The Big Story

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling on the Federal Government to restore its promise to make life affordable for Canadians. One Canadian was killed in the high-speed train crash in Spain last week. In Michigan, supporters of Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed pushed for their party in a tight race for a U.S. senate seat in tomorrow's midterm elections. US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra believes Canadians are interfering in the U.S. midterm election. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew called for the Indian Act to be abolished, which was met with echoes from Prime Minister Mark Carney who agreed that it should be scrapped. The act was passed in 1876 with aims of assimilating Indigenous populations into Eurocentric ways of living through legislation that governs where they live, where their kids go to school, and who they are. Host Maria Kestane speaks to John Borrows, the Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law at the University of Toronto's faculty of law. They discuss the different approaches that could help repeal and replace the act, and why other Indigenous leaders believe Ottawa should keep it right where it is. John Borrows is a leading voice in Indigenous governance across Canada. Read his latest book here: The Seven Cycles of Life by John Borrows | Penguin Random House Canada We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Few things are spookier than an interest rate hike. Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" The Bank of Canada opted to hike interest rates for the first time in three years in an effort to help runaway inflation because of high energy prices. There are concerns this could push potential homebuyers to the sidelines and further hurt those looking to renew mortgages, as Canadians grapple with a rising cost-of-living. Throw in geopolitical tensions thanks to the Trump Administration, and we could see a pattern of interest rates in the near future. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Clay Jarvis is a mortgage expert at Ratehub.ca to discuss what changes to make to your monthly budgets, and how homeowners and potential homeowner should approach the next few months. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Canada is still reviewing its F-35 purchase even after receiving its first two fighter jets. Federal ministers won't say much about environment and climate change Canada abandoning its work to end thermal coal exports. Businesses are embracing the move to scrap the twice-yearly clock change ritual in some parts of the country. William Shatner, Hugh Jackman, and many more stars are paying tribute to Patrick Stewart with memories of the actor following the news of his death. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Now that Question 10 has been put to rest, what about the other 9? Albertans were asked a range of questions regarding the future of the economy, immigration system, and Canada's constitution. Official results released on Thursday found that voters want changes to what programs and services non-citizens can access, while striking down any changes to the constitution including abolishing the Senate. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Jared Wesley, political science professor at the University of Alberta to discuss where this leaves Danielle Smith's leverage against Ottawa, how the urban-rural divide showed up in the results, and how the provincial NDP could pull up a seat at the table. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada is not yet in a position to reach a trade deal with the U.S., even with the congressional midterms just days away. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly says Ottawa is consulting its lawyers about remarks by the CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs, who suggested he bought Stelco to protect his company's U.S. operations from Canadian competition. The federal spending watch-dog plans to issue nine report cards today. The company that owns MV Odyssey says they've run out of money because of high fuel costs. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Israelis showed up in historic numbers to have their voice heard in Tuesday's National election. It's been more than a day since polls closed, and although official results remain unclear, neither Benjamin Netanyahu or his main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, aren't projected to form a majority government. Host Caryn Ceolin welcomes back Aurel Braun, an international relations professor at the University of Toronto to discuss what kind of coalition calculus could be on the horizon, the impact of the Arab vote, and the obstacles in the way of a possible unity government. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty says First Nations have offered mixed reactions to Ottawa's plan to review the Indian Act, a Ukraine-based animal rescue group says a Canadian volunteer has been killed in a drone attack, in Saskatchewan, Premier Scott Moe's government, in its throne speech, is promising to continue to cut personal income taxes, and five finalists vying to represent Canada at the 2027 Eurovision song contest are making their pitches. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Since US President Trump took office, he vowed the Russian invasion into Ukraine would end within 'minutes'. Almost two years later, and ceasefire talks remain murky. Within recent weeks, true colours have seemed to seep through diplomacy, including a diesel deal between the US and Russia - something Trump frames a way to lower cost of oil for Americans. Not only do Ukrainians have to deal with Russia's growing purse, but also with internet connectivity issues thanks to Starshield's service slowdown. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Arne Kislenko, a history professor at Toronto Metropolitan University to discuss how vulnerable Ukraine is to Trump's personal agenda, and how deadly year six of the war could look like if the US continues to cozy up to Russia. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Abu Dhabi's crown prince is in Ottawa for meetings as Canada and the United Arab Emirates work to cement their trade ties, the federal government is set to introduce changes today to Canada's medical assistance in dying law, new municipal governments are ready to get to work in Ontario after municipal elections last night, and a Montreal man and his fugitive racoon are back in the spotlight for a trip to get it vaccinated against rabies. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elon Musk is spending big this US Midterm election cycle, just like he did during the 2024 presidential election. Although this time, he's more lowkey about it. He isn't one to join President Trump in the Oval Office with his son in tow, or wear a DOGE hat as he prances around the White House. This time, it's quiet donations to the tune of hundreds of millions into Super PACs like Texas PAC or the Senate Leadership Fund. Host Maria Kestane is speaking to Paris Marx, host of the Tech Won't Save Us podcast and author of Hyperscale: The Ambition and Excess of Big Tech’s Data Empires. They discuss Musk's stake in the Texas Senate race and whether he's aware of his political unpopularity. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: former President Barack Obama took aim at U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, one of the four soldiers killed in the fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright is being remembered as a dedicated brother and friend, British Columbia's Premier-Designate Lorne Doerkson has a long to-do list as he laid out his priorities just one day after his party was elected with about two-thirds of the province's 93 seats in the legislature, and the Ontario-born voice artist behind Looney Tunes characters Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig, has died - Eric Bauza was 46. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

British Columbians have chosen Lorne Doerkson as their next Premier. His victory follows a snap-election call by former Premier David Eby late last month, after Kerry-Lynne Findlay resigned from her role as leader of the BC Conservative Party after some three months on the job. Doerkson was since tapped to become interim leader of the party. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Andrew MacLeod, the BC legislative bureau chief with The Tyee, to discuss how Doerkson and his majority government will meet British Columbians where they're at, what this means for the province's relationship with Indigenous communities, and whether or not Eby is regretting his snap-election call. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show 'In This Economy?!'. Family-owned farms have been at the heart of Canada's economy for decades, and as they grapple with rising costs and a changing economic landscape, the idea of foreign capital may be enticing if executed properly. Host Mike Eppel speaks to Kent Willmore, Founder and CEO of Crescero Natural Capital, a farmland asset management company. They discuss what future institutional investors have in Canadian farming and agriculture, and how to balance family-run operations with the need for capital. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Canada's chief trade negotiator to the United States says Donald Trump will still be U.S. President after the midterm elections and will still drive trade policy. Canada's deepening ties with Europe could help fill some of the massive gaps left by the U.S. pulling back from foreign aid. Proposals that would limit access to provincial services based on immigration status are on track to narrowly pass in Alberta's referendum. The mother of a Canadian soldier killed at a military base in Alberta is remembering her son as passionate and loving. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When was the last time you host a dinner party? Not for special occasion, just for the sake of it. How about the last time you went to one? Odds are, it's been awhile. With generations living in smaller homes, drinking less, and with less expendable income, they're becoming a rarer occurrence. But with the demise of the dinner party, what else are we losing? Host Catherine Jette is speaking with Cathrin Bradbury, a columnist for the Toronto Star, about what the dinner party was and what we're losing as a society as we push its existence to the fringes. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Carney is warning Stelco that it could face legal action if it fails to meet its employment commitments, the federal government will add $1-billion to help build a road to the Ring of Fire region in Northern Ontario, New Brunswick's biggest ocean port is getting a major upgrade, and today marks 12 years since a terrorist attack at the national war memorial and Parliament Hill that shook the country. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Protests have erupted across Europe, as activists seek for radical political and societal change. In France, young people are looking to improve school conditions and access to education. Similar to those in Albania, Italy, and Serbia, where protesters are revolting against government corruption and the cost-of-living crisis. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Paul Waldie, European correspondent for the Globe and Mail to discuss the impact of Gen Z grass-roots movements, how governments could respond to their protesting populations, and when we could see the violence come to an end. