The Decibel

Jennifer Yang, a health sciences reporter for The Globe, delves into the remarkable story of Maryam Fatima, who was born with hemimegalencephaly. Yang shares insights from medical experts who performed a groundbreaking surgery to disconnect part of Maryam's brain in a life-saving effort. The podcast reveals the emotional journey of Maryam's family, their immigration from India to Canada, and the innovative treatments they pursued. Listeners are taken through the challenges of her early battles with severe seizures and her inspiring path to recovery.

Jason Kirby, a staff reporter at The Globe’s Report on Business, delves into the significant increase in U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs. He discusses the dramatic implications for Canadian producers, with one stating that their American business has become ‘unviable.’ Kirby also examines the potential ripple effects on consumer prices and jobs, alongside the strategic motivations behind Trump's decisions. Additionally, he highlights Canada’s retaliatory measures and the brewing tensions that could escalate into trade wars.

Joining is Jeff Gray, a Globe and Mail reporter specializing in Ontario politics. He discusses the implications of the recent push to fast-track infrastructure projects across Canada amid ongoing trade tensions. Gray highlights the controversial nature of Bill 5 in Ontario and the backlash from Indigenous nations and conservation groups. He explains how the rush for approvals could inadvertently lead to delays and civil unrest, emphasizing the importance of genuine consultation with Indigenous communities to avoid escalating tensions.

Alanna Smith, a health reporter for The Globe based in Calgary, dives into the legal battle surrounding Alberta's Bill 26, which restricts gender-affirming health care for transgender youth. She discusses the Canadian Medical Association's constitutional challenge against the bill, calling it a "moral crisis" for doctors. Alanna delves into the ethical concerns posed by the legislation, the rationale of the Alberta government, and discusses the impact of such laws on transgender youth's well-being and access to necessary treatments.

In this engaging discussion, Alexandra Posadzki, a financial and cybercrime reporter at The Globe and Mail, interviews Aubrey Cottle, a former member of Anonymous facing legal challenges. They explore how the hacker group's early activism evolved into associations with toxic online culture and far-right movements. Cottle reflects on the unexpected political fallout from their actions, grappling with guilt over their role in amplifying misinformation during pivotal elections. This conversation reveals a deep dive into the darker side of the internet's influence on real-world politics.

Ivan Semeniuk, science reporter for The Globe, dives into the intriguing world of paleontology as he discusses a fascinating fossil discovery in Morocco believed to be a new mosasaur species. He unpacks the controversy surrounding its authenticity, highlighting the unusual tooth structure that has some scientists questioning its legitimacy. Semeniuk also touches on the rivalries within the paleontological community and the critical nature of provenance in fossil finding, painting a vivid picture of science's ongoing debates.

Patrick White, a water reporter for The Globe and Mail, delves into the urgent issue of ‘forever chemicals’ in Canadian drinking water. He highlights alarming test results from Prince Edward Island, where levels exceed health recommendations. White explains the health risks associated with these hazardous compounds and the recent updates to Canada’s water standards. He also contrasts PEI's proactive measures with the slower responses of other provinces, emphasizing the importance of transparency and stringent guidelines in protecting public health.

Stephanie Levitz, a senior reporter at The Globe and Mail, shares insights on the significance of King Charles III's throne speech marking the opening of Canada’s 45th Parliament. She discusses how the speech reaffirms Canada’s sovereignty amid U.S. tensions and highlights Liberal promises like tax cuts and infrastructure approvals. Levitz also comments on Prime Minister Carney’s strategic move in inviting the king and the potential impact on public engagement. The conversation continues with speculation on Carney’s upcoming performance in his first question period.

Mariya Postelnyak, a consumer affairs reporter for The Globe and Mail, sheds light on how Canadian small businesses are grappling with U.S. tariffs linked to China. She discusses the challenging landscape these businesses face, especially post-COVID-19. From navigating price hikes and operational hurdles to employing inventive strategies like stockpiling and adapting supply chains, Mariya reveals the resilience of entrepreneurs amid trade uncertainties. Her insights expose the delicate balance between competition and survival in a complex global economy.

Carolyn Whitzman, an adjunct professor and senior housing researcher at the University of Toronto, discusses Canada’s pressing housing crisis. She highlights Prime Minister Mark Carney’s ambitious plan to build millions of affordable homes using modular construction. The conversation analyzes historical housing policies from the 1940s and explores innovative solutions to overcome challenges in the current market, including zoning laws and rising costs. Whitzman emphasizes the need for collaboration among different government levels to create sustainable housing solutions.