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
Jul 16, 2025 • 11min
Republicans say Canadian wildfire smoke is ruining summer
Canadian wildfires are severely impacting air quality across North America, prompting political backlash from some Republicans. Expert Ed Struzik highlights the flaws in current forest management and debates the effectiveness of preventive measures. The discussion tackles the challenges faced by boreal communities struggling with wildfires, the spread of misinformation about fire management, and the need for better public communication. It also advocates for improved prediction techniques and investment in firefighting resources to combat evolving wildfire threats.
Jul 16, 2025 • 19min
Canada’s Gaza visa program failing Palestinian-Canadians
Omar Omar, founder of the Gazan Canadian Families League, and Debbie Rackless, a Toronto-based immigration lawyer, dive into the failures of Canada's temporary resident visa program for Palestinians. They discuss heart-wrenching delays and the emotional toll on families separated by conflict. The pair emphasize the need for urgent reforms to ensure better processing and support, reflecting on the bureaucratic challenges that leave many stranded. Personal narratives highlight the stark contrast between Canada's response and those of other countries, underlining the pressing need for effective action.
Jul 16, 2025 • 11min
Acadian musician gets appointed to the Order of Canada
Ronald Bourgeois, a renowned Acadian musician and producer, has spent over fifty years championing Acadian culture and was recently appointed to the Order of Canada. He shares how this honor shapes his identity and highlights the importance of music in preserving heritage. Reflecting on his childhood in the diverse musical community of Chetikamp, he discusses the charming blend of local traditions. The conversation also delves into the role of social media in reviving Acadian culture and the powerful connection between love and music.
Jul 15, 2025 • 25min
How does experimental archaeology bring the past alive?
Explore the fascinating world of experimental archaeology, where ancient practices come alive! Discover how recreating meals like bread and beer offers insights into historic diets, possibly revealing that brewing spurred early farming. Dive into the artistry of Roman hairstyles, crafted with techniques based on museum busts. Plus, hear how indigenous voices contribute invaluable perspectives to the field, challenging mainstream theories about ancient civilizations. It's a captivating journey through history, food, and culture!
Jul 15, 2025 • 20min
Is Canada ready for driverless cars?
Stephen Waslander, director of the Toronto Robotics and AI Laboratory, and Bilal Farouk, Canada Research Chair in Disruptive Transportation Technologies, explore the future of driverless cars in Canada. They discuss a new robot delivery vehicle pilot project in Toronto, revealing both public excitement and hesitation. The experts delve into challenges such as navigating Canadian winter conditions, public safety, job impacts, and privacy concerns. Their insights highlight opportunities for innovation while addressing crucial regulatory and technological hurdles.
Jul 14, 2025 • 20min
Should some rural ERs be closed permanently?
Tim Vine, President and CEO of the North Shore Health Network, discusses the crisis in Canada's rural emergency rooms, where closures and staffing shortages have become alarmingly frequent. He highlights the staggering loss of over a million hours of care since 2019, emphasizing how these facilities are crucial for small communities. Vine also explores potential solutions and the critical need for improved health data transparency to enhance patient access. The conversation raises important questions about the future viability of emergency care in rural areas.
Jul 14, 2025 • 24min
How a bowl of borscht helped a writer confront the Holocaust
Bonnie Reichert, a Canadian journalist-turned-chef, shares her father's harrowing Holocaust survival story and her own journey with intergenerational trauma. She reflects on a poignant moment over borscht in Poland, where she confronts the weight of her family's history. Reichert explores how culinary traditions foster resilience and connection, revealing the healing power of food in addressing emotional scars. Her transformative decision to attend culinary school serves as a path to self-discovery, intertwining her passion for cooking with her family's legacy.
