As It Happens

Leonard Lusky, a president at Secretariat.com and longtime associate of legendary jockey Ron Turcotte, teams up with Marta Suarez, a behavioral physiologist from the University of Porto. They dive into the important diplomatic ties between Canada and Germany, especially in light of geopolitical changes. Marta reveals surprising emotional depths in fish, proving they feel more than just fear, but also pleasure. The conversation challenges how we perceive both international relations and the emotional lives of our aquatic friends.

Mikhailo Winitsky, a Sociology professor and former Deputy Minister of Education in Ukraine, reflects on the tragic deaths of journalists in Gaza amid escalating violence. He provides insights on Prime Minister Carney's surprising visit to Ukraine, highlighting the complexities of international support. Marta Urquia shares her experiences as a D.C. parent organizing safety measures for families in a militarized environment, revealing the emotional toll of living under heightened security. The discussion underscores the pressing challenges faced by both media and families in times of conflict.

Jason Kenney, former Alberta Premier and Harper-era cabinet minister, shares his insights on the Conservative Party's current challenges. He discusses Pierre Poilievre's recent by-election victory and the party's struggle to connect with voters after consecutive electoral losses. Kenney highlights the need for strategic communication to engage diverse demographics, particularly women. The conversation also touches on the importance of adapting to shifting political landscapes and the internal dynamics within the party as they navigate a path back to government.

Aaron O'Toole, former leader of the Conservative Party, analyzes Canada's recent tariff cuts and their impact on U.S. trade relations. Dale Sky Jones honors cannabis activist Richard Lee's legacy in the fight for legalization. Retired physician Jeremy Lockwood shares his exciting discovery of a new dinosaur species with a giant sail on its back, while psychologist Sean Kidd discusses a groundbreaking app that assists individuals in distinguishing reality from auditory hallucinations. There's also an amusing anecdote about a 'Bald Fest' celebrating hair loss.

Elian Peltier, a New York Times journalist, shares harrowing accounts from refugee camps in Gaza as families face the threat of impending Israeli attacks. Farhan Jai, co-founder of Speak Up Africa, advocates for the Equal Earth projection map, aiming to correct Africa's representation and highlight its significance. The conversation also touches on a tragic bus crash impacting Afghan repatriates. As the discussion unfolds, themes of resilience, identity, and the humanitarian crises are poignantly explored, making for an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue.

Tim Mack, a Canadian journalist and founder of The Counter Offensive, shares his insights on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He delves into the implications of peace negotiations and the strategic value of Donetsk and Luhansk. The discussion reveals the risks involved in potential territorial concessions and the vulnerability they could create for Ukraine against future Russian invasions. Mack also highlights the emotional and national pride associated with the land, illustrating the complexities of Ukraine’s geopolitical landscape.

Barry Snow shares the emotional toll of awaiting news about his family's home, threatened by wildfires in Newfoundland. Sergeant Brad McLean recounts the gripping rescue of climber Ryan Wardwell, who survived two days trapped near a powerful waterfall, showcasing the heroics of rescue teams. Meanwhile, Texas State Representative Vicki Goodwin discusses the political tensions surrounding redistricting and surveillance, highlighting the precarious blend of political maneuvering and personal safety.

Damien Kurek, the former MP who stepped aside for Pierre Poilievre, shares insights on local voter dynamics and political ambition in Battle River-Crowfoot. Marcel Wilson discusses the harrowing impacts of gun violence, sparked by the tragic death of a young boy, highlighting the urgent need for change. Efrat Machikawa offers a poignant perspective on the protests in Tel Aviv, shaped by her family's ordeal with Hamas. Together, they tackle pressing social issues and personal stories that resonate deeply in today's climate.

We reach former Canadian Ambassador to Russia Jeremy Kinsman for a breakdown of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin’s meeting.Tariffs are keeping Bick's pickles off the shelves of some Canadian retailers … and the company's CEO says that's putting him in a real pickle.  A negotiator from Palau tells us what the collapse of plastics treaty talks in Geneva mean for vulnerable Pacific island nations like hers.A would-be-bride explains what inspired her to go prospecting for her own engagement ring diamond. And why the whole experience really rocked.School is back in LA. And on top of making sure students stay on top of their classwork, a high school teacher is also trying to ease their fears about ICE raids.The inaugural World Humanoid Robot Games kick off in Beijing, showcasing the athletic prowess of robots. And their limitations too -- after one runner's head -- falls off, mid-race. As It Happens, the Friday edition, radio that declares the results of the race null and droid

The journalist who wrote the book on the Satan’s Choice motorcycle gang tells us what’s in store now that the club has decided to make a break with the Hell’s Angels.A Canadian canola farmer says China’s massive tariff on his harvest is more than many western growers can bear. Canada isn’t the only country that’s embraced a full-on mobilization against U.S. tariffs. India is also joining the fray. The Pueblo Nation in New Mexico has had some success in recovering artifacts stolen from them 40 years ago – but say they won’t rest until all their sacred objects are returned.Historians reveal that a Bavarian restaurant may NOT have invented bratwurst sausages. In fact, GASP!, a city farther North was frying up greasy meat-cylinders some 100 years earlier. As It Happens, the Thursday edition, radio that never reveals how the sausage is made.