The Decibel

Jennifer Yang, a Health Science reporter for The Globe, and Muzna Nafees, mother of baby Maryam Fatima, share an incredible survival story. Maryam was born with hemimegalencephaly, facing life-threatening seizures. The discussion dives into the groundbreaking surgical procedure performed at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by her family, and the innovative neurointervention techniques employed to save her life. Muzna's heartfelt reflections on the journey add a deeply personal touch to this medical miracle.

Kathryn Blaze Baum, an investigative reporter at The Globe and Mail, delves into the troubling black market surrounding hacked Meta accounts. She reveals how users struggling to recover their accounts are often entangled in a web of brokers who offer expedited access for a fee. Kathryn discusses personal stories of phishing scams and the frustrations of business owners losing their accounts. She also touches on Meta’s efforts to crack down on these practices and the ever-pressing need for improved account security measures.

Dr. Loredana Marchica, a pediatric psychologist specializing in youth gambling at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, dives into the alarming intersection of gaming and gambling. She discusses how online games, particularly loot boxes, mimic gambling mechanics, luring younger players into risky behaviors. Marchica highlights the psychological impact of reward systems and the role of social media in normalizing gambling concepts. Family communication and education on gambling risks are vital as children navigate this blurred landscape, making awareness and prevention key in combating this growing issue.

Chris Hannay, a seasoned healthcare business reporter at The Globe and Mail, delves into the chaotic landscape of Canada’s fragmented medical records system. He highlights the struggles patients face in accessing their own data and the inefficiencies that plague healthcare providers. Hannay explores potential solutions for better interoperability, criticizes the dominance of certain electronic record companies, and discusses how Canada's system compares to those in Australia and the EU, all while emphasizing the urgent need for reform to improve patient care.

Sara Mojtehedzadeh, an investigative reporter at The Globe focused on immigration and refugees, dives into the controversial Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act. She explains its proposed enhancements to law enforcement powers and significant changes to asylum procedures. Key topics include the one-year filing deadline for refugee claims and the implications for international students. Mojtehedzadeh raises concerns from advocates about potential human rights impacts and critiques the bill's effectiveness in addressing immigration backlogs.

Ivan Semeniuk, a science reporter for The Globe and Mail, delves into a captivating fossil discovery in Morocco that may represent a new species of mosasaur. This find has sparked a fierce debate among paleontologists regarding its authenticity, with skepticism coming especially from a team in Alberta. The discussion highlights the complexities of verifying fossil legitimacy amidst claims of forgery. Ivan also sheds light on the historical rivalries in paleontology and the implications of these controversies on scientific reputations.

Mariya Postelnyak, a consumer affairs reporter at The Globe and Mail, breaks down the surprising stability of consumer prices despite recent trade tariffs. She discusses how businesses have managed to keep prices in check through strategic sourcing and inventory management. The conversation touches on why some sectors have remained unaffected while anticipating potential price hikes this holiday season. With a focus on the intricate relationship between tariffs and consumer behavior, it's a fascinating look at what might happen next!

In this discussion, Jason Kirby, a seasoned business reporter for The Globe and Mail, dives into the recent Air Canada flight attendants' strike. He highlights key issues like ground pay and the implications of a new labor agreement. Kirby elaborates on how governmental interventions shaped the outcome and explores the potential ripple effects for future labor disputes. Plus, he examines the strike's impact on travelers and the ongoing challenges in restoring normal operations for the airline, all while navigating heightened economic pressures.

Samantha Edwards, an online culture reporter for The Globe, dives into the fascinating world of Wikipedia, a platform renowned for its altruistic volunteer editors. She discusses the motivations driving these contributors and the unique community dynamics that foster collaboration. Edwards highlights the challenges posed by AI to Wikipedia’s integrity and its future, while also arguing that immersing oneself in Wikipedia can promote knowledge and curiosity. Plus, she shares intriguing anecdotes about quirky historical events found in its vast database.

Catherine Blaise Baum, an investigative reporter for The Globe and Mail, unveils the shocking reality of nearly 150 Canadians detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She shares heartbreaking stories, including the plight of toddlers in inhumane conditions. Conversations also include the implications of these detentions, a critical look at Canada’s insufficient governmental response, and the troubling treatment of detainees within U.S. facilities. Baum's insights reveal a pressing need for action and greater transparency.