The Current
CBC
Three stories to expand your worldview, delivered daily. Matt Galloway cuts through a sea of choice to bring you stories that transcend the news cycle. Conversations with big thinkers, household names, and people living the news. An antidote to algorithms that cater to what you already know — and a meeting place for diverse perspectives. In its 20 years, the Current has become a go-to place for stories that shape and entertain us. Released daily, Monday to Friday.The Current is produced in Toronto, Ontario, Canada — and has recently recorded live shows about the Canadian election in Surrey and Burnaby BC. And shows to come in Oshawa and the 905, Red Deer, Alberta, Quebec City and Halifax.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 8, 2025 • 21min
Dave Bidini of the Rheostatics on the band's new album
Dave Badini, a founding member of the Rheostatics and an influential Canadian musician and author, dives into the band's new album and their evolution over 45 years. He shares inspiration drawn from the Great Lakes and the impactful collaborations with artists like Tanya Tagaq and Gord Downie. Badini discusses the importance of including Indigenous voices in their music, reflecting on Canada's identity and advocating for local stories. The conversation highlights the joy of touring Canada and capturing the essence of shared experiences in their sound.
Dec 8, 2025 • 12min
Is regime change in Venezuela imminent?
Phil Gunson, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, shares insights from Caracas on the mounting pressures in Venezuela. He discusses U.S. military threats and their implications for daily life in crisis-ridden Venezuela. Gunson explains how Venezuelans perceive these threats as intimidation tactics against Maduro, whose regime he assesses as resilient yet conflicted. He warns of the risks of forced regime change, including the potential for power vacuums and prolonged conflict, while shedding light on the complexities of Venezuela's drug trade and the role of oil.
Dec 8, 2025 • 20min
Can "Buy Now, Pay Later" lead to money problems?
Shannon Lee Simmons, a certified financial planner and founder of the New School of Finance, and Bruce Sellery, CEO of Credit Canada, dive into the pitfalls of buy now, pay later (BNPL) services. They discuss how these tempting offers can lead to overspending, especially among younger consumers facing cash flow pressures. The duo highlights psychological aspects, like emotional spending, and the potential mental health toll of accumulating debt. They also provide tips on using BNPL wisely and the importance of setting spending boundaries.
Dec 8, 2025 • 14min
The first female crash test dummy prepares to hit the road
Chris O'Connor, CEO of Humanetics and the 'father of the modern crash test dummy,' discusses a groundbreaking shift in vehicle safety. He reveals that traditional crash test dummies were male-based, leaving women at higher injury risk. O'Connor introduces the Thor 5F, the first female crash test dummy, designed to address specific injuries women face. He explains how new sensors are crucial for measuring lower-leg and abdominal impacts. O'Connor highlights the importance of regulations and advocacy, like the She Drives Act, in advancing vehicle safety standards for all.
Dec 5, 2025 • 14min
‘Make the Season Kind’ with CBC
Anne Penman, a longtime CBC producer, discusses her decades-long role in leading the Make the Season Kind campaign to support food banks in British Columbia. She highlights the increasing demand for food assistance, with more families and young people relying on these vital services. Anne shares heartening stories of community kindness and the welcoming atmosphere in food banks. Her insights reveal how innovation and partnerships help meet rising needs, while reflecting on the powerful impact of kindness in addressing food insecurity.
Dec 5, 2025 • 14min
Does Canada stand a chance in the 2026 world cup?
Join soccer journalist John Molinaro, founder of tfcrepublic.ca, and political scientist Aaron Ettinger as they dive into Canada's hopes for the 2026 World Cup. They discuss the significance of Canada's historic qualification and evaluate the team’s potential. Molinaro shares insights on the vibrant atmosphere in Toronto and Vancouver, while Ettinger explores the political dynamics surrounding mega-events. Their conversation highlights the intersection of sport and politics, leaving listeners contemplating whether soccer can rise above the political fray.
Dec 5, 2025 • 20min
What’s the future of the Canada-US-Mexico trade deal?
Join Pete Kappelman, a fourth-generation dairy farmer, as he shares insights on U.S. dairy frustrations with limited access to Canadian markets under USMCA. Ed Bristwa highlights why technology firms deem the trade deal essential for global competitiveness and seeks a 16-year extension. Laura Dawson discusses the importance of Canada in U.S. trade and interprets the ongoing review process as a chance for thoughtful updates rather than drastic changes. Together, they navigate the intricacies of North American trade dynamics.
Dec 5, 2025 • 21min
This new drug could be a game-changer for HIV/AIDS
Dr. Darrell Tan, an infectious disease physician and Canadian HIV prevention leader, discusses the groundbreaking drug lenacapavir, which promises a revolutionary six-month injectable option for HIV prevention. He emphasizes the need for Canadian doctors to advocate for equitable access to this treatment. Dr. Catherine Martin, a senior researcher from Johannesburg, highlights the critical real-world testing of lenacapavir in southern Africa, particularly for young women, and addresses the challenges of implementation, including cost and regulatory hurdles.
Dec 4, 2025 • 10min
Confusion for BC Cons
Rob Shaw, a political reporter based in Victoria and host of the Political Capital podcast, dives into the chaotic leadership dispute in the BC Conservatives. John Rustad claims he's still the leader, despite the party naming an interim head. The tension escalates as MLAs express confusion over the legality of the vote. Rob discusses the 'quasi-coup,' the deep divisions within the party, and doubts over anyone's ability to bridge the gaps. He also touches on the awkward aftermath and how Premier David Eby may benefit from the Conservatives' turmoil.
Dec 4, 2025 • 20min
How sustainable is the Buy Canadian movement?
In this discussion, Julie Brown, co-founder of Province of Canada, reveals how her focus on local manufacturing nearly doubled her sales. Josephine Au, owner of Emery, shares her challenges with U.S. tariffs and how local support bolstered her brand. Melise Panetta, a marketing lecturer, analyzes the attitude-behavior gap, showing that while Canadians favor buying local, financial pressures complicate follow-through. The conversation highlights the impact of consumer choices on local economies and the persistent challenges faced by small businesses.
