The Big Story

The Toronto Blue Jays have punched their ticket to the World Series, a feeling the team - and Toronto at large - haven't felt for 32 years.But it isn't just Southern Ontario that's feeling the pride of the Boys of Summer. Fans from all across Canada are beaming for what's now being called 'Canada's Team', as the team gears up to host the Los Angeles Dodgers on home turf in just a few days time. But the arrival of the Dodgers is a reminder of who the Jays are, and who they aren't, which is a team not easily wavered by big names or even bigger franchise payrolls. Host Alex Seixeiro speaks to the host of Blue Jays Radio Broadcast on Sportsnet, Shoaib Alli, to break down what it means for the Jays to take baseball's biggest stage, and the impact of a mostly international roster playing for the more than 41 million Canadians counting on them. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

More than 750,000 Alberta students have been spending the better part of October not in a classroom, but rather left to their own devices as a historic province-wide teachers strike heads into a third week.Although higher wages and increased staffing are among the key sticking points for the Alberta Teachers Association (ATA), the thousands of educational workers currently on the picket lines are looking for a generational change across the province's education sector. However, the Smith government doesn't seem to be budging on how far they want to reach into their pockets, with the Premier even considering ordering a back-to-work if kids aren't back in the classrooms by the time the legislature returns.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Sean Amato, Alberta politics reporter for CityNews to break down what the last few weeks have looked like during the province's first ever teacher strike, and how close the ATA is to getting what they're fighting for. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It won't be a quiet four-month quest for Bad Bunny to return to the Super Bowl stage, this time as the halftime show headliner.U.S. President Donald Trump, his affiliates and America's Republican diaspora have gone full-fledge meltdown over the global superstar being tapped to perform on one of the world's biggest stages. They've even gone as far as attempting to create their version of an 'all American' halftime show - organized by Charlie Kirk's Turning Point USA. But the Puerto Rican native seems to be taking the flack in stride, making light of the hate during an SNL opening monologue, warning Americans they only have four months to learn Spanish, which is the only language the performance will be done in.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Julyssa Lopez, Deputy Music Editor at Rolling Stone to discuss why MAGA has its eye on Bad Bunny, and how the messages of government officials and MAGA-adjacent figures play into the 'othering' of Puerto Ricans and Hispanic culture at large. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Almost a year after an avian flu outbreak was detected on an ostrich farm in rural British Columbia, the fate of the flock remains in the crosshairs of a culture war over public health policy.Plans to euthanize the remaining birds by Canadian authorities are on pause as the Supreme Court of Canada considers the case. The cull order catalyzed fierce protest by the farm owners and their hundreds of supporters, backed by top White House health officials, decrying what they see as government overreach.Host Caryn Ceolin is joined by Dr. Angela Rasmussen, virologist at the University of Saskatchewan, to discuss why the case became a flashpoint, and whether the government’s ability to enforce public health policy is at risk. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Canada's automotive sector continues to trot along the bumpy road, after auto giant Stellantis announced its plans to relocate Jeep production from the Brampton Assembly Plant to a location in Illinois.The Brampton plant has closed its doors in 2024 in preparation for the production of the new EV model, but that's also been paused after US President Trump's tariff announcement on the automotive sector earlier this year.The residuals of Trump's push for domestic vehicle production has since threatened the livelihoods of more than 3,000 at the Brampton plant alone, with the rest of the sector biting its nails for whatever else the President has up his sleeves. And Ottawa has since announced it might bring Stellantis before a judge if it actually goes through with their $13B investment moving down South.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Greg Layson, Digital and Mobile Editor at Automotive News Canada to break down the 'why' behind Stellantis' bombshell announcement, and where it leaves Canada's fragile automotive sector. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It’s been a year of change for the world's largest and most popular coffee house, including the shuttering of hundreds of its North American retail stores. But is that a sign of trouble?Or is it an attempt by the new CEO, appointed last year, to turn inwards to its existing locations to revamp the stores they have already?Host Kris McCusker speaks to Mike Halen, the senior restaurant and foodservice analyst for Bloomberg Intelligence, about some of the recent moves by the chain, where it stands among the current trend of choosing independently-owned, neighbourhood cafes and what could be coming next for the coffee giant. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

