Front Burner

Greg Miller, an investigative foreign correspondent for The Washington Post, and Gerry Shih, the India bureau chief, dive into shocking allegations of India's involvement in transnational repression. They explore claims of the Indian government's orchestrated violence against Sikh activists abroad, including targeted assassination attempts in Canada and other countries. The discussion highlights deteriorating diplomatic ties, the controversial role of Indian politicians like Amit Shah, and the U.S.'s frustrations with India's response to these allegations, painting a picture of escalating tensions.

The podcast dives into the pivotal role of right-wing talk radio in shaping American politics after the September 11 attacks. It highlights how fear and sensationalism fueled newly energized broadcasters, transforming public perception. Topics include Trump's early political ambitions and the cultural shifts that led to his rise. It also examines the divisive impact of the Iraq War and the backlash against dissenting voices like the Dixie Chicks. Finally, the discussion contrasts conservative and liberal media dynamics, illustrating their influence on political discourse leading into the Obama era.

Katie Derosa, a seasoned CBC provincial affairs reporter, delves into the turmoil of B.C.'s upcoming election. She sheds light on the dramatic collapse of the B.C. United party and how it has paved the way for the B.C. Conservative Party and its fiery leader, John Rustad. The conversation navigates controversial comments echoing through the campaign, the challenges of managing public health narratives, and the impact of high-profile figures like Chip Wilson. Plus, the unpredictable dynamics of independent candidates add an extra layer of intrigue to this political race.

Ari Berman, a national voting rights correspondent for Mother Jones and author of Minority Rule, dives into the intricacies of election integrity. He discusses the over 100 lawsuits filed by Republicans aimed at contesting the upcoming election, revealing patterns from the 2020 Stop the Steal movement. Berman also highlights the evolution of voting laws post-Obama, the rise of partisan control in states like Georgia and Texas, and the initiatives Democrats are pursuing to secure voting access. His insights uncover the ongoing battle over electoral trust.

Catherine Cullen, a CBC senior parliamentary reporter and host of CBC Radio’s The House, discusses the escalating tensions between Canada and India after serious allegations against Indian diplomats emerged. These accusations include orchestrating criminal acts against Canada’s Sikh community, triggering public safety warnings. Cullen also sheds light on the unrest within the Liberal Party, where a secret document hints at potential leadership changes amid growing discontent. The diplomatic fallout could reshape the political landscape in both nations.

Hani Mahmoud, an Al Jazeera reporter based in Deir al Balah, shares his firsthand experiences of survival amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He paints a vivid picture of the humanitarian crisis, highlighting the struggles of families coping with displacement and loss. Hani recounts the emotional toll of witnessing mass graves and the fragile daily lives of those facing food and water shortages. His powerful narratives illuminate the profound impact of war on civilians, driving home the urgency of understanding their plight.

Louise Decker, a former PE teacher, shares her experience in a reality TV space travel challenge. Ryan McBride recounts his mental and physical hurdles as a contestant, while Steve Hester humorously discusses his struggles with fitness. Comedy writer Charlie Skelton offers insights into the behind-the-scenes chaos of the show. They all explore the thrill-seeking mindset and the absurdity of auditioning, revealing how trust and authenticity can be distorted in the pursuit of entertainment.

Welcome to the world of conspiracy and paranoia. A horrifying act of domestic terrorism brings right wing radio some unwanted attention, which pushes one fan of the supernatural away from politics, while a pair of anti-government broadcasters dig their heels in.This is episode 3 of The Flamethrowers, the story of how radio energized and then radicalized a conservative base. This series was originally produced in 2021. Hosted by Justin Ling. More episodes are available here.

Dan Beckerman, the producer of the controversial biopic ‘The Apprentice,’ dives into the film's journey from Cannes acclaim to intense backlash. He discusses the complex dynamics between Donald Trump and lawyer Roy Cohn, showcasing how Cohn shaped Trump's ambitions. Beckerman also reveals the film's challenges, including legal threats from Trump's team, and the fine line between fact and fiction in storytelling about powerful figures. The conversation reflects on the evolution of Trump's public persona and its relevance in today's media landscape.

Jennifer Sciubba, a leading political scientist and demographer, discusses the alarming decline in global birth rates and its implications. Canada now boasts a record low fertility rate of 1.3 babies per woman. Sciubba explores the challenges of aging populations, particularly in countries like Japan and Italy. She critiques ineffective pronatalist policies that fail to address women's needs and warns against alarmist narratives that politicize reproduction. The conversation highlights the necessity of holistic approaches to family support and societal values.