The Decibel

The podcast discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and the potential pitfalls of technological advancements. It focuses on Maria Ressa's experiences with social media manipulation and the parallels between AI and past tech revolutions. The conversation highlights the need for accountability, protection from harms, and the power of civic engagement in navigating the challenges posed by unregulated technologies.

Columnist Marsha Lederman discusses the impact and legacy of celebrated Canadian author Alice Munro. Topics include exploring Munro's profound influence through award-winning short stories, reflecting on her writing and emotional depth, and recommendations for newcomers to her impactful storytelling.

Adrian Morrow, The Globe's U.S. correspondent, discusses Canada's preparations for a possible second Trump term, highlighting Team Canada's strategic engagement with U.S. politicians to safeguard trade interests. The podcast explores the economic ties between the nations and the diplomatic efforts to maintain strong relationships amidst political changes.

Kelly Cyderman, The Globe's Alberta and energy reporter, discusses the potential of hydrogen trains to replace diesel-fueled locomotives in Canada. The podcast explores the process of converting hydrogen into electricity and water, the challenges of creating green hydrogen, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector. It also touches upon the global impact of hydrogen trains and the role they could play in Canada's clean energy transition.

Kelly Grant, The Globe's national health reporter, discusses how nurse practitioners are being utilized to address Canada's primary care crisis. Topics include the role of nurse practitioners in providing primary care, funding models, Alberta's new program for nurse practitioners, and strategies to overcome the shortage of primary care providers in Canada.

The Globe's real-estate reporter Rachelle Younglai delves into Canada's housing affordability problem, exposing the gap between affordable housing definitions and renter realities. Analyzing the Apartment Construction Loan Program, she uncovers the pitfalls and concerns with the program's affordability criteria, shedding light on the challenges renters face in accessing truly affordable housing.

Exploring the completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project in Canada, its cost increase to $34 billion, potential buyers, indigenous stakeholder interest, environmental concerns, and the balancing act with clean energy objectives.

The podcast discusses Israel's military invasion of Rafah, escalating tensions despite ceasefire talks with Hamas. The chapters delve into the impact on civilians, the challenges of negotiating hostage releases, US involvement, and the need for fresh leadership in the region.

Financial reporter Tim Kiladze discusses TD Bank's alleged involvement in a $653 million money-laundering and drug-trafficking operation. The podcast explores TD's anti-money-laundering issues, regulatory challenges, and the implications for the bank and its customers. The complex web of international money laundering schemes connected to Mexican cartels, Chinese criminal rings, and Russian spies is also investigated.

175 countries are negotiating a UN treaty to reduce plastic pollution, facing hurdles like disagreements on production cap. Wendy Stueck explains treaty impact and balancing plastic use with environment. Explore plastic history, global production surge, and urgent need for UN treaty to manage pollution. Canada's challenges in managing plastic waste and legal debates on plastic regulation are also discussed.