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has updated the province on the status of the Canadian Armed Forces soldiers injured during the fire at C-F-B Wainwright, Prime Minister Mark Carney is headed to Turkey today in a bid to deepen ties with a strategic ally, a lawsuit filed in the United States Court of International Trade asks it to declare President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian products illegal and order a refund, and a new report from Food Banks Canada paints a grim picture of the situation across the country. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alberta has decided its fate remains within a united Canada. More than 75% of voters in Monday's historic referendum struck down the idea of separating from the country, a result Prime Minister Mark Carney says he's 'thrilled' about. As the results continue to roll in for the other nine questions, however, the conversation surrounding the province's future is far from over. And so is the question of sovereignty. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with political strategist Zain Velji about what question ten's results mean for Premier Danielle Smith and the UCP, where Alberta's separatists go from here, and how Quebec is taking note of it all. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Residents of Wainwright, Alberta, are mourning the four soldiers killed and 39 injured when a wind-driven grass fire swept through a military training exercise at the Alberta base, interim British Columbia conservative leader Lorne Doerkson says attempts by NDP leader David Eby to "impugn" his patriotism are "disgusting", Canada Border Services Agency says two men were charged after the seizure of 127 kilograms of suspected cocaine at the Ambassador Bridge border crossing in Windsor, Ontario, and a new report finds Canadian kids are still spending too much time staring at a screen. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elizabeth Bain was 22 years old when she went missing from Toronto on June 19, 1990. The details of her disappearance have kept Canadians wondering for years what happened to her. More than 35 years later, new, unreported evidence could bring her case back into focus for investigators and law enforcement alike. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Diana Swain, host of Dateline Canada and Keith Morrison, award-winning correspondent for Dateline NBC to discuss the mystery millions of Canadians have been trying to solve, and the resurfacing of a previous, struck-down theory as to what happened on that day in June. Dateline Canada premieres Thursday, November 26 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Citytv and Citytv+. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre offers condolences to the families of the soldiers who died at CFB Wainwright, Alberta labour leaders say the tragedy that struck over the weekend in the province demonstrates the need for national unity, another former Marineland beluga whale has died, Statistics Canada says the annual pace of inflation rose to 3.1 per cent in September as war in the Middle East continued to drive up gas prices, and how is Canada combatting its drug problem? We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A BC Supreme Court judge found that a section of Canada's Controlled Drug and Substances Act was unconstitutional, and gave Ottawa six months to fix it. The ruling came after a pair of drug activists, Eris Nyx and Jeremy Kalicum, were convicted on drug trafficking charges after their downtown Vancouver compassion club, DULF, was raided by police in 2023. Their charges have since been stayed. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Michelle Gamage, a health reporter from The Tyee, and Dr. Dan Small, a medical anthropologist with the University of British Columbia to discuss the politicization of harm reduction efforts, and how initiatives like DULF could be the solution to BC's drug crisis. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!". A.I. is spreading like wildfire across workplaces. Canadian workers in multiple industries are being increasingly asked to engage with the tool by their employers. But are they ready for it? Are they getting the training they need to use A.I. both effectively and, most importantly, safely? Host Mike Eppel is speaking with Sam Jenkins, Managing Partner and co-founder of Punchcard Systems, about the results of a study they conducted about how workers in heavy industries are being asked to use Artificial Intelligence, and whether they’re getting the support they need. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: A community in Oregon gathered to remember three children killed in a shooting at an elementary school, drone attacks on cargo ships in the Black Sea this month have raised concerns among NATO members, the Snowbirds Aerial Demonstration Team will perform at their final air show in Moose Jaw, and what was Ryan Wedding's endgame? We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some ten months after disgraced Olympian-turned drug lord, Ryan Wedding, was arrested in Mexico, the details surrounding how he was taken into custody and what exactly he was after remain unclear. Prior to his arrest in late January, Wedding was placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list with a $15 million reward. Mexican officials say he handed himself over to officials, while US authorities say the FBI arrested him in Mexico. