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
Aug 11, 2025 • 19min
Allegations of arson as wildfires rage across eastern Canada
Wildfires are burning across Newfoundland and Labrador, prompting the provincial government to significantly increase fines and prison time for people who violate a fire ban. We speak to Scott Chandler, who lost his home in Conception Bay North, and ask Premier John Hogan about investigations into allegations of arson — and the latest on the firefighting effort. Plus, we hear from Janet Barlow of Hike Nova Scotia about the province’s sweeping ban on activities in wooded areas and the impact on outdoor recreation.
Aug 8, 2025 • 24min
What to know about the dark side of skin-lightening?
Following decades of colourism shaped by colonialism, racism, and media, lighter skin was often seen as more desirable, even within Black communities. Now, that idea is experiencing “The Great Shift” on social media. We talk about the cultural turn where darker skin tones are being embraced, and the long-term health risks of skin-lightening creams and drugs.
Aug 8, 2025 • 19min
E-scooters might be fun, but are they safe?
They're cheap, ecofriendly, and fun. E-scooters are growing in popularity across Canada, but they are also safety concerns. A new report shows injuries caused when riding two-wheeled vehicles are higher than ever before. We talk about what needs to be done to regulate e-scooters better and keep riders safe.
Aug 7, 2025 • 12min
What makes Victoria Mboko a tennis star?
Victoria Mboko is only 18 years old, and she has already become a tennis sensation — and is capturing the hearts of millions of Canadians. At the Women's National Bank Open semi-finals in Montreal Wednesday night, she won against the former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, becoming one win away from taking the title. We discuss how the only Canadian woman left in the tournament rose to the top and how she is just getting started.
Aug 7, 2025 • 19min
A look inside the aid airdrops into Gaza
For months, getting aid into Gaza has been near impossible. This week, Canada made its first humanitarian airdrop during a multinational mission led by Jordan. CBC’s international correspondent, Susan Ormiston, was on board the Jordanian plane. She brings us that story and explains how these aid drops compare to the real need on the ground in Gaza.
Aug 7, 2025 • 12min
How can Canada have closer trade ties with Mexico?
When Canada was imposed with 35 percent tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump last week, Mexico received a 90-day extension on trade talks. So, in the face of two very different trade talks with the U.S., Canada is working to strengthen its economic ties with Mexico. We discuss what closer trade ties between Canada and Mexico could entail, and how Canada should adjust its approach to trade talks with PresidentTrump.
Aug 6, 2025 • 23min
Why dark skies across Canada are drawing tourists
When was the last time you looked up at the stars on a clear night? Since time immemorial, humans have looked to the night sky for their survival. It signalled when to harvest. And helped explorers navigate the seas. But these days, if you're in the bright lights of the city, you may have to travel far to see the Milky Way. Now, remote communities across Canada are looking to their dark skies for potential economic opportunities - something called "astrotourism."
Aug 6, 2025 • 20min
The E.P.A. is set to roll back years of climate change policy
Last week, the Trump administration announced that the E.P.A. planned to rescind the 2009 declaration, known as the endangerment finding. The proposal would eliminate limits on greenhouse gas emissions, particularly for cars and trucks. Guest host Sean Henry speaks with scientists both in the US and in Canada about the consequences for the fight against climate change.
Aug 5, 2025 • 15min
How to get patients moving? Take them for a walk, this doctor says
Ohio doctor David Sabgir realized that asking his patients to get out and exercise wasn't working. So, he laces up his running shoes and hits the pavement with them. The program, called Walk With A Doc, has spread to more than 500 communities around the globe. Dr. Sabgir explains the difference walking has made for his patients — and his own practice.
Aug 5, 2025 • 10min
How does Summer McIntosh keep breaking records?
It is a Summer to remember. 18-year-old Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh continues to dominate after she won four gold and a bronze at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships. We talk to her former coach about what makes her keep breaking records, and how she's keeping her champion mindset alive.
