The Big Story

It's not the most commonly sought-after item on Facebook, but it's certainly not the least advertised on the platform's feeds either.Advertisements for highly addictive and illegal drugs like cocaine and oxycodone continue to appear on Meta's social platforms, amid their no-tolerance policy for such content and for what they call 'robust' measures to keep them off.The RCMP says it works extensively to intercept online purchases of illegal drugs, but Meta's reliance on AI to regulate advertisement sales and distribution doesn't allow for much policing.Host Maria Kestane speaks to Ben Musset, digital editor for the Toronto Star, and Omar Mosleh, reporter for the Toronto Star to discuss their investigation into Meta's advertising loopholes, and how Canada's most vulnerable could fall victim to the multibillion dollar self-regulating business platform. 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

Join Cormac McSweeney, a Parliament Hill reporter with CityNews, as he delves into the recent MOU signed by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. They discuss the ambitious plans for an independently-funded pipeline and the crucial role of Indigenous co-ownership. Tensions are high as criticism arises from BC and environmentalists, especially after Liberal MP Steven Guilbeault's resignation. Cormac also highlights the feasibility challenges and broader political implications for Carney's government.

It's not completely odd for a former Olympian to return to the limelight years after competing...but rarely is it for allegedly piloting a drug ring comparable to that of El Chapo's.Ryan James Wedding now sits alongside some of America's most dangerous criminals on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for several offences related to drug trafficking and murder. A number of Canadians have been arrested earlier this month in connection to the case, including Wedding's defence lawyer from Brampton, Deepak Paradkar. And the FBI has hiked up the reward for his arrest to $15 million USD. Host Richard Southern speaks to Calvi Leon, a crime reporter for the Toronto Star to break down how a Canadian born in Thunder Bay made his way to the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for allegedly leading one of the most prolific drug trafficking organizations in the world. 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

A recent Leger poll commissioned by OMNI News found that 67% of newcomers believe Canada should admit fewer than 300,000 new immigrants per year, and 4 in 10 say that number should be less than 100,000.The survey was conducted ahead of this month's federal budget announcement when Ottawa announced its plans to reduce new permanent resident visas to 380,000 per year from 2026 to 2028. However, respondents believe granting visas should go hand in hand with ensuring there's enough housing and social supports for people who are already in Canada before more people come in.Host Caryn Ceolin speaks to Teresa Romano, OMNI News reporter for their Italian Bureau to dig into the findings of this year's poll, and discuss whether or not newcomers and immigrants to Canada believe that our immigration system is serving those who need it most. 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

In this engaging discussion, tenant leader Marc Davignon from the Hamilton ACORN Association sheds light on the impacts of Ontario's controversial Bill 60. He shares his experience of being removed from the legislature while protesting the bill. Marc emphasizes how faster evictions could endanger vulnerable groups such as seniors, single parents, and the disabled. He criticizes the lack of public consultation and outlines the harsh provisions that might push good tenants into homelessness, all while landlords face fewer consequences.

Avi Loeb, a renowned theoretical physicist and Harvard professor, joins to discuss the intriguing interstellar visitor 3I/ATLAS. He highlights its peculiar anomalies, which some believe hint at extraterrestrial origins. Loeb explains how the object’s unusual brightness and trajectory provide exciting observations, even suggesting the possibility of technological jets. He urges a targeted search for technosignatures and emphasizes the importance of global cooperation in space defense if this object proves to be artificial. Intriguing possibilities abound!

Brendon Bernard, a senior economist at Indeed Canada, delves into the intriguing rise in seasonal job postings, which are up by 12%. He connects this trend to the overall unemployment rate of 6.9%, particularly highlighting the challenges facing youth job seekers. The conversation also explores shifts from retail to distribution roles due to online shopping surges. Bernard offers valuable job-seeking advice for navigating a tough market and assesses how migration patterns influence recruitment dynamics. Tune in for insights into what it all means for the economy!

In this conversation, Jessica Carswell, Director of Strategic Engagement at Canadian Blood Services, talks about the critical need for plasma in Canada. She explains how plasma is different from whole blood and highlights its essential role in producing life-saving medications. Jessica discusses the alarming shortage of domestic plasma and the growing demand for immunoglobulin therapies. Listeners learn about the donation process, eligibility criteria, and the rewarding community aspect of donating, encouraging everyone to help bolster Canada's healthcare system.

Glen McGregor, a political correspondent for CityNews, analyzes Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent trip to the UAE, aimed at strengthening investment ties. He highlights the controversial absence of discussions on the UAE's alleged arms shipments to Sudan amidst an ongoing war that has claimed thousands of lives. Glen discusses the delicate balance Canada faces between securing foreign investments and maintaining a strong human rights reputation, revealing how this trip could shape Canada’s image globally. He also touches on the cautious language surrounding genocide and its implications for human rights advocacy.

Gary Teelucksingh, co-founder of the Money Wise Institute and author of Roots of Prosperity, dives into the importance of financial literacy. He emphasizes how accessible education can be through simple conversations, starting from any age. Gary urges families to break the taboo around money talks and offers strategies like finding trusted advisors and personalizing financial information. He also highlights that sharing stories can be more impactful than lectures, laying the groundwork for intergenerational wealth and values.