How much of your moral autonomy are you willing to sacrifice for convenience? Turning to an AI chatbot for help has become the new 'just search it up on the internet', but the robot's code is far more sophisticated and addicting than the results of a Google search. Answers become detailed, personalized and emotionally impactful, so much so that the load of our own mental rationale becomes lessened once we start the AI conversation.And once the habit is there, detachment - from a product designed to profit off your use - becomes next to impossible.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Maggie Harrison Dupré, senior author at Futurism, to discuss the ways AI chatbots like ChatGPT weren't made to solve your complex, emotional issues, but also won't stop you from reaching for it when you're in need of help. They talk about the mental guardrails users should self-implement to stay in control when interacting with a robot. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Hollywood is abuzz over the latest talent to hit the scene: Tilly Norwood. However, the talk isn’t centred around Tilly’s looks or acting skills, but rather who Tilly is and how it could affect the future of television and film.Tilly Norwood is a fully AI-generated actress, created by Eline Van der Velden, who is a comedian, actor, writer and CEO of AI production company Particle6. Eline says “I see AI not as a replacement for people, but as a new tool – a new paintbrush. Just as animation, puppetry, or CGI opened fresh possibilities without taking away from live acting”.However, many performers and unions representing them are seeing it differently. “Tilly is not art, as art is human,” ACTRA Toronto. Between fighting against the use of artificial intelligence to replace human artistry and bracing for possible tariffs to hit non-U.S. productions, the industry is facing some major challenges.Host Melanie Ng speaks with the President of the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) Toronto, Kate Ziegler, about how the artists are fighting back. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

As Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and David Ortiz proclaimed “DAAAA YANKEES LOSE!”, Toronto Blue Jays fans celebrated as Canada’s team was crowned American League Division champs, beating out their New York rivals on Wednesday in Game 4.The massive series win now paves the way for the American League Championship Series, Seattle Mariners, in a best-of-seven series. This episode was recorded on Friday, before the Seattle Mariners vs Detroit Tigers 15-inning game 5 decider. The panel commented on the possible scenarios heading into the ALCS, including any pitching rotation/roster and injury updates. The organization hasn’t gone this deep into the season since 2016 and fans are hoping some 1992/93 World Series magic is on the horizon.Host Melanie Ng brings together a powerhouse panel for this conversation, including Jays play-by-play announcer Ben Shulman, Sportsnet Blue Jays analyst Blake Murphy and 680 NewsRadio sports reporter Simon Bennett. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Enjoy this special feed drop of The Making of Musk: Understood, from our friends at CBC Podcasts. Where did Elon Musk’s epic ambitions begin? In search of clues we return to his sheltered youth in apartheid South Africa, a world engineered for white supremacy. Along the way, we connect the dots between a bizarre White House ambush of South African president Cyril Ramaphosa to teenage Elon’s ego-powered quests in video games. Finally, was his “draft dodge” from military service a moral act or an opportunist’s exit?Learn more about The Making of Musk: Understood here: https://link.mgln.ai/TBSxMoMWhat explains Elon Musk? Could his most outlandish ambitions and most toxic qualities trace back to his youth in Apartheid South Africa?The Making of Musk: Understood explores his seemingly insatiable drive for dominance, which connects everything from his birthrate obsession (and fourteen children) to his fixation with colonizing Mars. This four-part series, hosted by Jacob Silverman, reveals a little known side of the polarizing billionaire. Silverman tells the vital beginnings of this story — because the Elon era is far from over. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Israel and Hamas edged closer this week to ending their devastating two-year war after agreeing on the initial terms of President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan.An exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners is expected this weekend, paving the way to an imminent ceasefire.But the initial agreement leaves crucial sticking points to be resolved in a future phase of negotiations – including whether Hamas will agree to give up its weapons.Host Caryn Ceolin is joined by Jon Allen, former Canadian ambassador to Israel and Senior Fellow at the Bill Graham Centre for Contemporary International History, to discuss what the deal could entail, and why there’s still uncertainty about whether it’ll translate into a permanent end to the war. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It was another cheeky Oval Office media exchange between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump, and yet another trip to Washington with no tariff deal in the books.Although the two world leaders praised the success of their second meeting, skepticism among Carney's voters - and the country at large - grows as months go by with no substantive movement on bi-lateral negotiations. Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks to former ambassador to the U.S., Frank McKenna to break down Carney's latest visit and the realistic expectations Canadians should have of the PM and his inner circle during the drawn-out yet delicate trade talks with the U.S. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It’s been more than four months since Elon Musk stepped back from the Trump White House and his duties helming the Department of Government Efficiency.But Musk’s chainsaw to federal spending is being acutely felt, amid a U.S. government shutdown that’s giving the Trump administration sway to once again slash critical jobs.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Jacob Silverman, author and host of the CBC podcast ‘The Making of Musk: Understood’ about Musk’s lasting influence post-DOGE, and his greater impact on not just the halls of power in Washington, but around the world.Learn more about Jacob's new podcast below:What explains Elon Musk? Could his most outlandish ambitions and most toxic qualities trace back to his youth in Apartheid South Africa The Making of Musk: Understood explores his seemingly insatiable drive for dominance, which connects everything from his birthrate obsession (and fourteen children) to his fixation with colonizing Mars.This four-part series, hosted by Jacob Silverman, reveals a little known side of the polarizing billionaire. Silverman tells the vital beginnings of this story — because the Elon era is far from over.Listen now here: https://link.mgln.ai/TBSxMoM We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Instead of walking into their classrooms on Monday, some 51,000 Alberta teachers walked off the job, triggering the province's first teacher's strike in its history. It comes after more than a year of failed contract talks between the Alberta Teacher's Association (ATA) and the provincial government - including two rejected offers - with higher wages and increased staffing among the main sticking points.But class (sort of) remains in session for the more than 730,000 students who've been affected by the job action, with the province posting an online learning toolkit of lessons, as well as a stipend of $30 a day to help families who's children are now at home. Teachers, however, will not be monitoring or assessing work during this time, so who's to say what degree of learning will realistically take place. Host Richard Southern speaks to Sean Amato, Alberta political reporter for CityNews to discuss what a potentially weeks-long education strike could mean for the province's public school system, and the reaction from hundreds of thousands of families who will now have to play the role of 'educator' at home or pay someone else to do it instead. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Prime Minister Mark Carney, once known as the Governor of the Bank of Canada, is set to table his first federal budget next month.With a few weeks left until the November 4th reveal, Ottawa is now putting the final touches on who gets what for the upcoming fiscal year.But with a projected deficit of $68B, Carney and his business-focused background will be looking for ways to spend smart, leaving some sectors inevitably vulnerable to cuts.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Theo Argitis, Senior VP of Policy at the Business Council of Canada, who also co-chaired a consultation proposal that outlines five points towards a prosperous upcoming budget. They discuss what challenges are up ahead for the Carney government, and the ways in which Ottawa could set some firm fiscal guardrails to prioritize economic growth. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Democrats and Republicans are clashing south of the border, and it’s led to a government shutdown.The two parties are locked in a dispute over health care funding, but the standoff has also led to federal services being suspended, workers not getting paid, funding for “blue” states being cut, and a flurry of memes and AI videos that have been described as racist.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with NBC News Senior Washington Editor Sarah Mimms about the cause of the shut down, the impact on Americans, how long this may last, and what problems this could cause for Canadian travelers and businesses. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

