Front Burner

Karen Hao, a tech journalist and author of "Empire of AI," dives into the intriguing and contentious journey of OpenAI. She discusses the company's meteoric rise and controversial shift from nonprofit to profit, raising ethical questions around AI development. Hao also examines the fierce internal debates on artificial general intelligence and the alarming environmental impacts of AI. Additionally, she highlights the tension between technological advancement and democratic values through the Stargate project, shedding light on the complex implications of these innovations.

Soul Behar Tsalik, a 19-year-old conscientious objector from Tel Aviv, shares his journey of refusing to enlist in the IDF. He reflects on the moral dilemmas that led to his choice and discusses the significant societal pressures faced by young Israelis who oppose military service. Tsalik highlights the stark humanitarian crisis in Gaza, contrasting it with mainstream Israeli claims. His insights reveal the deep emotional cost of dissent and the diverse reactions within Israeli society to the ongoing conflict.

Join Arlene Bynon, a seasoned journalist and radio broadcaster known for her work on Calls from a Killer, and Nathaniel Frum, a writer and producer for CBC's Uncover, as they recount chilling phone calls with Clifford Olson, a convicted serial killer responsible for the deaths of 11 children. They explore Olson's psyche during these unsettling conversations, revealing the eerie dynamic between a reporter and a criminal. This gripping discussion also touches on the ethical dilemmas of reporting on such troubling minds and the haunting realities faced by victims' families.

Evan Dyer, a reporter for CBC’s Parliamentary Bureau specializing in foreign affairs, discusses Canada's shifting stance on recognizing Palestinian statehood. He delves into Prime Minister Mark Carney's proposed conditions for recognition, the complexities of demilitarization, and its potential fallout with Israel. The conversation also covers the controversies surrounding Canadian arms sales to Israel and the impact of these developments on international relations, amidst rising humanitarian crises in Gaza.

Samantha Cole, a journalist with 404 Media, dives into the UK's new Online Safety Act aimed at shielding children from harmful content. She discusses the tricky balance between child safety and civil liberties, highlighting concerns over privacy and censorship. Cole shares insights from her coverage of similar U.S. measures and the challenges of age verification online. Moreover, she emphasizes the need for better education and tools for parents and children, rather than relying solely on automated systems to keep kids safe from the internet's darker corners.

Hamed Aleaziz, an immigration reporter with The New York Times, sheds light on the radical shift in U.S. immigration policy, focusing on the offshoring of detainees to countries like South Sudan. He discusses the shocking case of Tuan Tan Fan and the emotional toll on families torn apart by these actions. The conversations highlight legal challenges faced by deportees and the alarming conditions in facilities like 'American Siberia' and 'Alligator Alcatraz.' Aleaziz further examines the implications of such policies on future migration and citizenship rights.

Joining the discussion is Mark Fawcett Atkinson, a journalist from Canada's National Observer, who dives into the bizarre connection between a British Columbia ostrich farm and widespread anti-vaccine sentiments. He emphasizes the family’s emotional battle against a culling order due to avian flu concerns. The podcast explores how this local crisis catches the attention of right-wing media and conspiracy theorists, underscoring the interplay between public health, misinformation, and grassroots activism. It's a wild ride through the world of farm animals and vaccine skepticism!

Anna Merlan, a senior reporter with Mother Jones specializing in disinformation, dives into the controversy surrounding Donald Trump and the Epstein files. She discusses the backlash from Trump’s supporters after the investigation was dropped, revealing a sense of betrayal. Merlan highlights new revelations about Trump's connections to Epstein, raises questions about what he knew, and examines how conspiracy theories intersect with political strategy. The podcast delves into the complexities of Trump’s relationship with Epstein and the ongoing implications for his political image.

Dan Robson, senior enterprise writer for The Athletic, dives into the not guilty verdict for five former Hockey Canada players in a landmark trial that spanned seven years. He discusses the courtroom drama, including how defense strategies challenged testimonies and the complexities of consent in Canadian law. Robson highlights the emotional weight of the ruling on both witnesses and the community, urging a broader conversation about sexual violence and accountability within sports culture.

Alvin Fiddler, Grand Chief of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation representing 49 Ontario First Nations, dives into the intense Indigenous backlash against recently passed laws aimed at fast-tracking mega projects. He discusses how these laws are seen as violations of treaty rights, sparking major concerns over consent and consultation processes. Fiddler emphasizes the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and genuine respect for Indigenous autonomy, highlighting the challenges and potential legal actions from First Nations to reclaim their rights in development decisions.