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 11, 2025 • 11min
Who picks the next Dalai Lama? Why China and Tibet are at odds
In this captivating discussion, Sherap Therchin, the Executive Director of the Canada-Tibet Committee, sheds light on the intense debate over who will succeed the 90-year-old Dalai Lama. He reveals the traditional methods for selecting a successor and the looming possibility of rival Dalai Lamas amid Chinese influence. Therchin also discusses the challenges Tibetans face in preserving their cultural identity against political pressures and the historical suppression they have endured, making this a critical conversation about faith and sovereignty.
Jul 11, 2025 • 18min
Two moms, two wild fires, one shared grief
Brooke Kindel, who lost her home in Denare Beach shortly before giving birth, shares her harrowing journey through loss and grief. Joining her is Meghan Fandrich, a Lytton survivor who faced similar devastation. They discuss the emotional toll of wildfires, the importance of community support, and their paths to rebuilding. Their conversations highlight the painstaking process of accepting loss, parenting amidst chaos, and finding resilience in the ashes of tragedy.
Jul 10, 2025 • 19min
How deep does extremism run in Canada’s Armed Forces?
Jessica Davis, a former CSIS analyst and current consultant, along with Amarnath Amarasingam, an associate professor at Queen's University, dive into the troubling case of two Canadian Armed Forces members charged with terrorism for their anti-government plot. They discuss how this incident highlights the concerning rise of ideologically motivated violent extremism in Canada’s military. The pair explore motivations behind such radicalization, the parallels with U.S. extremism, and the urgent need for the Armed Forces to develop effective strategies to address these issues.
Jul 10, 2025 • 25min
Order of Canada: Honouring a life in diplomacy
Don Campbell and Alex Bugailiskis, two distinguished Canadian diplomats recently appointed to the Order of Canada, share their remarkable journeys in international relations. They discuss the pivotal role of trade agreements like NAFTA in shaping Canada's economy and the challenges facing the international rules-based order. Reflecting on global engagement, they highlight Canada's responsibilities in humanitarian efforts, including the resettlement of Syrian refugees. Their insights on modern diplomacy offer a hopeful perspective for future leaders in navigating today's complexities.
Jul 9, 2025 • 24min
Why John Green is obsessed with tuberculosis
John Green, renowned novelist and YouTuber, shares his compelling journey into the world of tuberculosis, sparked by a visit to a TB hospital in Sierra Leone. He discusses his book, Everything is Tuberculosis, where he tells the poignant story of a young patient named Henry. The conversation dives into the stark healthcare inequities and systemic issues surrounding TB treatment, drawing moral questions about public health policies. Green highlights the importance of using his platform for advocacy, stressing the need to combat stigma and raise awareness about this curable yet deadly disease.
Jul 9, 2025 • 19min
Alberta’s pro-Canada forces fight back against separatism
Political science professor Barry Cooper shares his perspective on Alberta's rising separatism. He argues that a lack of interest from central Canada may push Alberta towards independence. Special attention is given to the complexities of renegotiating terms of confederation and the historical context fueling this movement. The discussion dives into the economic and political challenges Alberta would face if it pursued autonomy, along with the personal stories that shape Canadian identity in this heated national debate.
Jul 8, 2025 • 19min
How close is a ceasefire in Gaza?
Shaima Al-Obaidi works with Save the Children, shedding light on the immense challenges of delivering aid in Gaza, where people risk their lives just to obtain food. Dahlia Scheindlin, a political analyst and author, discusses the growing pressures on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu as public sentiment shifts against ongoing conflict. They explore the urgent humanitarian crisis and the complex political landscape defining efforts for a potential ceasefire, highlighting the stark realities faced by civilians on the ground.
Jul 8, 2025 • 25min
Meet the newest members of the Order of Canada
Mike Stevens is a renowned harmonica player and founder of ArtsCan Circle, honored for his impactful work with Indigenous communities. He shares his emotional journey with music, highlighting its role in healing and hope for marginalized youth. Stevens's passion for the harmonica intertwined with his dedication to supporting young people is inspiring. The discussion also touches on the significance of recognition, as both he and fellow honoree Cheryl Forchuk reflect on their journeys and the societal issues they aim to change.
Jul 7, 2025 • 25min
Why isn’t ‘enough’ spelled ‘enuf’? The absurdity of English spelling
Gabe Henry, an author focused on linguistic quirks, dives into the perplexing world of English spelling. He shares the historical challenges of simplifying a language filled with silent letters and bizarre pronunciations. From the ambitious spelling reforms proposed by Noah Webster to the absurdity of using numbers for vowels, Henry highlights the struggle for clarity in communication. He discusses how these spelling oddities affect literacy, particularly in diverse communities, and the impact of modern technology on evolving language.
Jul 7, 2025 • 19min
Why Farmers Are Nervous About Canada’s Next Trade Move
Mike von Masso, a food economist at the University of Guelph, dives into the tensions of U.S.-Canada trade negotiations and their implications for agricultural trade. The discussion highlights the precarious nature of supply management, which stabilizes prices for milk, eggs, and poultry. Insightful perspectives from both Canadian and U.S. farmers reveal concerns about market access and the emotional toll of industry consolidation. The potential consequences of changing trade policies are examined, showcasing the critical balance needed to support farmers and consumers alike.