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Michelle Shephard, journalist and filmmaker, and Calvi Leon, investigative reporter for the Toronto Star about their new podcast 'The Most Wanted Olympian'. The six-part investigative series digs into Wedding's web of associates who helped him run one of the most notorious drug rings until his luck ran out. Listen to the series here: https://link.mgln.ai/TMWOxTBS We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: a Montreal man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing his nine-year-old daughter and leaving her body in a marsh in rural upstate New York, the latest on a deadly roof collapse of a Pakistani school, Pope Leo continues to recover from lung surgery, and Pierre Poilievre's impossible Alberta balancing act. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In less than a week, Albertans will head to the polls to vote on a series of ten referendum questions, one of which brings the province's sovereignty into focus. For the past several months, support for separation has dwindled, as both former and current politicians continue to plead with Albertans to reconsider thoughts of separation Among the current names that have stayed out of the spotlight for the most part, however, is Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Other than a handful of speaking events, he hasn't been as loud as other figures in making the case for federalism. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Duane Bratt, a political scientist with Mount Royal University to discuss how vital a Tory voice could be at this point, and whether or not decided-Albertans could be swayed either way. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: A U.S. judge has ordered an American accused of helping plan the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. to remain in custody until trial, a Montreal man found guilty of drowning his young daughter in a creek in upstate New York in 2025 is set to be sentenced in Essex County court, the Pope is doing well following lung surgery, and the latest on the micromobility debate. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E-bikes and e-scooters are having their moment across North America. Along with the popularity comes the criticism against them, citing safety concerns, etiquette, lack of regulation and more. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Ahmed El-Geneidy, a professor at McGill University’s School of Urban Planning about the explosion of micromobility, what infrastructure is needed across provinces to keep everyone safe, and who bears the responsibility for when things go south. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Canada has joined more than two dozen countries in denouncing Iran's apparent involvement in a planned attack on an airbase in England, dramatic moments on board a Delta flight from Los Angeles to New York, a rollercoaster catastrophe in the U.S., shocking stats on the future of dementia around the world, and Anthony Scaramucci, host of the Rest is Politics, talks Trump, Carney and the trade war. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's hard to think of a time in the modern age when relations between the U.S. and Canada were at a lower point. Since U.S. President Donald Trump started the trade war, tensions have risen, while Canadian's opinion of our neighbour to the south have fallen. While some politicians and commentators south of the border have taken aim at Canada and Prime Minister Mark Carney's handling of the relationship, others are glad someone is finally standing up to Trump. Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Anthony Scaramucci, host of the Rest is Politics: US, former White House Communications Director, and Managing Partner at Skybridge Capital, about the relationship between Canada and the U.S., how Americans view the trade war, and why he believes Carney now "leads the West." We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!". With Thanksgiving days away-- it's time to start thinking about Christmas. At least that's the case for PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada, an accounting firm which has done their annual survey on where families and individuals are at in terms of budgets as they head into the holiday season, and what it could mean for retailers. Host Mike Eppel is speaking with Adam Boutros, National Consumer Markets Leader Partner at PwC, about consumer trends, what people are planning to spend, a generation divide, and how AI factors in to it all. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: The chief executive of Stelco's U.S-based parent company says hundreds of Southern Ontario steelworkers facing temporary layoffs will be recalled if Canada and the U.S. reach a trade deal on steel. Former Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne says she saw parallels between herself and Christine Frechette as Quebec's election results came in. Canadian poet Anne Carson won the Nobel Prize in literature, but not much is known about her personal life. Also, what we know and don't know about the Russian lab tech that died, her work with the plague, and if we should be worried or not. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The death of a lab worker in Russia has raised fears of the plague. Authorities claim she died of pneumonia from an unknown origin, but have yet to release any other details surrounding if there's a connection to the lab she worked at. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Angela Rasmussen, a virologist and the Science Chair for the Save America movement, then she's joined by Maria Popova, a political scientist from McGill University. They discuss what we know about the pneumonic plague, its chances of breaking out into another global pandemic, and about the challenges of dealing with an authoritarian country like Russia, when communication is so key in a potential crisis. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

