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
4 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 46min
Fareed Zakaria on MAGA, Trump and backlash politics
Fareed Zakaria, a renowned journalist and author of Age of Revolutions, delves into the dynamics of the MAGA movement, suggesting its emergence was a natural response to rapid societal changes. He discusses the distinction between economic and social status loss, linking community erosion to rising nostalgia and anger. Zakaria emphasizes the historical patterns of backlash, compares Trump’s actions to Mao's Cultural Revolution, and expresses concerns over democratic decay. He also advocates for asylum reform to maintain immigration support amid global anti-elite sentiments.
Nov 14, 2025 • 11min
Robert Munsch’s donates personal archive to Guelph library
Dan Atkins, CEO of the Guelph Public Library, shares exciting insights about beloved children's author Robert Munsch's donation of his personal archive to his hometown library. Munsch aims to make his stories accessible to all, rather than hiding them away. Dan recalls how Munsch’s lively storytelling captivates children's imaginations and encourages community engagement. He discusses the archive's contents, including drafts and personal letters, highlighting its invaluable role for families and readers in Guelph and beyond.
Nov 13, 2025 • 25min
How a luxury hotel in Afghanistan tells the story of a nation
Lyse Doucet, a Canadian journalist and BBC Chief International Correspondent, shares insights from her book about the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, a landmark reflecting Afghanistan's tumultuous history. She explores how the hotel's narratives embody the nation's memory and hospitality. Doucet highlights the journey of Hazrat, a dedicated hotel staff member, and Abeda, the first female sous chef, illustrating women's evolving roles post-2001. She emphasizes the importance of personal stories in journalism to foster global connections and hopes for a future where independent reporting prevails.
Nov 13, 2025 • 14min
Pressure on the White House to release full Epstein files
Anthony Zurcher, the BBC North America correspondent and co-host of AmeriCast, dives into the fallout from newly released emails tied to Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump. Discover how these emails hint at a closer relationship than previously acknowledged, and whether they suggest Trump knew about Epstein's activities. Zurcher discusses the growing pressure on the White House for transparency and the complexities within the GOP regarding the release of Epstein files. Plus, explore implications of a potential Trump pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell.
Nov 13, 2025 • 20min
Three Conservatives reflect on Pierre Poilievre not reflecting
Join Ginny Roth, a former communications director for Pierre Poilievre, Regan Watts, a finance minister aide turned strategist, and Erika Barootes, a Conservative commentator, as they dissect the recent turmoil in the Conservative Party. The trio unpacks the mood following two MP resignations and navigates the complexities of caucus dynamics. They question Polievre's leadership style and communication approach, debating whether he needs a new strategy to connect with a broader voter base. Insightful and candid, their discussion reveals the intricate balance of party identity.
Nov 13, 2025 • 11min
Gen Z wants you to know where they are
Hannah Alper, a journalist and commentator known for her insights on Gen Z culture, dives into the fascinating landscape of location sharing. She reflects on her own experiences, describing how platforms like Snap Maps and Find My have normalized constant visibility, yet also raise privacy concerns. Alper discusses the social pressures and safety motives behind sharing one's location while raising alarm over the feeling of surveillance. She offers advice on reclaiming privacy in a world where being 'unfindable' feels increasingly alien.
Nov 12, 2025 • 20min
Flu season is here: What you need to know
Dr. Alison McGeer, a microbiologist and infectious disease physician from Mount Sinai Hospital, discusses the alarming spread of the evolving H3N2 strain of influenza and the crucial role of flu vaccinations. Dr. Joss Reimer, Chief Medical Officer for Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, dives into the erosion of public trust in vaccines, highlighting the impact of misinformation and the need for better outreach. They emphasize that even a mismatched vaccine offers significant protection and share strategies for rebuilding public confidence in vaccination.
8 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 24min
Me + Viv: How can we navigate human-AI relationships?
Alexandra Samuel, a technology journalist and creator of the AI coach 'Viv', shares her journey in exploring human-AI relationships. She discusses the profound self-reflection Viv facilitated during her 10-week coaching period, highlighting the risks of emotional dependency. Alexandra emphasizes the importance of understanding Viv's limitations and the dangers of treating AI as sentient. With a live demonstration of Viv's capabilities, she addresses how AI can support but not replace human connections, urging listeners to maintain boundaries.
Nov 12, 2025 • 24min
How can you improve your and your kids’ smartphone habits?
In this engaging discussion, Kaitlyn Regehr, an associate professor and author of Smartphone Nation, unpacks the addictive design of our devices and its impacts on families. She shares vital tips for parents to foster healthier smartphone habits in their kids. They delve into the importance of understanding algorithms, the risks of sharenting, and the challenges of discussing online content like pornography with teens. Kaitlyn emphasizes moderation and education, providing listeners with practical strategies for navigating the digital landscape.
Nov 11, 2025 • 26min
How a bear attack story helped this author understand her cancer diagnosis
Claire Cameron, an award-winning author fascinated by bears and wilderness, shares how a bear attack story shaped her understanding of her cancer diagnosis. She reflects on her obsession with bears since her teens, her personal journey through melanoma, and how facing mortality led her to confront her fears. The conversation delves into the intelligence of bears, her creative block after surgery, and the narrative shift towards understanding the bear's perspective. Ultimately, Claire emphasizes choosing life over fear and redefining her relationship with nature.
