections on aging as a novelist, and the importance of being present in community.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews chronobiologist Patricia Lakin-Thomas regarding the recent shifts in Canadian time zones and the physiological implications of daylight saving time. As parts of Canada move to permanent daylight saving while others revert to standard time, the discussion explores the tension between the 'social clock' and our internal biological rhythms. Lakin-Thomas explains how misalignment between sunlight and social schedules can lead to chronic health issues, including increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even impacts on academic performance in children. The conversation also touches upon the concept of ideal time zones based on longitude and the potential for political 'buyer's remorse' as regions adjust to darker winter mornings.

This episode explores the shifting political and social landscape of Texas ahead of the 2026 midterms, examining deep ideological divides in both urban and rural communities. From the high-stakes Democratic strategy in Austin to the Republican challenges in rural areas, the discussion highlights a state at a crossroads regarding economic power and legislative control. The report also investigates the rapid expansion of data centers across Texas, weighing the promised economic benefits for cities like Temple against local environmental and lifestyle concerns. Finally, the episode delves into the human impact of immigration enforcement in South Texas, featuring personal accounts of life under monitoring and the broader implications of political rhetoric on civil liberties and community cohesion.

This episode introduces the second season of 'The Assembly,' a CBC series where neurodivergent interviewers engage celebrity guests with deeply personal and uninhibited questions. The discussion explores how the show's unique format fosters authentic vulnerability, human connection, and empathy through its interviewing style. The speakers further examine the emotional depth present in the series, using specific examples to illustrate how the show creates a safe space for connection. Additionally, the episode addresses criticisms regarding the representation of neurodivergent people, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and autonomy for all participants.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Catherine Cullen interviews Sam Levine, the commissioner of New York City's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, regarding a proposed crackdown on AI customer service chatbots. The discussion explores the frustrations of the 'chatbot doom loop,' where automated systems fail to resolve complex consumer issues like billing discrepancies or subscription cancellations. Levine details a new regulatory proposal that would mandate an easy 'off-ramp' to human representatives and hold companies liable for inaccurate information provided by their AI. The conversation touches on the broader implications of these technologies, including potential impacts on consumer costs and the high stakes involved when automated systems fail during critical financial or travel situations.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Catherine Cullen interviews economist Eric Morris to explore the disconnect between positive macroeconomic indicators and the widespread feeling of economic hardship among Americans. While data shows robust GDP growth and a strong labor market, consumer sentiment is at historic lows. The discussion delves into the drivers behind this disparity, including the impact of inflation, political environments, and the 'K-shaped' recovery driven by asset ownership. Morris also addresses the potential consequences of wealth tax proposals in California and the long-term influence of political shifts on the broader economic trajectory.

This episode of The Current Podcast features an interview regarding the Canada-EU summit held in Montreal. Host Catherine Cullen speaks with Stéphane Dion, former Canadian special envoy to the EU, and Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice President for the European Commission, about the evolving diplomatic and economic relationship between Canada and the European Union. The discussion focuses on the ambiguity surrounding the 'associate member' title for Canada, the strategic importance of diversifying trade away from reliance on the United States, and the potential for deeper cooperation in areas such as digital trade, critical minerals, and defense. The guests also address the political implications of provincial involvement, specifically regarding Quebec's role in the summit.

Dr. Joanne Liu, former international president of MSF, discusses the impact of 'security obsession' on humanitarian aid and her experiences during the Ebola epidemic. She recounts the emotional and political complexities surrounding the US airstrike on a Kunduz hospital and her direct communication with President Barack Obama. Dr. Liu also addresses the challenges of humanitarian work, focusing on the impunity surrounding attacks on medical facilities and the importance of MSF's financial independence in allowing them to bear witness. She reflects on the devastating impact of migration crises and expresses a belief in grassroots agency as a source of hope for making incremental global changes.

Anthropic, the AI company behind the Claude chatbot, is preparing for a major initial public offering that could potentially surpass the record-breaking SpaceX IPO. The episode explores the financial motivations behind the move, including the massive capital requirements for compute infrastructure and the need to reward employees in a highly competitive talent market. While the company has reported significant year-on-year revenue growth, it also faces substantial net losses and complex risks. The discussion delves into the profound tension between corporate profitability and existential safety concerns. The company's S1 filing outlines extreme risk factors, ranging from potential misuse for bioweapons to liabilities that could exceed the capacity of the entire insurance industry. As the first major standalone AI lab to go public, Anthropic's performance will serve as a critical litmus test for the broader AI industry and its long-term economic sustainability.