British Columbia NDP leader David Eby says Ottawa needs to impose minimum standards on all social media companies and AI companies requiring that threats of violence be reported to the police. Canada’s Defence Minister is in Alberta to highlight the billions of military dollars being spent there, with less than two weeks to go before Albertans vote on whether it’s time to quit confederation. The Parti Quebecois says it's asking for a recount in a Montreal-area riding that it lost to the Liberals by a narrow margin. Canadian poet Anne Carson wins the Nobel Prize in Literature. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When a person hacks a government website, it's illegal. But when a rogue AI agent does it, it's an incident that needs 'further investigation'. Canada has invested billions of dollars into AI infrastructure and education, and although safety is a top priority according to Ottawa, robust legislation and regulation to govern the software has not kept up with the momentum. Host Maria Kestane is speaking with Takara Small, a technology journalist, about who's held to account for AI's mass destruction, and why top-down legislation isn't the end-all be-all for a solution. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Christine Fréchette is resigning as leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec, but will stay on as premier until her P.Q. successor is sworn in. Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Turkey from October 21st to 23rd as Canada seeks stronger trade, defence and investment ties with the NATO ally. Countries around the world are pushing Russia for more information about the death of a 28-year-old researcher who worked at a lab studying plagues in Siberia. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has been voted in as Quebec's newest Premier. His party, Parti Québécois, secured their minority government on Monday night's election with 59 seats, up from three seats back in 2022. Among his plans for the province, he eyes holding a referendum in a push to separate Quebec from Canada. And although Plamondon promised to wait until US President Trump left the White House, the new Premier would still need to gain the support from the other provincial parties. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to André Lecours, a political science professor at the University of Ottawa to discuss what PSPP's win means for the province, its future in Canada, and for Prime Minister Carney's tenure. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Health care and taxes dominate the election campaign in British Columbia with the Conservatives criticizing the NDP's record, the Manitoba government is proposing changes that would eliminate window coverings on all cannabis storefronts because of safety concerns, the head coach of Canada's men's soccer team says he has a unique perspective when it comes to speaking out on political issues, and what Avi Lewis thinks of Ottawa's Bill C-39. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ottawa is furthering its pursuit of building a stronger, more sovereign Canada. Bill C-39, the Build Canada Strong Act is the latest omnibus legislation that aims to reform parts of the Canadian Labour Code, as well as streamline projects deemed of 'national interest' . Critics, however, say the bill throws environmental protection, Indigenous consultation and workers' rights all into limbo. Among those critics is Federal NDP Leader, Avi Lewis. Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Mr. Lewis to discuss who he thinks gets left behind in the bill, what tweaks are needed to protect workers, and why Prime Minister Carney's goals seem to be less in the interest of Canadians and more in the interest of foreign investors. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus: Cornell's Jane Doe has received multiple threats to withdraw her lawsuit, Florida voters are deciding whether to scrap property tax with Canadians potentially having to foot the bill, a dozen people are isolating after a lab worker dies in Russia from pneumonia of an 'unknown origin', a new report says screen time and social media use should be deemed a public health issue, and how can Canada improve on its universal child-care system? We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ontario has become the latest province to extend their $10-a-day childcare deal with the federal government. It's a policy that's undoubtably reduced prices for Canadians, but that doesn't mean it's become more accessible. A crisis of affordability has become one of availability, as the number of open spots across the province is far fewer than the demand for them. So, what needs to happen to make Canada's "universal childcare" program actually universal? Host Caryn Ceolin is speaking with Martha Friendly, the Executive Director of the Childcare Resource and Research Unit, about how the system is working, how it's not, and how Canada can better fulfil the promises of its newest large social program. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!". The drama around Canada-U.S. trade and U.S. President Trump's ramp up in rhetoric might all be connected to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to push back. Many of us are now watching closely and voters south of the border prepare to vote in their midterms, where Canadians are hoping a Democratic congress could put a check on Trump. However, one longtime watcher of Canada-US relations says its not clear if things will change. Host Kris McCusker speaks to Ron Stagg, Professor Emeritus of history from Toronto Metropolitan University about how things have played out, why it’s unusual, and how the trade war could end up being a good thing. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.