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Front Burner

Latest episodes

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Aug 14, 2024 • 24min

Why is ISIS seeing a resurgence?

Recent arrests in Canada highlight a concerning trend of ISIS's resurgence. The group has adapted, moving from territorial control to a decentralized network, using funding through taxation and extortion. Youth radicalization is on the rise, with plots targeting large events like concerts being foiled. Additionally, ISIS employs cutting-edge digital propaganda, leveraging social media to reach potential recruits. This evolving landscape poses significant challenges in countering their influence and ideology.
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Aug 13, 2024 • 29min

Canada's news outlets are struggling. Should Ottawa save them?

In this engaging discussion, journalists Justin Ling, a contributing columnist for the Toronto Star, and Paul Wells, a seasoned writer with a long history in Canadian publications, dive into the struggles of Canadian news outlets. They dissect the impact of Meta's news ban, leading to layoffs and news deserts. The duo also critiques government efforts, including the controversial Google-Canada news deal, questioning whether financial support is a boon or a curse for public trust in journalism. The future of reporting in the digital age hangs in the balance.
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Aug 12, 2024 • 30min

Is AI a bubble that's about to burst?

Paris Marx, an author and host known for exploring the intersection of technology and society, delves into the current state of generative AI. He discusses the initial hype around tools like ChatGPT and contrasts it with a sobering reality of stagnation and profitability concerns. The conversation highlights trust issues due to inaccuracies in AI outputs, the environmental cost of data demands, and echoes of past tech bubbles. Marx urges a deeper consideration of AI's actual value amid shifting corporate priorities, warning of the potential fallout from a bubble burst.
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Aug 10, 2024 • 23min

Weekend Listen: Putin's Murders from Tortoise

Giles Whittell, a journalist investigating the deaths of Putin's opponents, joins Alexei Navalny, a once-notable rival allegedly murdered in an Arctic labor camp. They delve into the chilling trend of political murders during Putin's regime, exploring why so many dissenters have met tragic ends. The conversation sheds light on the perils surrounding those who oppose power in Russia, the shadowy tactics of the KGB, and the unsettling culture of repression that has gripped the nation under Putin's rule.
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Aug 9, 2024 • 28min

How anti-migration riots swept the UK

Freelance journalist Zoë Grünewald, known for her insights on social issues, discusses the alarming rise of anti-immigrant riots in the UK. She highlights how a tragic stabbing incident sparked chaos and fueled far-right sentiments. Misinformation played a crucial role in escalating tensions, as social media became a tool for mob violence against asylum seekers. Zoë also delves into government responses and community resilience, contrasting the riots with vibrant anti-racism protests that celebrated diversity amidst this turmoil.
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Aug 8, 2024 • 21min

Why are so many Toronto condos sitting empty?

John Palaslis, president of Realosophy, dives deep into Toronto's beleaguered condo market, highlighting the perplexing trend of empty units amid a housing crisis. He discusses the significant plunge in sales, driven by high prices and investor behavior. Palaslis also explores the challenges of high inventory and stagnant prices, stressing the need for government solutions to bridge the gap between population growth and housing availability. His insights shed light on the shifting motivations of buyers and the complexities facing first-time homeowners.
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Aug 7, 2024 • 26min

The ‘New Right’ wants revolution. Can J.D. Vance deliver it?

J.D. Vance, a Republican vice-presidential candidate and key figure in the New Right movement, discusses the radical shift in American conservatism. He explores the movement's ideological complexities and its ambitious plans for governance, like Project 2025, which aims to replace experts with loyalists. Vance reflects on the powerful ties between politics and technology that have shaped his career, and delves into how childhood experiences have influenced his political identity. The conversation raises pressing questions about the future of democracy in America.
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Aug 6, 2024 • 31min

Olympic boxing and sex testing’s fraught history

Imane Khelif, a cisgender boxer from Algeria, reflects on the fallout from her recent 46-second match against Italy’s Angela Carini, which fueled misinformation about her gender. The discussion dives into the fraught history of sex testing in women’s sports, exposing invasive practices and challenging binary notions of gender. Alongside Rose Eveleth, Khelif examines controversies like that of Caster Semenya and the complexities of gender identity in Olympic boxing, emphasizing the urgent need for a more nuanced understanding in sports.
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Aug 5, 2024 • 39min

Tested: tracing the surprising 100-year history of sex testing in elite sports

Explore the intense history and ongoing debate around sex testing in women’s sports. Discover the inspiring journey of Christine Boma, a young Namibian athlete overcoming personal and societal challenges to shine at the Tokyo Olympics. Delve into the ethical dilemmas athletes face regarding testosterone regulations and how these impact their careers and identities. Uncover the broader implications of fairness and discrimination in competitive athletics, sparking a crucial conversation about reform in the sports world.
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Aug 3, 2024 • 12min

Weekend Listen: Summer and Simone hit the gold mine

Olympic superstar Simone Biles shares insights into her incredible journey, bravely addressing the haters while clinching gold. The discussion dives into the nuances of representation in gymnastics and how Carnival culture intertwines with sports. Listeners also get a taste of the viral appeal of a Turkish marksman, plus a special mention of Soca queen Alison Hinds, who reveals her love for gymnastics. The excitement of Olympic victories is palpable, showcasing the dedication and emotion behind each medal ceremony.

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