This episode features an interview with a mother, Amber, regarding her eight-year-old daughter's struggle with obesity exacerbated by medications for ADHD and autism. The discussion explores the complexities of accessing GLP-1 drugs for children and the medical challenges of managing weight in neurodiverse youth. The conversation further examines the individualized approach required for pediatric care, specifically regarding the use of GLP-1 agonists. A pediatric endocrinologist discusses the importance of monitoring growth parameters, the complexities of weight regain after stopping medication, and the necessity of interdisciplinary monitoring to manage risks.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Catherine Cullen interviews Alex Dabani, a creativity researcher at McMaster University, regarding the scientific link between walking and creative thinking. Drawing on a meta-analysis of 23 studies, Dabani explores how physical activity influences divergent thinking—the ability to generate novel ideas—and discusses the physiological and psychological mechanisms behind this connection. The conversation delves into the distinction between convergent and divergent thinking, the impact of environmental factors like indoor versus outdoor walking, and the potential negative effects of smartphone use on mind-wandering. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of maintaining individual creativity and personal expression in an increasingly automated world.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Catherine Cullen interviews award-winning journalist Sally Armstrong about her recent reporting from Lebanon. Armstrong describes the devastating impact of ongoing conflict on children, detailing their experiences in shelters, the psychological toll of constant drone surveillance, and the displacement caused by airstrikes. The conversation explores the broader breakdown of international law and the long-term consequences for those living in war zones. The discussion extends to the resilience of youth, the work of organizations like Save the Children, and the global rise in state-based conflicts. Armstrong calls for greater accountability from world powers and discusses the importance of individuals standing up to demand adherence to international conventions and human rights.

This episode explores shifting public attitudes toward immigration in Canada and the economic debate surrounding its use to address labor shortages. The discussion features insights from Andrew Parkin on changing survey data, economist Mikhail Skuderud on prioritizing human capital over specific occupation gaps, and Dan Kelly on the utility of immigration for small businesses. The conversation further examines the impact of federal immigration cuts on Canadian small businesses and local labor markets. The speaker argues that while immigration can help address labor shortages, recent policy changes have made it difficult for employers in sectors like hospitality and personal care to access necessary workers.

This episode of The Current Podcast explores the intense debate surrounding AI-powered automated license plate readers (ALPRs), such as Flock cameras, in the United States and Canada. The discussion weighs significant privacy concerns regarding the retrospective tracking of movements without warrants against evidence suggesting the technology's effectiveness in reducing crimes like auto theft. The episode also examines the political backlash against these cameras, noting opposition from both left-wing activists and libertarian conservatives. While acknowledging the risks of surveillance abuse, the conversation explores how proper regulation, audits, and accountability measures could potentially make policing more precise and humane.

This episode analyzes the aftermath of the British Columbia election, where Lauren Dirksen's Conservative Party secured a decisive victory over the NDP. Reporters examine the factors behind the NDP's defeat, including voter fatigue and the rise of Dirksen's 'authentic' leadership style. The discussion also explores the significant political and economic hurdles facing the new government, such as a massive provincial deficit and challenges regarding pipeline projects and the repeal of DRIPA. Additionally, the speakers address the difficulty of maintaining caucus unity and managing reconciliation efforts in the wake of the election.

Host Catherine Cullen speaks with Jackie Pilon, who discusses her experience of being 're-diagnosed' after living with an MS diagnosis for over two decades. The episode also explores the complexities of diagnosing multiple sclerosis, noting that misdiagnosis rates are estimated between 10% and 20%. Dr. Jiwon Oh discusses the evolving understanding of MS, including environmental, genetic, and viral factors like Epstein-Barr, as well as new diagnostic tools and the importance of clinical re-evaluation.

Following a preview of CBC's October podcast lineup, space architect Ariel Ekblasi discusses her work at the Aurelia Institute, focusing on developing modular, self-assembling in-space infrastructure like 'Tesserae' tiles to create large-scale habitats in orbit. The conversation explores how space technology can benefit life on Earth through biotechnology and energy solutions, including the potential for off-worlding heavy industry to reduce Earth's environmental footprint. Ekblasi also reflects on how her background in philosophy and humanism shapes her vision for space exploration. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a meaningful human role alongside advancing AI and discusses the symbolic meaning behind the Aurelia Institute's name, representing humanity's metamorphosis into a spacefaring species.