For a longer weekend listen, we're going back in the archives from November to talk about an issue that's back in the headlines - NATO, and the U.S. concerns that Canada is not paying its fair share. Host David Smith talks to Richard Shimooka, a defence policy expert and a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Punctuality – its definition and importance really depend on who you speak to. A recent study out of the UK shows a generational divide when it comes to tardiness and how it could be perceived by those around us. Host Melanie Ng speaks with peak performance coach and best-selling author, Hina Khan @coachwithhina, about a number of scenarios and why there is a sweet spot when it comes to how you show up both professionally and socially. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

U.S. President Donald Trump has taken the next step in its tariff battle with the world, placing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products from Canada and all other countries.There was even a brief scare that the U.S. would double the tariff on Canada, before cooler heads prevailedBut what impact will these tariffs have on the industry? Are the federal government counter measures enough, and what more do the feds need to do to support businesses and workers who will be hit hard by this move?Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Catherine Cobden, President and CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association to get her thoughts. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

We're going to have a new Prime Minister this week, with no shortage of issues for Mark Carney to face. After Carney won a decisive victory in the Liberal Party leadership race on the weekend, it's expected he will be calling a federal election shortly. What will be the keys to success for the renewed Liberal Party as it faces off against Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives?Host David Smith speaks with liberal strategist Nick McRoberts from Hill & Knowlton about the path ahead in this new era of Canadian politics. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an Infectious Disease Specialist renowned for his insightful commentary during the pandemic, shares his reflections five years after the COVID-19 crisis began. He discusses the early mismanagement of responses, the evolving public trust in health authorities, and the emotional toll on healthcare workers. The conversation highlights both the tragic losses and the advancements in vaccine technology, emphasizing the lessons learned about health equity and public health literacy in the wake of such a transformative global event.

Jon Roe, a Research Associate at the Angus Reid Institute, dives into the legacy of Justin Trudeau, who recently wrapped up his term as Prime Minister. He discusses how public sentiment skewed negative, reflecting on challenges like the pandemic and economic issues. Roe explains recency bias in political perception while comparing Trudeau to Stephen Harper. He highlights Trudeau's mixed legacy—successes like legalizing marijuana versus criticisms on immigration and inflation—illustrating the growing polarization in Canadian politics.

Avery Shenfeld, Chief Economist at CIBC, shares his insights on the volatile economic landscape shaped by unpredictable trade policies. He discusses the challenges economists face forecasting in today's market, emphasizing how fluctuating tariffs impact Canadian exports and labor. The conversation highlights concerns about the automotive supply chain and the limitations of rapid manufacturing changes. Shenfeld also addresses inflation dynamics and the cautious role of the Bank of Canada amid these economic uncertainties.

Dr. Andrea Love, a PhD immunologist and microbiologist, founded immunologic.org to combat health misinformation. In a captivating discussion, she tackles the dangers of vaccine misinformation and the misconceptions surrounding fluoride and raw milk. Love emphasizes the need for evidence-based approaches to public health issues. She also critiques anti-science rhetoric and its impact on trust in health systems, while advocating for systemic reforms to improve overall wellness in the U.S. healthcare landscape. This enlightening conversation is a must-listen!

After more than 9 years leading the country, Justin Trudeau’s time in office is down to days. On Sunday the party will count the votes and announce a new Liberal leader, who will become the next Prime Minister when they are sworn in. Which of the four candidates will win, could there be a surprise finish, how will the transition of power work, and will this spark a snap federal election? Host Cormac Mac Sweeney speaks with Greg MacEachern, a principal at KAN Strategies to find out. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

The word of the week: tariffs.In what's been a confusing back and forth whether or not the tariffs against Canadian goods were on, we learned there was a last minute reprieve on tariffs in the auto sector.The issue has been in the news headlines for months, and now that it's here, what is the fallout?An expert says this situation is definitely unusual – and it’s not over yet.Host Kris McCusker speaks to Joy Nott is Partner, National Tax, Trade and Customs at KPMG Canada. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter