Front Burner The stories that shaped our year
Dec 24, 2025
The hosts reflect on the biggest global stories of 2025, from wars to AI and U.S. politics affecting Canada. They highlight how Canada rose to international prominence and discuss the audience's growing interest in Canadian politics. Insights into producing a controversial episode on internet figures reveal the necessity of contextual expertise. Additionally, they touch on the challenge of covering conflicts with compassion and share their ambitious plans for more on-the-ground reporting in 2026.
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Canada Suddenly In The Global Spotlight
- Canada was unusually central on the world stage in 2025, driven by trade tensions and global instability.
- The U.S. administration's actions and rhetoric made Canadian audiences and leaders rethink geopolitical assumptions.
Canadian Politics Drove Listener Demand
- Canadian politics dominated listener interest and show downloads in 2025.
- Fifteen-plus of the top episodes were about Canadian politics, reflecting intense domestic engagement.
Explaining 'Meme Shooters' With Aiden Walker
- After Charlie Kirk's assassination, Front Burner probed online 'meme shooters' and how fringe culture migrates symbols.
- Producers brought in Aiden Walker, who explained how ironic, nihilistic online worlds can mask real violent intent.