The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

Covid is still with us but what has health experts worried is the spread of respiratory disease especially among youngsters in school. As a result, some authorities are suggesting that masks be put back on. No mandates, at least not yet. Dr Zain Chagla joins us. Plus, the world will be eight billion strong as of tomorrow. Good news or bad? And more with some pretty interesting "end bits". Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It wasn't what Donald Trump and his band of deniers expected and they are still trying to figure out what happened. Bruce and Chantal have their thoughts on what those US midterm results should mean to Canadian Conservatives. Plus whither Canada-China relations? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some truly wonderful and sometimes emotional letters from you, listeners to The Bridge, about what Remembrance Day means to you. Even the Random Ranter gets in on the act with his thoughts. It's a special show. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At the time of this recording the results were still being counted and in fact may still be counted for a few days, or even weeks, yet. But one thing is clear: the Republican rout some expected in the US midterms did not happen. Bruce tries to clear the smoke and mirrors from the story. Also Doug Ford changes his plans to use the notwithstanding clause -- what does that say about his leadership. And more on our theme this week about "remembering". Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's a centuries-old tactic in war, to deceive your enemy. Is that what the Russians are up to in Ukraine? And if so are the Ukrainians falling victim to the strategy? Brian Stewart takes a look at the issue of deception, in another of his regular weekly columns. And Ted Barris drops by to talk about his new book, "The Battle of the Atlantic" as we continue our theme of "remembering" this week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With Remembrance Day coming up this Friday The Bridge devotes some time this week to "remembering". Beginning today with a feature interview with Tim Cook and the stories behind his terrific new First World War book, 'Life Savers and Body Snatchers". And among our end bits today, what do you think the most common dog name in Canada is? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Three main topics on tap with Bruce and Chantal in this episode. First up, new data after the initial few weeks of the Convoy Inquiry, on how Canadians are feeling about the way the government handled the situation. And some pretty interesting testimony this week from the various convoy organizers. Then Doug Ford is using the notwithstanding clause to ensure that kids stay in strike-threatened schools in Ontario which could lead to a Supreme Court fight. And Ottawa drops its economic statement - what to make of it? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your Turn, emails, comments, questions on a wide range of topics this week, and of course our regular Thursday commentary from The Random Ranter. Issues from Doug Ford, to the monarchy, to Ukraine, to voter turnout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The "smoke" is clearing inside what seems to have been a chaotic scene inside the convoy that shut down Ottawa earlier this year. Bruce Anderson has his take on the latest testimony from protestors themselves. And also, the latest soundings of what Canadians feel about inflation and Covid. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It was unthinkable a year ago but after what seems to have been a botched invasion of Ukraine, some Russian experts feel Russia could be on the brink. Our regular Tuesday commentator on the conflict, Brian Stewart, weighs in with his thoughts. Also, as we all get older some a Tuesday end bit on how we can improve our health -- it's simple but apparently effective. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The attack on Paul Pelosi in the US raises new questions about the level of public protection public officials get. In Canada, with examples of threats to public officials on the rise, should there be more protection? Former RCMP Deputy Commissioner P-Y Bourduas is our guest. And then as we get ready for the holiday book season, author Steve Paikin joins us to talk about his new book on Canada's 17th prime minister, John Turner. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce and Chantal with their take on this week's hearings at the Commission of Inquiry into the use of the Emergencies Act; how to fight inflation, the nuclear rebound, the monarchy in Canada and Elon Musk. A busy, busy lineup! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dozens and dozens of emails answering the question posed the other day -- if there's one thing you would do to the CBC what would it be? Your thoughts, ideas and questions about the CBC headline the podcast today, and the Ranter pops by with his take on the Convoy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce Anderson and Smoke Mirrors and the Truth deal with the issue of Doug Ford and why the Ontario premier doesn't want to appear at the Commission into the Emergencies Act. Does he have something to hide? Plus what about Jagmeet Singh and his statement that even if Ottawa did something wrong in introducing the Act, he is unlikely to pull the NDOP support of the government? Plus, why such low voter turnout in local politics? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Stewart's regular Tuesday commentary looks at Russia's latest battlefield decisions that show an invader in a combination of retreat and brutal attack. But first some thoughts on what the CBC might learn from the BBC's assessment of where it is after 100 years. And an end bit you will find interesting, and maybe rewarding! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathleen Petty joins us from Calgary to talk about the new Alberta Premier and Dr Isaac Bogoch calls in from his hospital job to talk about where things really stand on the latest Covid wave. Plus, some "Good Housekeeping" tips on pumpkin carving. Seriously. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The mess in the British parliament opens the door to a discussion about leadership, and how leaders are picked whether in Britain or in Canada. Bruce and Chantal have their thoughts on that and a lot more including Chrystia Freeland's latest moves, and Pierre Poilievre's interview choices. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vaccines, masks and Covid were central to a lot of your comments this week, but so were thoughts about how we define the "west" in Canada. Maybe the use of "Eh" or "Hey" gives us the answer! All this plus a new rant from the Random Ranter. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Liz Truss comes out swinging in Westminster today but is it enough? Can the British prime minister survive an onslaught of double-digit inflation plus attacks from inside and outside her own party? Bruce Anderson is here with that and a lot more (Danielle Smith, Ukraine and the Arctic) on Smoke, Mirrors and the Truth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Stewart uses his weekly commentary to give us a sense of just what the Ukrainian resistance is doing to thwart the Russian invasion of their country. While the two armies face each other the resistance fighters operate at a very different level and it's having a major impact. And on "end bits" today, the world's oldest practising doctor! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Covid Monday is back at least for this week on The Bridge. Many of you have been asking to bring one of our doctors back for an assessment of where we are on covid. Dr Lisa Barrett from Dalhouse University joins us with her take and its one you should listen to. Then it's over to London for a chat with the former Director of Communications for Stephen Harper, Andrew MacDougall, and his analysis on what's happened to Liz Truss and whether she can even survive this week only a month after getting the British PM's job. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chantal and Bruce with their thoughts on the new commission in Ottawa town, and what day one told us about how this investigation will unfold. Also by comparison, the final committee hearing into the January 6th insurrection in Washington. And is federalism in Canada dead? And what's Chrystia Freeland up to? It's a full slate with something for everyone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your comments on everything from EV's (still!) and Danielle Smith to freedom, plus the latest from the Random Ranter. This week the RR and remember he's from the west, has his thoughts on western alienation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce has new Abacus data on how Canadians feel about Covid including what they would do if a new wave threatens the country. That plus the latest on the commission looking into the use of the Emergencies Act, and are the Republicans making a comeback in the US midterms. Lots of smoke, mirrors and the truth in all of that! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With the situation in Ukraine tense and Russia’s threats of using nuclear weapons still on the table, could Canada be taking a more active role? Former foreign affairs minister Lloyd Axworthy thinks so and Brian Stewart agrees. Both are guests on The Bridge today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on September 14th. Pierre Poilievre's first meeting with the media didn't go that well for either Poilievre or the media. What should be taken from the encounter? And can anyone win the political long game by attacking the media?And what would an SMT be without a little Donald Trump? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chantal and Bruce on Danielle Smith's win in Alberta and what it means for Canada. Plus, is Pierre Poilievre's social media out of control and if so, who's to blame? Also, the mess at Hockey Canada and will it ever be cleaned up? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Last week the RR had his say on the issue of electric vehicles, EVs, and this week we hear the fallout, both good and bad, on Your Turn. But the Ranter isn't done either as he has "take two". Plus lots of your other comments on everything from freedom to Trump to Trudeau and surfing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce is in the UK this week so not surprisingly he has a few things to say about the chaos the latest British Prime Minister finds herself in. Also, a little Donald Trump bashing just to stay consistent. But the big question revolves around electoral reform and whether it will ever happen here, especially after Monday's Quebec election results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's another Brian Stewart Tuesday as the former war correspondent helps us put the various elements of the Ukraine War into context while giving us a little history at the same time. Plus, are the rich really getting richer? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They’re back! James Moore and Gerald Butts are back by popular demand. The two experienced political observers drop their partisan positions (or sure try) to give us their take. This time the conversation is about what happens and what needs to happen inside a party when a new leader takes power. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce is off for this week's Good Talk but Rob Russo fills in with Chantal. Is there reason for optimism with progress on Truth and Reconciliation? And in a fight between climate change and inflation who wins? Plus the Quebec election is next week and so is the search for a new premier in Alberta. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lots of different questions, comments and ideas this week. Plus the Random Ranter takes a shot at a very popular Bridge topic: EV's! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bruce Anderson with his take on a potpourri of issues that really do the range. A new study on Covid in The US, questions about questions in the media; and wondering about fascism in Italy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Stewart is with us again after a critical week in the war over Ukraine. Threats and counter threats, especially ones involving nuclear weapons, have many people worried, including Brian. Also, today, how steps per day are important but so is the pace you do those steps. Plus the amazing weight of ants. That's right, the weight of ants! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some comments about the destruction of Fiona on Canada's east coast. Plus a new study from Mainstreet Research with results that suggest almost half of Canadians don't trust their media. And then, a feature interview to mark this week's National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on Friday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After much pre-event discussion, the opening round of the Justin versus Pierre match took place and Chantal and Bruce have their scorecards ready. All this at the same time there's chatter about a new civility around Parliament. Any chance of that? All that and a lot more this week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lots of comments and opinions from all parts of the country today as you weigh in on the issues of the day. Plus the Random Ranter, (with new music!), has his say too. Enjoy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than ninety percent of Canadians have had a COVID vaccine in the past 18 months, but will they take another shot? An organized social media campaign and Russian bots seem to be having an impact. Bruce Anderson has thoughts on that and many other SMT issues from polling to Donald Trump and whether Merrick Galand has tipped his hand about an indictment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

He's got his back up against the wall in Ukraine and he's losing some support at home. What options does Vladimir Putin have and will he use them, including nuclear weapons? Brian Stewart is by with his thoughts. Also more on linear versus digital television, and a new study on life "out there"! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The long goodbye for Queen Elizabeth is over with her body now on its way to its final resting place at Windsor Castle. The end of an historic ten-day period since her passing. Today the Bridge deals with that with Andrew MacDougall joining us from London. But today's program also deals with issues surrounding journalism and its coverage of politicians. Andrew, a former Director of Communications for Prime Minister Stephen Harper helps us on that too. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new IPSOS survey says 60 percent of Canadians want a referendum on whether to keep the monarchy. Really? Good grist for a start to this week's Good Talk. Chantal and Bruce discuss that plus Pierre Poilievre's first week and why is the Quebec election getting so little interest outside the province. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Last week was the debut of the Random Ranter, an anonymous contributor from western Canada. It was extremely popular in his first offering so he's back with some thoughts that are bound to receive a mixed response. But being Your Turn, most of the show today is all you -- your thoughts on everything from the death of the Queen to the election of Pierre Poilievre as leader of the CPC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pierre Poilievre's first meeting with the media didn't go that well for either Poilievre or the media. What should be taken from the encounter? And can anyone win the political long game by attacking the media?And what would an SMT be without a little Donald Trump? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Ukraine story this past few days has been intriguing. Have we reached a turning point? Brian Stewart is back with his insight and research on what's really happening in the war with Russia.Plus, will doing thousands of steps a day help counter dementia? A new study says "yes". Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A few comments about the Poilievre win, the royal weekend of mourning, the Ukraine developments, and then a special feature interview. Thomas Sadowski is a face you'll recognize because of his work on television, movies and theatre. But the work he may be proudest of is his humanitarian work and today he has a stark warning about an impending disaster facing certain countries as a result of food shortages. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chantal and Bruce on all things relevant on this day from the death of Elizabeth The Great, to the questions about King Charles, to the Prime Minister's decision to say through the next election and to the winner of tomorrow's Conservative leadership race. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Thursday "Your Turn" episode has all the regular features of your comments and ideas, plus the introduction of a new segment -- the Random Ranter with his take on the events of the week. The idea here is to have a little fun but still make a point. He's anonymous, but what we can say is he's from western Canada and he's a keen observer of the political scene. He travels frequently and listens to what people have to say. He's not a broadcaster, in fact like many of you he is often frustrated by broadcasters! So welcome Random Ranter. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why do people rarely last more than ten years with any government? Bruce Anderson has his take on today's season opening SMT. And more from Liz Truss to how television networks are reacting to change. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The minister of defense on dealing with the Generals, fighting Putin, and what she's learned about leadership. Anita Anand has only been in cabinet three years but in that time has had to deal with the vaccine crisis in one portfolio, and a war that could go global in another. She's received both criticism and praise -- what's it taught her about leadership? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.