The Current

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Host Matt Galloway interviews Rick and Amanda Hansen about the new documentary, 'Man in Motion, the Rick Hansen story'. The conversation explores the physical and emotional challenges of Hansen's 1980s global wheelchair tour, including the lack of worldwide accessibility and moments of near-despair. The episode also delves into their personal relationship, the profound impact of public support upon his return to Canada, and the lasting inspiration Hansen drew from the legacy of Terry Fox.

An investigation into a mysterious collection of thousands of photographs captured during the social upheavals of the 1960s. The collection, discovered in an abandoned storage locker, features iconic figures like Jerry Garcia and Muhammad Ali, yet the identity of the photographer remains unknown. San Francisco-based photographer Bill Delzell and Canadian film archivist Gerald Freyer discuss the ongoing search for clues to identify the person behind the lens. The discussion explores the technical challenges of preserving 60-year-old undeveloped film through Film Rescue International in Saskatchewan. The episode also draws parallels to the Charles Daniels collection and reflects on the historical value of unmanipulated, permanent imagery in an increasingly digital and AI-driven era.

Economists discuss the current state of the Canadian economy, focusing on the challenges of high inflation driven by energy prices and the impact of trade wars on the labor market. The discussion highlights the Bank of Canada's dilemma in managing supply-side shocks using interest rate tools that primarily affect demand. The conversation further explores economic challenges including job losses in manufacturing and the need to address the 'cost of care' within industrial policy. The speakers debate whether recent government efforts to attract investment will lead to long-term productivity or if more guardrails are needed to ensure domestic growth.

Host Matt Galloway and political correspondent Aswin Subisang discuss the controversial political advertising campaign in the Ohio gubernatorial race between Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton. The conversation focuses on a highly personal attack ad that utilizes allegations of past trauma to target Acton, sparking cross-partisan outrage and defense from high-profile Republican figures including Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. The discussion explores whether this aggressive, personalized campaigning represents a broader national trend in the 2026 midterm elections. Subisang provides insight into the high stakes of the Ohio race for control of the U.S. Senate and the potential for a significant electoral shift in a traditionally red state due to the backlash against such visceral political tactics.

Host Matt Galloway interviews David Remnick of The New Yorker regarding the political landscape following the October 7th attacks. They discuss Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership, the rise of military figure Gadi Eisenkot, and the complexities of navigating the simultaneous traumas of the Hamas attack and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Remnick also explores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia, and the political landscape in the United States. He reflects on the potential for American democratic renewal despite current political polarization, corruption, and the perceived erosion of diplomatic norms.

Host Matt Galloway interviews Jesse Wente about his new book, which explores the personal and professional fallout from an investigation into director Michelle Latimer's Indigenous identity. Wente discusses how the controversy triggered deep-seated anxieties regarding his own Anishinaabe identity and led him through a period of severe mental health struggles. Wente also reflects on a period of intense personal crisis involving suicidal ideation and a heart attack, which forced him to shift from an intellectualized existence to one focused on physical and spiritual healing. He discusses finding mindfulness through golf and learning the difference between 'doing' and 'being' as an Anishinaabe person.

This episode of The Current Podcast examines the rapid spread of a rare Ebola strain in the DRC and Nigeria, highlighting the significant challenges regarding community trust and medical response. Through interviews with Heather Kerr and Dr. Scott Halperin, the discussion explores the development of an mRNA vaccine trial in Canada designed to address this specific strain. The episode also addresses the risks posed by global connectivity and the potential for Ebola to enter Canada via travel. Featuring insights from clinical trial participant Cindy Michaluk, the conversation covers the motivations behind participating in medical research and the hope that accelerated clinical trials can help end outbreaks in Africa.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews author Malcolm Gladwell about his new book, 'The American Way of Killing'. Gladwell examines the complexities and misunderstandings surrounding gun violence in the United States, arguing that much of the national debate focuses on the wrong issues, such as mass shootings and cosmetic assault rifle bans, rather than addressing more prevalent problems like firearm suicides. The discussion also explores how community-based interventions and personal relationships led to a significant decrease in homicides in Baltimore. Gladwell further argues that the American debate over policing is fundamentally flawed due to severe understaffing compared to other industrialized nations, suggesting that redirecting funds from prisons toward social services and community-oriented policing could improve public safety.

This episode of The Current discusses the high-profile return of Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors for the 2026 NBA season. Host Matt Galloway and guest S. Baraheni, co-host of The Athletic NBA Daily Podcast, explore the implications of this blockbuster trade, including the player's recent social media announcement and the lingering controversy surrounding salary cap circumvention allegations during his time with the LA Clippers. The conversation also touches upon the current state of the Raptors roster, which features a young core led by players like Scottie Barnes. The discussion concludes by reflecting on the legacy of Kyle Lowry, who recently retired as a Raptor, and the broader growth of basketball culture within Canada.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, Matt Galloway interviews Sarah Taylor, Canada's outgoing ambassador to Russia, about her three-year posting in Moscow. They discuss the challenges of diplomacy under high-stakes geopolitical tension, including surveillance, the impact of sanctions on Russian oil revenue, and the current state of political dissent within Russia. Ambassador Taylor also discusses the threats of hybrid and cognitive warfare, specifically regarding Russian disinformation and drone incursions. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with the Russian dissident community in exile and maintaining communication with the Russian people to promote alternative visions for their country's future.

An episode of The Current Podcast covering the aftermath of a devastating fire during a military training exercise at CFB Wainwright in Alberta. The program features an interview with Teresa Hyatt, whose brother, Corporal Sean Hyatt, is currently in intensive care with extensive burns following the incident. The episode also includes an interview with Diana Fastejo, executive director of the Legacy Place Society, discussing the massive outpouring of support from Canadians and the logistical challenges of providing housing for families traveling from across the country to be near the injured soldiers.

In this episode of The Current Podcast, host Matt Galloway interviews chef Eric Ripert about his spiritual journey and his new book, Mindful Cooking. Ripert discusses how Buddhism has shaped his life and culinary philosophy, emphasizing the importance of being present and practicing gratitude during the cooking process. Ripert also explores the intersection of Buddhist principles and meat consumption, explaining how he balances his restaurant's seafood menu with a mindful approach to animal welfare. He further discusses the importance of compassion and finding joy through mindfulness in the high-pressure environment of a professional kitchen.