Front Burner

Katie Strang, a reporter with The Athletic, delves into the ongoing hockey sex assault trial involving five former members of Canada's 2018 gold medal-winning team. She discusses the shocking nature of the allegations and the emotional aftermath faced by the victim. Key topics include the complex legal battles surrounding consent, the significant fallout for Hockey Canada, and the broader implications for hockey culture in Canada. Strang emphasizes the need for education on consent and the darker side of sports that has been exposed through this case.

Rosemary Barton, CBC's Chief Political Correspondent, dives into the recent swearing-in of Prime Minister Mark Carney's cabinet, featuring both new faces and familiar names. She discusses the strategic implications of these appointments and how they reflect the government's priorities. The conversation also touches on a controversial Quebec electoral recount that shifted a seat by just one vote, igniting conspiracy theories about election integrity. Barton emphasizes the need for political collaboration amidst growing misinformation.

Meron Rapoport, a veteran journalist and former head of news at Ha’aretz, discusses Israel's escalating military campaign in Gaza. He reveals the government's plan to annex Palestinian territories amidst a humanitarian crisis. The podcast highlights shifts in U.S.-Israel relations, particularly with Trump's Middle East tour excluding Israel. Rapoport delves into internal divides within Israeli society regarding the conflict, and the potential repercussions for Palestinian nationalism and future peace efforts. It's a compelling look at a deeply complex situation.

Daniel Desrochers, Politico’s international trade reporter, breaks down the complexities of the U.S.-China trade war. He discusses the recent high-stakes face-off in Geneva and the staggering tariffs imposed by both nations. Desrochers explains how these levies are choking off business and impacting industries, especially farmers and small retailers in the U.S. He also sheds light on the intricate web of trade negotiations and how countries like Canada and the UK are responding to shifting trade dynamics.

Salimah Shivji, CBC's South Asia Bureau Chief based in Mumbai, provides critical insights into the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. She discusses the recent surge in violence sparked by a militant attack, highlighting contrasting narratives from both nations. The conversation delves into India's Operation Sindhuar and the serious repercussions of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. Shivji emphasizes the historical complexity of the conflict and the urgent need for dialogue to avert a larger crisis in the region.

In this insightful discussion, Charles Collins, managing editor of The Crux, shares his extensive knowledge on the papal conclave and the selection of the next pope. He highlights the unprecedented diversity of the College of Cardinals, emphasizing the differing priorities between Western and global South cardinals. The tension between continuing Pope Francis' liberal legacy and pursuing more traditional values is palpable. Collins also examines key candidates, including Pietro Perolin, and explores the complexities of papal politics amid significant social challenges.

Aaron Wherry, a senior writer with the CBC’s Parliamentary Bureau, joins to discuss the tense meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump. Their encounter occurs against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions and potential tariffs threatening Canada's film industry. Wherry highlights the unexpected tone of the meeting and its implications for Canada-U.S. relations. The conversation delves into the complexities of negotiating amidst political pressures and the future of trade agreements between the two countries.

Agnès Callamard, the Secretary General of Amnesty International, brings decades of human rights advocacy to the forefront. She discusses the urgent human rights issues facing Canada and the globe, while emphasizing Canada's potential as a model for resistance against rising authoritarianism. The conversation dives into the escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza and Tigray, highlighting the dire need for international intervention. Callamard also critiques U.S. influence on global justice, stressing the importance of resilience and collective action in the fight for human rights.

In a thought-provoking conversation, Alex Shephard, Senior Editor at The New Republic, delves into the tumultuous start of Donald Trump’s second administration. He discusses the surge of executive orders, highlighting their impact on governance and federal agencies. The conversation also touches on immigration reform, revealing how recent policies may erode due process rights for vulnerable communities. Additionally, Shephard analyzes the economic turmoil, shifting global dynamics, and the complicated relationship between Trump and the media, predicting lasting ramifications for America.

Hannah Sampson, a travel reporter with The Washington Post, discusses the evolving landscape of U.S. travel for Canadians. As fears of increased scrutiny at the border grow—ranging from aggressive questioning to potential detainment—travelers are reconsidering their plans. She shares essential tips on preparing for border encounters, the risks tied to political expression on social media, and highlights the significant drop in Canadian tourism to the U.S., revealing the ongoing challenges posed by current political climates.