The Decibel

Dr. Jillian Roberts, a psychologist and children's book author, shares valuable insights on navigating back-to-school anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of understanding emotional responses and offers a framework for parents to recognize their children's feelings. The conversation also tackles youth mental health challenges and the impact of new cellphone restrictions in schools. Strategies such as leaving supportive notes and encouraging gradual exposure to fears are discussed, providing practical tips to help children build resilience during this transition.

Jason Kirby, a housing journalist from The Globe, delves into the pressing issue of housing affordability in Canada. He discusses how soaring prices, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, are straining potential buyers. Kirby highlights the slower construction productivity post-pandemic and the impact of inflation on building materials. He also examines the reluctance of baby boomers to sell, creating barriers for younger generations. The conversation paints a stark picture of a challenging market that may hinder homeownership for years to come.

Matt Lundy, an economics reporter for The Globe, delves into Canada's recent decision to cut back on temporary foreign workers. He highlights a dramatic increase in foreign worker permits and the government's aim to reverse these pandemic-era changes. Lundy discusses the implications for businesses, especially those that rely on low-wage labor, and raises concerns about workers' rights amidst stricter regulations. Additionally, he examines how this decision intertwines with broader immigration policy shifts and the ongoing debates about economic growth in Canada.

Tim Kiladze, a financial reporter and columnist for the Globe, delves into TD Bank's recent troubles. He discusses the bank's unprecedented quarterly loss linked to hefty fines over anti-money laundering failures. The conversation reveals how a once-reputable bank has faced a cultural shift, leadership turmoil, and growing regulatory scrutiny. Kiladze highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in restoring investor trust, and he explores TD's strategies to navigate its current challenges in the competitive market.

Bruce Curran, an associate professor of law at the University of Manitoba, sheds light on the ongoing railway labor dispute between major Canadian railways and the Teamsters union. He discusses the federal government's intervention and the immediate halt of freight services. The conversation delves into the significant economic repercussions, particularly for farmers reliant on rail transport. Additionally, Curran highlights worker fatigue and safety concerns, revealing how these issues remain inadequately addressed amid negotiations.

In this engaging discussion, Erica Alini, a personal finance reporter specializing in the impact of inflation on pensions and benefits, sheds light on pressing financial concerns. She explains how inflation indexing affects the purchasing power of pensions and benefits, revealing troubling trends in their adequacy. The conversation also delves into how rising costs impact workplace health benefits and the struggles faced by individuals relying on disability payments. Alini highlights the stagnation of government pensions like OAS and CPP amidst inflation, urging listeners to stay informed.

Ben Kaplan is the general manager of iRun Magazine and Allison Hill is the co-founder of Hill Run Club. They discuss the explosive growth of running, especially after the pandemic, emphasizing its inclusivity and appeal to diverse communities. Tales of camaraderie highlight how running has become a social outlet. The conversation explores marathon culture, detailing the journey towards greater participation, particularly among women. They also touch on the therapeutic benefits of running and initiatives to empower marginalized groups within the running community.

Join Globe reporters Mariya Postelnyak and Colin Freeze as they delve into the dark world of fraudster Arash Missaghi, who eluded justice for years while scamming millions. Listen to the shocking details of how Missaghi's deceit impacted victims like Alan Kats, leading to tragic outcomes. The discussion uncovers the complexities of pursuing fraud cases in Canada and the failures within the legal system that allowed such criminals to thrive. This captivating narrative reveals a web of deceit, crime, and unexpected consequences.

In this engaging discussion, Barry Hertz, film editor at The Globe and Mail, explores the evolving landscape of movie theaters. He reveals how options like 4DX and ScreenX are reshaping the cinema experience, enticing viewers with immersive formats. Hertz also discusses the financial struggles of major chains and the shift towards Premium Large Format screenings. With streaming services on the rise, he sheds light on the industry's challenges and what the future holds for cinema lovers.

A recent investigation by the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab has unveiled an elaborate phishing campaign linked to Russian hackers. They discovered the 'River of Phish' scheme, targeting high-profile individuals like a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine. The podcast dives into the sophisticated tactics used by the Cold River group and their ties to Russian intelligence. It emphasizes the ongoing risks of state-sponsored cyber attacks and provides insights into evolving threats in the realm of digital espionage.