From balancing busy schedules to shifting interests, managing friendships as an adult can sometimes feel like a task. Throw in the pandemic’s impact on social interactions and managing conversations around divisive politics…and you have a recipe for strained relationships (perhaps even before they start).Host Melanie Ng speaks with clinical psychologist Dr. Loren Soeiro about how to take inventory of your friendships in order to make more meaningful connections. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The European Union recently banned the sale and use of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide - also known as TPO - for its alleged reproductive toxicant qualities. Most gel nail polishes contain TPO, as it's the key ingredient to ensure a shiny finish after hardening following exposure to UV light.However, Canada has yet to take any similar action, considering its risk-based model for product regulation. But if the writing is on the wall about TPO's dangers, what is stopping Health Canada from taking a proactive stance on reproductive safety?Host Maria Kestane speaks to Miriam Diamond, a professor in the department of earth sciences & The School of the Environment at the University of Toronto to discuss the different regulatory approaches between the EU and Canada, and how Canadians can make their own informed choices on the treatments they pay for. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Today, Canadians from coast to coast will confront the dark legacy of residential schools and honour the children who never came home. But on this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, there are demands for more than just reflection.Indigenous communities are at a critical point in relations with Prime Minister Mark Carney over new legislation that fast-tracks big energy and infrastructure projects, calling into focus Indigenous sovereignty and whether the country is moving backwards on the long road of reconciliation.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Assembly of First Nations Yukon Regional Chief Kluane Adamek about what reconciliation looks like in an era of global uncertainty, and how Canadians can meaningfully carry this work forward well beyond one day. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It's a feeling you only want to feel once - the panic of suspecting an abrupt light flash as you're driving, only to receive a ticket in the mail a few weeks later with a picture of your car next to an owed-amount for speeding. Well, it's a feeling Ontarians soon won't be feeling ever again.Premier Ford plans to put pen to paper on his dislike for speed enforcement cameras, announcing last week his government's incoming legislation to ban them in a fight against what he calls a 'cash-grab', after the fact safety tool. Instead, he's investing to help municipalities implement speed bumps, round abouts and other traffic-calming measures. But it's a move that's garnered as much support as it has pushback, with groups pleading with Ford to think twice before canning a tool that saves lives and makes drivers think twice before using their heavy foot. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Benjamin Wolfe, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Toronto, and Co-Director of the Applied Perception and Psychophysics Laboratory to discuss what the changes in road safety measures could look like, and how driver behaviour is influenced way before someone gets in their car and turns the key. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

A recent report from the University of Ottawa shows 22 out of the 34 municipalities in Ontario were given failing grades in regards to taxes and red tape restrictions surrounding development acceleration.And unfortunately, Toronto seems to be wearing that 'F' right on its sleeve, reporting under 120 new condo sales in the month of August - a number that hasn't been that low in decades.And with the federal government making legislation to increase not just more housing, but affordable housing, how can we reignite builds?Host Mike Eppel speaks to Residential Construction Council of Ontario President Richard Lyall to get the answers.Do you have a topic that's confounding you in this economy? We'll be happy to dig into it for you and get you the answers you need. Email us at: [email protected]. Thank you for listening! We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

This week, from a White House lectern and televised to the world, President Donald Trump gave an explicit warning to America’s pregnant women: Tylenol use during pregnancy could lead to autism.The claim is contradicted by decades of scientific research that has not conclusively demonstrated a causal link.It’s alarmed health experts who say Trump’s comments also amplify an entrenched prejudice around women’s pain, with real-life consequences.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Sabina Vohra-Miller, a Doctor of Public Health candidate and expert in clinical pharmacology, about how unproven medical advice from the highest levels of government can actively endanger women’s health. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Prime Minister Mark Carney joined several key allies this week at the United Nations General Assembly in adding their names to the list of countries recognizing Palestinian statehood. The move is an attempt to increase pressure toward a two state solution amid the war between Israel and Hamas.Will recognition help lead to a two state solution, will it embolden Hamas, and can Canada do more to hasten a ceasefire? Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Colin Robertson, a former Canadian diplomat who served at the U.N., to get the answers. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has returned to television screens, but concerns linger over whether free speech in America is under threat.Kimmel’s short-lived suspension, which followed a thinly-veiled threat from a top Trump official, was viewed by many as the latest example of government censorship.Even before Kimmel went dark, a government crackdown aimed at silencing the president’s critics was already underway, igniting a firestorm of debate about one of America’s most sacred civil liberties.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Eugene Volokh, Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, to discuss the Trump administration's power to limit what people can say, and why free speech everywhere is vulnerable. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

