The Decibel

Geoffrey York, Globe correspondent and Africa Bureau Chief, shares his insights from a rare reporting trip to Iran. He discusses the bold defiance of ordinary Iranians, especially women, against strict dress code laws despite government crackdowns. York highlights stories of resistance, including films challenging censorship and the evolving attitudes of Iranian men towards women's rights. This cultural uprising reveals a society quietly rebelling against oppressive laws, showcasing a resilient spirit amid economic hardship and political turmoil.

Chris Hayes, host of MSNBC's All In and author of The Siren's Call, dives into how modern distractions have commodified our attention. He discusses the strategies used by figures like Donald Trump to exploit attention scarcity, likening social media to a slot machine that detracts from meaningful interactions. Hayes emphasizes the therapeutic power of focused thinking in addressing global issues like climate change and critiques the role of tech moguls in shaping public discourse. Ultimately, he advocates for nurturing deeper connections in a fragmented digital landscape.

Alexandra Posadski, a financial and cybersecurity reporter for The Globe, dives into the alarming rise of deepfake scams targeting both individuals and businesses. She discusses how scammers use generative AI to create convincing fake identities, often leading to significant financial losses. The podcast reveals the urgent need for better regulations and offers practical tips, like establishing a family passcode system, to protect against these impersonation scams. Alexandra sheds light on both the dark implications of this technology and emerging solutions to combat these threats.

Hamida Ghafour, The Globe’s Deputy Foreign Editor, provides a deep analysis of the ceasefire in Gaza. She discusses the emotional toll of hostage exchanges that have sparked outrage in Israel. Ghafour delves into the complex political landscape, shedding light on the challenges of sustaining peace amidst ongoing tensions. She explores potential governance solutions for Gaza after the conflict and the implications for regional politics. The podcast highlights the heartbreaking stories of affected families and the fragile hope for future negotiations.

Jeff Gray, an Ontario politics reporter for The Globe and Mail, dives into the complexities of the provincial election. He discusses how the early election call by Premier Doug Ford has disrupted voter engagement. Gray highlights the significant impact of U.S. tariffs and economic pressures on candidates' strategies. Healthcare crises, like staff shortages, also take center stage, along with housing policy challenges that shape public sentiment. Opposition parties must navigate these obstacles to make headway against Ford's controversial government.

Jeffrey Jones, an ESG and sustainable finance reporter for The Globe, dives into the rising concerns surrounding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. He discusses the backlash against DEI initiatives in the U.S. and its influence on Canadian companies, particularly banks, which are reassessing their climate commitments. Additionally, he explores new legislative changes in Canada, like Bill C-59, and the implications of moving towards mandatory sustainability reporting. Will this pressure alter the ESG landscape in Canada?

Chris Wilson-Smith, a trade expert and writer for The Globe and Mail, dives into Canada's trade landscape as U.S. tariffs loom. He discusses the significant barriers Canadian businesses face in diversifying their trade partners, especially smaller firms battling against giants. The complexities of political tensions with countries like India and China are explored. Furthermore, interprovincial trade challenges, particularly in alcohol sales, highlight the regulatory hurdles stifling Canadian growth, while the role of immigrant-led enterprises in the economy is emphasized.

Scaachi Koul, a senior writer and author of "Sucker Punch: Essays," and Haley Mlotek, a noted writer whose work appears in The New Yorker, dive into the emotional rollercoaster of divorce. They share personal experiences, shedding light on the millennial perspective of navigating separation. Their conversation touches on the emotional labor of writing personal narratives, the influence of art on their craft, and the societal implications of being a divorcee. The blend of humor and reflection adds depth to their discussion about identity and relationships.

Mark MacKinnon, a senior international correspondent for the Globe, dives into the recent shift in U.S.-Russia relations following Trump's surprising call with Putin. He highlights Ukraine's unexpected sidelining in peace talks and the implications for its future as the war's anniversary approaches. As tensions escalate, MacKinnon discusses challenges Ukraine faces in securing U.S. support amid changing political dynamics. The geopolitical landscape is evolving, with NATO and European nations left to grapple with the ramifications of reduced American backing.

Dr. Kelsey Ioannoni, a critical health sociologist and fat studies scholar, dives into the complexities of weight and health. She challenges the conventional Body Mass Index (BMI), discussing its historical shortcomings and the rise of the Body Roundness Index (BRI). The conversation highlights the biases plus-sized individuals face in Canadian healthcare, emphasizing the need for respectful, holistic care. With personal stories, Ioannoni calls for a shift in how we view health, advocating for understanding beyond mere numbers.