The Decibel

Dr. Loredana Marchica, a pediatric psychologist and psychiatrist, sheds light on alarming trends of youth gambling linked to online gaming. She discusses how game mechanics like loot boxes create addictive behaviors, often blurring the lines between gaming and actual gambling. The rising rates of problem gambling among young people in Canada are concerning, as these games exploit biological and psychological factors. Marchica emphasizes the need for awareness, education, and open discussions about gambling risks in families.

Alexandra Posadzki, a financial and cybercrime reporter for The Globe and Mail, dives into the shocking saga of Andean Medjedovic, a math prodigy who became a fugitive after allegedly siphoning $65 million in cryptocurrency. She discusses his rapid rise through academia and subsequent descent into the dark side of decentralized finance. The conversation highlights the controversial philosophy of 'Code is Law' in crypto, the ethical dilemmas surrounding his exploits, and the legal challenges he faces as his story unfolds.

Joining the discussion are Robyn Urback, a current affairs columnist at The Globe, Andrew Coyne, a seasoned columnist, and Gary Mason, also from The Globe. They dive into Pierre Poilievre's surprising electoral loss and the implications for the Conservative Party. Mark Carney's governance style in a minority situation is explored, alongside the need for bipartisan strategies. The NDP's identity crisis and the challenges they face in rebuilding their platform post-election are highlighted, revealing the dynamic political landscape ahead.

Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu festival was supposed to be a celebration of Filipino culture and traditions. Instead, it became a scene of horror on Saturday, after a man accused of driving an SUV into a crowd, killed 11 people and injured dozens more. Police say the youngest victim was five years old; the oldest was 65. The accused has been charged with eight counts of murder.Globe national reporter Nancy Macdonald, based in Vancouver, was on scene on the night of the attack. She brings us stories of eyewitnesses, what we’ve learned about the victims and the suspect and how communities are reeling after one of the darkest days in Vancouver’s history.Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com

On Monday April 28, Canadians voted in another Liberal government.They are heading to the House of Commons with what appeared to be a minority government.The Conservatives gained seats and will form the Official Opposition; however, leader Pierre Poilievre’s seat remained undecided early Tuesday morning.Today, the Globe’s Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife and feature writer Shannon Proudfoot join us from the nation’s capital. They break down the surprises in this close race and what Monday’s results could mean for the direction of the country.Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com 

Join an audio journalist on a road trip across Canada, diving into the vital issues shaping rural lives this election season. From affordability and healthcare to trust in government, hear candid personal stories that go beyond politics. Explore how rural communities grapple with challenges like the carbon tax and disaster recovery. Discover the resilience that binds people together, their unique values, and the pressing need for support systems in First Nations child welfare. This journey reveals the heart and soul of a diverse nation.

With the federal election nearly upon us, we’re bringing you the last edition of Campaign Call before Canadians head to the polls. This week, feature writer Shannon Proudfoot and columnists Robyn Urback and Marsha Lederman discuss how the leaders’ final pitches are sitting with Canadians.Plus, The Globe’s economics reporter Nojoud Al Mallees breaks down the costed platforms of the Liberals and the Conservatives and explains why some people are questioning the math.Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com

Gary Mason, a national affairs columnist at the Globe and Mail, dives into the NDP's precarious position ahead of the federal election. He discusses Jagmeet Singh's efforts to navigate declining support and the party's strategic missteps. The conversation reveals a troubling disconnection between leadership and grassroots members, as well as contrasts between provincial successes and federal struggles. Lastly, Mason highlights the risks of a two-party system, stressing the necessity of diverse political voices in Canada's future.

Tanya Talaga, an Anishinaabe journalist and contributing columnist for The Globe and Mail, shares her insights on Pope Francis's apologies to Indigenous peoples. She discusses the emotional significance of his apology for the Catholic Church's role in the residential school system and the critical responses it received. Talaga explores the complicated journey of reconciliation and the expectations for future actions from the Church and its leadership. Her perspective sheds light on the broader implications for Indigenous communities and the ongoing quest for justice.

Pippa Norman, an innovation reporter for The Globe and Mail, dives into how Canadian businesses are adapting to U.S. tariffs. She highlights companies like Oddburger prioritizing local growth over U.S. expansion. The discussion reveals how a compostable packaging manufacturer and a steel can producer are seizing new opportunities at home. Pippa also sheds light on the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector and how firms balance domestic production with the complexities of trade policies. It’s a fascinating look at resilience amidst uncertainty!