A flotilla of ships has set sail from the western end of the Mediterranean to the Gaza Strip, where a devastating war has destroyed much of the Palestinian territory. The ships hope to transport food, water and medicine, in defiance of Israel’s naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.But the flotilla is unlikely to reach its destination. Nearly all attempts to deliver aid to Gaza by sea have been intercepted by Israeli forces. Compounding fears of possible violence, one of the Gaza-bound vessels taking part in this latest mission was struck by a suspected drone earlier this month while docked in Tunisia.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Toronto-based pro-Palestinian activist Zaheera Soomar from her boat in the Mediterranean, about the mission to deliver aid to Gaza, and why she’s willing to risk her life to do it. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The Bank of Canada has cut interest rates for the first time since March, and just a few hours later - on the same day - the U-S Federal Reserve followed suit with its first cut this year.It comes with both economies struggling, but that’s where the similarities end.The two central banks have very different mandates, and while trade uncertainty has made the job tricky on both sides of the border, two distinct but connected stories continue to play out.There are also concerns about Canada's real estate market - and how interest rates could impact access to affordable housing.Host Kris McCusker speaks to Randall Bartlett, Deputy Chief Economist at Desjardins Group, about both decisions, the thinking behind the cuts, and what might be coming next. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Enjoy this special feed drop of Bite Back with Abbey Sharp. In today’s episode of Bite Back with Abbey Sharp, I’m joined by Canadian actor, podcaster, and cystic fibrosis advocate Jeremie Saunders, host of the hit show SickBoy. Building on his lived experience with CF, Jeremie has built a platform that breaks stigma and opens up real conversations about what it means to live well with chronic illness. Together, we talk about the disorienting reality of rapid body changes — whether from medication, illness, or simply moving through different stages of life — and how to navigate these shifts with compassion and grace. This conversation goes beyond chronic disease, offering lessons that resonate with anyone who’s ever struggled with body image, identity, or change.Here’s a run down of what we discussed in today’s episode:IntroductionLife With Cystic FibrosisFood Challenges With Cystic FibrosisTrikafta and the Metabolic ShiftBecoming a Stranger in Your Own BodyBody Changes, CF, and the Rise of #SkinnyTokDiet Culture Temptations and Disordered EatingWhen Wellness Culture Gets It WrongWhy “Natural” Isn’t a Moral FlexHumour as a Tool for Coping With Chronic IllnessSelf-Compassion Through Body ChangesGratitude, Growth, and Moving ForwardCheck in with today’s amazing guest:Podcast: SickboyInstagram: @jeremiesaundersYoutube: /sickboymediaDisclaimer: The content in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is never a substitute for medical advice. If you’re struggling with with your mental or physical health, please work one on one with a health care provider.If you have heard yourself in our discussion today, and are looking for support, contact the free NEDIC helpline at 1-866-NEDIC-20 or go to eatingdisorderhope.com.🥤 Check out my 2-in-1 Plant Based Probiotic Protein Powder, neue theory at www.neuetheory.com or @neuetheory and use my promo code BITEBACK20 to get 20% off your order!Don’t forget to Please subscribe on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a review! It really helps us out.✉️ SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTERS ⤵️Neue Theory newsletterAbbey's Kitchen newsletter🥞 FREE HUNGER CRUSHING COMBO™ E-BOOK!💪🏼 FREE PROTEIN 101 E-BOOK!📱 Follow me!Instagram: @abbeyskitchenTikTok: @abbeyskitchenYouTube: @AbbeysKitchenMy blog, Abbey’s Kitchen www.abbeyskitchen.comMy book, The Mindful Glow Cookbook affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3NoHtvfIf you liked this podcast, please like, follow, and leave a review with your thoughts and let me know who you want me to discuss next! We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

One by one, companies are mandating their employees to kiss their hybrid work-from-home model goodbye and head back into the office. But what once was before the pandemic rocked society's work-life balance, is no longer, and companies need to take the extra mile to ensure their offices pose as a productive workspace for their employees to thrive in.Host of In This Economy!? Mike Eppel speaks to Sarah Bramley, Senior VP, Workplace Advisory for Colliers Canada. She co-authored a recent report that detailed the relationship between a great office space and increased productivity. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

To post-secondary or to not post-secondary?The back and forth for almost 40% of Canadians who feel unsure whether or not higher education is worth their time and money. A recent Ipsos survey for CourseCompare, a data-based platform on Canadian post-secondary information, revealed that their Gen Z respondents felt the most confused about the value of post-secondary education, with 46% saying they were unsure about what good a degree or diploma could do for them. And besides the numbers, an overall pendulum swing in sentiment towards higher education is also driving uncertainty towards staying in school. Couple that with high tuition prices, changing student visa legislation, and AI's role, and the pendulum just keeps on swinging. Host Pooja Handa speaks to Robert Furtado, the CEO of CourseCompare to discuss their Return on Education index, a database that categorizes which degrees and diplomas give you the best return on investment. The two also talk about what skills you need to protect yourself from the current volatile job market.You can learn more about CourseCompare here:https://www.coursecompare.ca/https://www.coursecompare.ca/roe-index/ We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

It’s been a busy start to the fall sitting of Parliament.Ahead of the end of its first week back, long-time minister Chrystia Freeland announced she decided to leave her cabinet post at Transport, while the Prime Minister announced her appointment as a new special envoy to Ukraine. Meanwhile the Ottawa confirmed its budget will be coming November 4th, with a substantial deficit attached.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Tyler Meredith, a former economic advisor to the government, about Freeland’s departure and legacy, and what to expect in the delayed fiscal plan. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

There are growing calls from some federal and provincial politicians for the Carney government to abolish Canada’s temporary foreign worker program, claiming companies are using the it to find cheaper labour. The push came after the job numbers for August showed tens of thousands of losses and a high unemployment rate for young Canadians.But the government is pushing back, saying TFW use is in significant decline and the program is needed. So what’s really happening with Canada’s job market and are foreign workers to blame?Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with McGill economics professor Fabian Lange to find out. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The denouncement of political violence has never been louder than right now in America, but the gap that positions itself between the country's opposing political ideologies has simultaneously never been wider. In the wake of Charlie Kirk's death, Americans and the world at large, have become reminded, once again, just how severe the reality of political violence has become. Death threats towards politicians, the notorious acts of January 6, and calculated assassinations of influential public figures - to name a few. But what about Canada? How sensitive are we to political violence? And what can be done to further distance our reality from that of America's?Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Justin Ling, a freelance journalist and author of the Bug-eyed and Shameless newsletter to do a pulse check of where things stand on this side of the border, and how Canadians can take matters into their own hands to prevent further widening the political polarization gap. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Federal politicians are back in their seats in the House of Commons today, to kick start the fall sitting of Parliament.It's expected to be a jam packed agenda for the next few months, as the federal government continues to try and stickhandle the tariff war with the US, put together a balancing act budget, releases a new housing plan, and unveils new trade and climate strategies. All this as the opposition parties sort out lingering leadership questions.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Mount Royal University political scientist Lori Williams who breaks down the challenges and political risks facing the Carney government. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The name Terry Fox is synonymous with courage, perseverance and promise. After losing his leg at just 18 years old, his run across Canada inspired generations to come – and to date, has raised over $900 million for cancer research. His journey was deeply rooted in wanting to do more, by raising awareness and to help others see strength, not weakness. These same sentiments were true for George Hincks and Marshall McDougall, two Canadian men who both had a leg amputated as a result of injuries sustained in World War I. Their hike across our nation is a story you may not have heard - but once you do, you will never forget.Host Melanie Ng speaks with Eric Story, the author of a feature about George Hincks and Marshall McDougall. Eric is an adjunct professor at Wilfrid Laurier University and a postdoctoral fellow at Western University. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

One of Earth's closest planetary neighbours could be harbouring life of its own.That's the finding concluded from what a rock sample, collected by NASA's Perseverance Mars rover, obtained during its time out there. Researchers say that a biosignature was potentially found within the sample, indicating a sign of past or current life on the planet.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks to Dr. Mariek Schmidt, a professor at Brock University, and one of the several Canadian researches a part of NASA's team to discuss how her and the team made the discovery, and how it compares to how life on our planet began. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Being its victim stings pretty bad, but is the hurt worth a criminal record?One - or several - speed camera vandals took to the streets of Toronto this past week, making their mark and message on radar technology loud and clear, damaging 16 over the span of one night. And not to mention, the vandals' most sacred target, the Parkside Drive camera that was vandalized 7 times in less than a year. Ontario's Premier denounced the radar technology, calling it a cash grab, and saying he wants them gone from cities. However, safety advocates are sounding the alarm on Ford's comments, calling them dangerous and out of touch.Although dozens of citizens took to social media to share their gratitude for the vandals' Robin Hood-esque style, it begs the question of how far can criminal activity be mimicked and celebrated before it goes too far?Host Richard Southern speaks to Jacqueline Helfgott, a criminology and forensics professor at Seattle University to break down the intersection of media, crime, and notoriety that perpetrates what she calls 'copy-cat crime'. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Russia is being accused of provoking Poland and its NATO allies, after multiple drones violated its airspace during a Russian aerial attack on Ukraine.As NATO fighter jets engaged potential enemy targets in allied airspace, Prime Minister Donald Tusk activated Article 4, signaling his country considered its territorial integrity and security under threat.But regardless of whether the infiltration by Russia was deliberate or accidental, Western officials have few doubts the Kremlin is testing NATO’s resolve.Host Caryn Ceolin is joined by Tim Sayle, associate professor of history and director of the International Relations Program at the University of Toronto, to discuss how the latest incursion raises the stakes between Russia and the security alliance, and what comes next. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

A little screen time while on the toilet doesn't hurt anybody......the key word here is 'little'.A recent study published in the medical journal, PLOS, shows that those who bring their smartphone with them to do some scrolling while using the bathroom, tend to sit on the toilet longer, increasing their risk for hemorrhoids. Yes, it could be a dagger in the heart for those who see their phone-toilet time as a moment of solitude, however, there are ways you can still enjoy your scrolling while protecting yourself - literally.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Dr. Trisha Pasricha, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and the senior author of the study to discuss how you can make the right choices while conducting business. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

There are still calls for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to step down as the U-S Secretary of Health and Human Services after an intense and – at times – combative hearing in Washington.Kennedy has been criticized by people in his own party – and his own family – for some of the decisions he has made around health care since being sworn in earlier this year.And some of his decisions could impact Canada and Canadians.Host Kris McCusker speaks to Dr. Kashif Pirzada – a Toronto-based emergency physician and co-chair of the Canadian Covid Society about how Kennedy could change things on this side of the border – decades after the introduction of vaccines brought in a different kind of change. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Woodrow Wilson’s hidden stroke. Franklin Roosevelt’s hidden wheelchair. John F. Kennedy’s chronic back pain. There is a historical tendency to obscure the health problems of American presidents from public view.But justifiable question surrounding how far loyal aides and the White House will go to conceal the full picture of the president’s health – and the media’s role in uncovering it – are increasingly being raised following President Joe Biden’s medical decline.Washington journalists find themselves grappling yet again with the fair, but sensitive issue, after unfounded speculation about Donald Trump’s health – and impending death – recently spread online.Host Caryn Ceolin is joined by American author, presidential historian and journalist Garrett Graff to discuss how the president’s health should be covered in an age as volatile as now. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Finding a job is difficult for anyone right now, but especially for a certain sector.Young people are having difficulty finding work. In fact, the youth unemployment rate this summer has been up to nearly 15%.A new study is taking a look at the root causes and offering some possible solutions.Host of In This Economy!? Mike Eppel speaks to L.J. Valencia, one of the co-authors of the Desjardins report. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Prime Minister Mark Carney and his inner circle gathered in Toronto this week for a two day cabinet ‘planning forum’ to set priorities ahead of the Fall sitting of Parliament.At the strategy session, Canadians learned the upcoming budget will be focused on both austerity and investment, and more developments have been revealed in our trade talks with the Trump administration.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with CityNews Political Reporter Glen McGregor, who covered the cabinet meeting and shares his insights. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Your social media feeds are probably littered with back to school pictures, kids smiling ear to ear. Unfortunately, while we all hope for a positive experience for the next generation, the sad reality is that our youth are facing issues that need attention now.The newly released Raising Canada report says more than 70 per cent of Canadian youth aged 12 to 17 experienced bullying in the last year (with cyberbullying on the rise), and more than 13 per cent of children were living in poverty by the end of 2024 – and these numbers are growing.Host Melanie Ng speaks with Sara Austin, CEO and founder of Children First Canada. The organization is urging immediate action from policy-makers, especially as the fall parliamentary session gets underway. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The Alberta government has reversed its July order for schools to remove books and other materials that contain explicit sexual content.The pause came after several critics spoke out against the Edmonton Public school board's list of the more than 200 titles it planned on pulling from its library shelves.But Premier Danielle Smith and Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides didn't seem to hit the pause button because of those outcries, nor did they indicate how long it should last.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Sean Amato, Alberta political reporter for CityNews, to discuss the potential of the ban rematerializing as the new school year continues to settle in, and who else - other than Margaret Atwood - Premier Smith is looking for support from. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Canada Post is the country's crown mail courier, but year after year, Canadians seem to be seeing less and less of their prominent blue, red and white logo. And the company itself seems to be seeing less green, too, so much so they've remained in a consistent deficit since 2017. Their latest data shows a record $407 million loss throughout the second quarter, and with its 55,000 employees carrying on their overtime ban after being legislated back to work following their 2024 holiday strike, the numbers will continue to trend downward.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Ian Lee, associate professor at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University, to discuss what lies ahead for the crown corporation if they choose to ignore the writing on the wall, and where contract talks between the company and the union stand more than 21 months later. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Despite weeks of whirlwind American diplomacy, Russia sent wave after wave of drones and missiles across Kyiv and other cities on Thursday.It was the fiercest attack on the Ukrainian capital since President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met two weeks ago in Alaska, and the clearest indication yet of the Kremlin’s resolve to continue its bombardment of Ukraine, leaving the two sides no closer to securing a diplomatic off-ramp.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks with Oleksa Drachewych, an assistant professor of history at Western University, about the challenges in forging a lasting peace in the largest land war in Europe since World War II. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Here we go again.Trade talks between Canada and the US are back on following a lengthy pause between the two sides. Our Canada-US Trade Minister flew down to Washington this week to resume negotiations. Canada dropped many retaliatory tariffs in order to get everyone back to the bargaining table.So what now, and will Canada be able to achieve what other countries can’t on sectoral tariffs?Host Cormac Mac Sweeney dives deeper into the latest round of trade talks with lawyer William Pellerin of McMillan LLP. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Dozens of online influencers are using their platform to spread financial literacy, which continues to have a growing impact on younger generations looking to get into investing, saving and making more money.And although cybercriminals have been around for decades, they're capitalizing on social media users with the help of artificial intelligence in the form of deep fakes or fraudulent advertisements to get your money and information. Host Mike Eppel speaks to Tony Anscombe, chief security evangelist at ESET to discuss the signs to look out for, and how to protect yourself and your wallet from being one of the millions of cybercrime victims. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

On an unannounced trip to Ukraine over the weekend, Prime Minister Mark Carney hinted at the possibility that Canada could have a military presence in Ukraine as a part of a coalition to maintain a ceasefire if Ukraine and Russia can agree to one.Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Christian Leuprecht, professor at the Royal Military College and Editor of the Canadian Military Journal about whether our military is ready for such an operation, what the risks are, and whether this could mirror operations from the Cold War. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Basking in the sun, late patio nights and the sweetest of sleep-ins. The relaxed and unstructured schedule of summer vacation is glorious…but unfortunately it’s almost time to get back to reality. Whether it’s back to school or back to your work routine, when it comes to sleep, the time is now.Host Melanie Ng speaks with Alanna McGinn, CEO of Good Night Sleep Site, about the A to Zzz’s of sleep including the physical and mental impact, PLUS the do’s and don’ts when it comes to sleeping aids, certain foods and technology.You can learn more about Alanna's work here:Instagram: instagram.com/alanna.mcginnWebsite: https://alannamcginn.com We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at [email protected] Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky